Dr. Vera Marie Stefanac MD (nee Prchalova), 78, died at her home in Tavares, FL on October 6, 2022. She is survived by her husband, Martin, daughters Eva and Helena, brothers Jan and Franta. Vera was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia in 1944. She grew up in a house that valued education and sports. A fierce competitor, she excelled at sprinting, basketball, and heptathlon in the Czech state athletics programs. In addition to receiving a Bachelors in Nursing, she went on to complete her Medical Degree in 1970 from Charles University in Plzen, Czechoslovakia.
In the pursuit of a better life for herself and her daughter, she emigrated to Canada, helped by her younger brother, Jan Prchal, in 1974. She expressed her gratitude throughout her life for his assistance in helping her come to North America. Dr. Vera had a successful career as an OB/GYN physician in the United States with a thriving practice for 25+ years. A lover of learning, Vera completed her MBA in 2001, and self studied Spanish and piano throughout her adult life.
She was known by her colleagues and family for her constant energy, drive for success, and passionate advocacy for women. Dr. Vera was also an accomplished chef and had many devoted fans of her apple strudel and strawberry dumplings. She will especially be remembered for her fiery spirit and infectious laugh.
A graveside service to honor her memory will be held on October 28, 2022 at 1pm at Mt Pleasant Cemetery in Seattle, WA. In remembrance of Dr. Vera's life, the family asks that donations be made to Cure PSP (curepsp.org) in her name.
All are welcome to sign the online guestbook below and add any messages or stories for the Stefanac family.
