Roman Demkiw, 79, Passes Away in Hartley

Longtime Detroit resident and U.S. Army veteran is survived by wife, son, and four grandchildren.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Roman Demkiw, a 79-year-old man who was born in Germany and spent much of his life in the United States, passed away on February 3, 2026 in Hartley, Iowa. Demkiw served in the U.S. Army for two years overseas during the Vietnam War and later worked as a salesman for a local media group in Detroit, Michigan. He is survived by his wife Cynthia, son Alexander, four grandchildren, and other family members.

Why it matters

Demkiw's life story reflects the experiences of many immigrants and veterans who made their homes in the United States, contributing to their local communities over decades. His passing marks the end of an era for his family and the Detroit community where he lived and worked.

The details

Roman Demkiw was born on August 6, 1946 in Murnau, Germany to Elias 'Ilko' and Veronica (Kolodziejczk) Demkiw. He spent his youth in the United States, settling in Detroit, Michigan and attending Hamtramck High School, where he was fluent in English, Ukrainian, and Polish. Demkiw served in the U.S. Army from August 1967 to August 1970, earning several medals including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Good Conduct Medal. After his military service, Demkiw married Cynthia Dronka in 1976 and worked as a salesman for a local media group in Detroit until his passing.

  • Roman Demkiw was born on August 6, 1946 in Murnau, Germany.
  • Demkiw served in the U.S. Army from August 1967 to August 1970.
  • Demkiw married Cynthia Dronka on March 25, 1976 in Mt. Clemons, Michigan.
  • Demkiw passed away on February 3, 2026 at the age of 79 in Hartley, Iowa.

The players

Roman Demkiw

A 79-year-old man who was born in Germany, served in the U.S. Army, and worked as a salesman in Detroit, Michigan.

Cynthia Demkiw

Roman Demkiw's wife, who survives him along with their son and grandchildren.

Alexander Demkiw

Roman and Cynthia Demkiw's son, who survives his father.

Stephanie Kwietniewski

Roman Demkiw's sister, who survives him along with her husband Michael.

Michael Kwietniewski

Stephanie Kwietniewski's husband, who survives Roman Demkiw.

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The takeaway

Roman Demkiw's life and service to his country as an immigrant and veteran reflects the diverse experiences that have shaped communities across the United States. His passing marks the end of an era for his family and the Detroit community where he lived and worked for decades.