Victor Woltornist, 97, of Toms River, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026.

Born on December 18, 1928, in the small town of Voronovica, Ukraine, Victor was the son of Anton and Victoria Woltornist. His early life was marked by the turmoil of World War II, during which he and his family lived in Poland, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Germany in efforts to escape communism. In late 1949, sponsored by a Russian immigrant, they immigrated to the United States, settling in Freehold, New Jersey.

From 1951 to 1953, Victor served honorably in the Korean War as part of a Military Intelligence Unit. Upon his discharge, he earned his U.S. citizenship and initially worked as a mechanic before pursuing higher education at New York University (NYU), where he trained to become a mechanical engineer.

Victor's professional career began in June 1957 at the Martin Aircraft Company in Baltimore, Maryland. He soon transitioned to Lockheed Corporation, where he dedicated his talents until his retirement in 1990. In 1983, he was honored with the prestigious Robert E. Gross Award as Engineer of the Year, recognizing his groundbreaking achievements in shock and vibration analysis of advanced structures and his innovative application of new materials.

In June 1957, Victor married Svetlana "Lana" Korsky in Canada. Together, they raised their family primarily in Bridgewater, New Jersey, while spending most summer vacations at their beloved lake house in Raymond, Maine. It was there that their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren created their fondest memories—fishing off the dock, savoring fresh lobsters, and enjoying swimming and boating on the lake.

Victor was a kind, caring, gentle man who loved his family deeply and cherished the simple joys of life, leaving a lasting legacy of resilience, dedication, and warmth.

He was predeceased by his parents, Anton and Victoria. Victor is survived by his loving wife, Lana; his sons, Alexander (Kelly) and Gregory (Maria); his nine grandchildren, Steven, Father Alexei, Ryan, Katarina, John, Gregory, Rebecca, Christopher, and Mary; his eight great-grandchildren; and extended family.

Funeral arrangements and services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a veterans' organization or engineering scholarship fund in Victor's memory.