Dzidra (Mazjanis) Apinis, 89, of Storrs, passed away on October 3, 2026.

Dzidra was born in Valle, Latvia, the daughter of Martins and Zelma Mazjanis.

At the age of 7, her family left Latvia in the dark of night, during WWII, to seek transport at the Liepaja Port on the Baltic Sea. They were able to board an overcrowded army boat to Germany. In 1950, the family was sponsored to move to Willimantic.

In 1951, Dzidra met the love of her life, Valdis, on her walk to school. Years later she attended Bryant College where she received an associate’s degree in medical secretarial studies.

Dzidra and Valdis married in 1960 and settled in Vernon where they raised their 4 children frequently travelling to many destinations, most notably, Popham Beach. Following retirement, their travel expanded to include winters in Florida.

Dzidra enjoyed sewing and making clothes for her children. Outfits ranged from Halloween costumes to ensembles worn in fashion shows and dance recitals. Her other creative pursuits included macrame, growing African violets, baking, making pottery, and creating photo collages from pictures she had taken. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in activities. In her youth, she participated in badminton and was a majorette. Later she was involved in exercise classes and country line dancing. Dzidra enjoyed Latvian Ladies Lunch and was an active participant in park and Senior Center activities, often dressing up for themed events.

Her happiest times were spent with family, friends and the Latvian community.

Dzidra was predeceased by her husband, Valdis; sister, Aisma Mazjanis; brothers-in-law, John and Charlie Apinis; and sisters-in-law, Patricia and Johnnie Apinis.

She was survived by her children Andrew (Donna) Apinis, Laura Apinis (Susan Ewart), Ronald (Robin) Apinis and John (Wendy) Apinis; nephews, Erik (Jennifer) Apahnis, Bryan (Kathryn) Apinis; niece, Marta (Adam) Meyers; sister-in-law, Kathleen Apinis; grandchildren, Heather, Jason, Evan, Dylan, Brody, Caden and Reese; and great grandchild, Aurora Rodegher.

Dzidra’s family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 9:30-10:30 am at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic, with her funeral service beginning at 10:30. Burial to follow at the New Willimantic Cemetery, Willimantic.

In lieu of flowers, please send support to the American Cancer Society.