Constantin Cojocaru, Moldova’s oldest citizen and last Romanian WWII veteran, died
Constantin Cojocaru, the oldest citizen of the Republic of Moldova and one of the last surviving veterans of World War II, passed away at the age of 106. He endured many challenging moments in history, including war, deportations, and changes in government, yet he always upheld his faith in national values and dreamed of a united Moldova and Romania.
Constantin Cojocaru was born in Greater Romania and served as a radio operator in the Romanian Army. Throughout the war, he fought alongside both the Axis Powers and the Soviet Union, adapting to the changing circumstances. In 1949, after the conflict, he and his family were deported to Siberia, where they were labeled as "kulak" by the Soviet regime. Despite the hardships of exile, he persevered, worked tirelessly, and raised four children, two of whom were born during their deportation.
Cojocaru led an active life; he worked as a driver, enjoyed hunting until the age of 94, and rode a bicycle until he was 96. In an interview given at the age of 105, he attributed his longevity to regular exercise, simple nutrition, and healthy living in the Codru region.
"My grandmother lived for 99 years and 6 months, and I prayed to God to outlive her, and here I am, having surpassed her," he said last fall.
His final wish was to see the Republic of Moldova united with Romania in a shared European family. "Maybe then I will die, when we unite," he expressed.
The Parliament Speaker, Igor Grosu, announced Cojocaru's passing, offering condolences and gratitude. "I had the great honor of meeting him personally and learning from him about love for his nation and country. I visited Mr. Constantin for the last time on his birthday, February 2, when he turned 106. We discussed the situation in Moldova and the world, and he told me that his greatest desire was for peace and to witness Moldova joining the great European family," the Parliament Speaker stated.
Just months before his death, Constantin Cojocaru welcomed us into his home. At the age of 105, he spoke clearly and thoughtfully about war, deportations, and the ideals that guided his life.
Report from September 2024:
