Stephen Orova

During WW2, Stephen and his family lived under Nazi rule until the Soviets set up a communist government after the war. Stephen’s family lost all their property under communist rule and Stephen moved to Budapest to follow his passion in sports. Stephen trained hard and became a world class athlete, participating in many sports, including being offered a position on the Hungarian national soccer team. His love of the grace, teamwork, and effort required in the sport of rowing won his commitment, and eventually, he earned a spot on the team representing Hungary in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.

After the Olympics, Stephen’s dislike for communism lead him to participate in the 1956 Hungarian uprising against the Soviet backed government. When the uprising was crushed, Stephen was labeled a dissident by the government, and he had to flee Hungary to avoid execution. He fled with several friends, all except Stephen, were killed by the Soviet backed government forces. Upon reaching freedom in Austria, Stephen spent several years traveling around Europe, studying new cultures and learning six languages.

Stephen met his wife, Yvonne Boonacker, while teaching rowing in Geneva Switzerland. After the two married, emigrated to New York in 1965 where their first son, Bill, was born. In 1967 they had a second son, also named Steven.

During that time, Stephen stared a photography business but eventually followed his passion for rowing and became a respected rowing coach. Over the following decades, Stephen would coach many successful rowing teams including at Boston University, Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan University, and finally, Drexel University. He also briefly coached the Italian Olympic team as well as several U.S. championship teams. He also served as commodore for the Schuylkill Navy.

Back in the 1970’s, Stephen’s dedication to youth and education lead him to join the staff at YMCA Camp Sloane in Lakeville CT. Over his 43 summers at Camp Sloane, he touched the lives of many with his welcoming, supportive approach and genuine ability to connect with people. He introduced many young campers to the sport of rowing while there, many who continue to row to this day.

Stephen passed away in his sleep on May 22, 2019 due to complications with an infection. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and three grandchildren.