Honoring Dr. Vytautas Uzgiris

Each of us has a hidden hope that we will be remembered when we’re gone and that future generations will see that our time here made a difference. Extraordinary people never speak of this. They travel the paths of life and, with their gentle glances and genuine goodness, touch us and change our lives without us even knowing.  It is only after they are gone, that we recognize their footsteps alongside the paths of our own lives.

Vytautas Uzgiris was such an individual. He passed away suddenly in Kaunas, Lithuania on June 25, 2006.

Dr. V. Uzgiris in Kaunas, Lithuania

Vytautas Uzgiris was born in 1931 in the Taurage region of Lithuania. In 1944, he and his family fled to Germany and came to the United States in 1950. He was a doctor of physiology working in research at the Harvard School of Public Health until 1986. Dr. Uzgiris also helped edit P. Cepenas’ book “Modern Times Lithuanian History” completing the second volume upon the author’s death.

Dr. Uzgiris was the husband of dr. Ina Cepenaite-Uzgiriene, brother of Birute Uzgiryte-Jasaitiene, Sarunas, Egidijus, and Otilija Uzgiryte-Barkauskiene, beloved uncle and cousin. He was an active member of both his church choir and the Lithuanian American Community Worcester, MA Chapter, as well as a frequent supporter of cultural and charitable organizations. Although he lived in the United States and in Lithuania, his heart was always, first and foremost, Lithuanian.

As the Lithuanian Foundation celebrates 45 years of continuous support to Lithuanian undertakings, we are reminded of the many people who, above all, loved their country and their heritage. Each sparked a renewed energy in our efforts. Combined, they become the moving force that has kept the Foundation’s torch lit and burning bright.

Dr. Vytautas Uzgiris was such force. For this, we honor him.