Virginia Beach—Michael Leon Brodsky, son of the late Leon and Katherine Brodsky, was born December 19, 1947 in Yedrovo, Russia. When he was eight months old, his family moved to Odessa, Ukraine, where he lived until 1989. He served in the Soviet Army as a meteorologist, stationed in Siberia for most of his service. His life was filled with many challenges, including three bouts of cancer, but he faced them with admirable strength and courage.
Misha, as he was lovingly known by friends and family, married his devoted wife, Inna, on August 1, 1979 and lovingly raised two children with her in Odessa, Ukraine. In 1986, only three weeks after his youngest daughter was born, Misha was sent to Chernobyl, where he bravely assisted in the clean-up efforts of the nuclear disaster.
Misha was a very learned and talented man and was self-taught; a jack-of-all-trades with many passions, some turned into hobbies and some into careers. He worked as an electrician for the police department, and as a photographer in restaurants and on movie sets. His passion for and knowledge of astronomy led him to lead a workshop for children in an observatory in Odessa. He was a gifted artist who created beautiful pieces, mostly oil paintings; he had a beautiful singing voice and took part in many events and ceremonies. He wrote beautiful poetry that brought tears to our eyes. He was a talented carpenter and handyman who turned homes into works of art. He was an avid reader, his homes filled with books, and he loved to share his vast knowledge with others.
Misha immigrated to the United States in 1990 with his wife, children, and mother-in-law and settled in Tidewater. He reunited with his mother and his brother’s family a year later when they also immigrated to the same area. Misha loyally worked at Hodges Ferry Townhomes for 29 years up until his death. Retirement was not an option for him. He was a hardworking and loyal man, and his influence will forever be felt in the lives of all who knew him. He was loved by many because of his witty sense of humor, his generous spirit, and his loyal nature.
Misha was a man of strong faith, and he taught us the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. He was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved, even if it meant working seven days a week. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world and he mentioned this to everyone he knew.
Misha passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at his home in Virginia Beach at the age of 74, just shy of his 75th birthday.
Misha’s memory will forever be cherished in the lives of his wife, Inna; his children Alina Brodsky Vaisman (Daniel) of Rosh HaAyin, Israel and Irina Brodsky Blankenship (Kyle) of Virginia Beach; his loving grandchildren Noya, Miya and Matan; his favorite aunt Ludmilla Romkina of Khahovka, Ukraine and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends from around the world, including the U.S., Israel, Australia, Ukraine, and Canada. He will be dearly missed by them all.
A graveside service was held at Hebrew Cemetery. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.