Maria-Dana Tudor

Dr. Maria-Dana Tudor, 64, passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, on February 8, 2026, in Bucharest, Romania. She was surrounded by family and many friends.

A devoted physician, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and deeply faithful Orthodox Christian, Maria's life was marked by compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to both her calling and her community.

Born on August 15, 1961, in Sibiu, Romania, Maria knew from the age of nine that she wanted to become a doctor. Her determination led her to pursue a medical degree in Pulmonary Medicine in Romania. In 1995, driven by a desire for greater opportunities and professional growth, she immigrated to the United States. She completed a three-year medical residency in Cleveland, Ohio.

Due to visa requirements following her residency, Maria chose to serve in an under-resourced area and found herself in Phillipsburg, Kansas. There she discovered not only a fulfilling role as a physician but also a close-knit community of warm-hearted friends and colleagues who became an extended family.

Though grateful for the experience, Maria felt a deep longing to be closer to an Orthodox Church—a reflection of her profound faith that guided every aspect of her life.

This spiritual yearning led her to Minnesota, where she found both a vibrant Romanian Orthodox community and a new professional home at North Memorial Health Clinic in Fridley. At North Memorial, Maria thrived among colleagues who quickly became like family. She loved going to work each day and was known for her generosity and authenticity—qualities that made her presence unforgettable.

Maria's faith was central to her identity. A devout member of St. Mary Romanian Orthodox Church, she never missed services and served as a reader during liturgies. Her devotion inspired many around her; she lived her beliefs with humility and grace. It had long been her dream to retire at Agapia Monastery in Romania—a place dear to her heart, where she used to stay at as a child—and despite illness, she was able to visit there last November for several cherished days.

Maria leaves behind a loving family who brought immense joy into her life: her daughter Joanna Tudor-Roley; son-in-law Jed Roley—whom she considered as much a son as any by birth; and grandchildren Sofia and Simeon. She also leaves behind her beloved brother Fr. Tudor Ciocan and his wife Georgeta; nephew Antonie; niece Maria; father Dinu Ciocan; numerous Godchildren whom she lovingly helped baptize; and many dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness.

She was preceded in death by her mother Cristina and brother Andrei.

Maria-Dana Tudor was the kind of person one rarely meets—genuine beyond measure and endlessly generous with both time and spirit. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.


May her memory be eternal and bring comfort to those who mourn her passing.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Chivotul Mare SRL, Romania (+40 765 423 620)