Mykhailo Farmiga is best known as the father of famous actresses Vera Farmiga and Taissa Farmiga. But beyond that, he is a proud Ukrainian immigrant whose life story is filled with strength, culture, and family values. His journey from war-affected Ukraine to building a peaceful life in the United States shows the true spirit of hard work and dedication. In this article, you’ll discover the full story of Mykhailo Farmiga—his early life, his path to America, his work and family life, and how he raised seven children with strong cultural roots. You’ll also learn how his values shaped the success of his children, especially Vera and Taissa, who carry his legacy proudly into the spotlight.
Profile Summary
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mykhailo Farmiga |
| Date of Birth | January 10, 1942 |
| Place of Birth | Ukraine |
| Nationality | Ukrainian-American |
| Ethnicity | Ukrainian |
| Religion | Ukrainian Greek Catholic |
| Spouse | Lubomyra “Luba” Farmiga |
| Children | 7 (Victor, Vera, Stephan, Nadia, Alexander, Laryssa, Taissa) |
| Residence (U.S.) | Irvington and Whitehouse Station, New Jersey |
| Profession | Former Systems Analyst; later worked in Landscaping |
| Languages Spoken | Ukrainian (primary), English (second language) |
| Notable For | Father of actresses Vera and Taissa Farmiga |
| Immigration Route | Ukraine → Argentina → United States |
Early Life in Ukraine and World War II Legacy
Mykhailo Farmiga was born on January 10, 1942, in Ukraine, during the difficult times of World War II. His parents, Theodor and Nadia Spas, met in a displaced persons camp in Karlsfeld, Germany, where many people had fled to escape the destruction of the war. Growing up in a war-torn Europe shaped Mykhailo’s early life, teaching him about survival, strength, and the importance of family. These early experiences gave him a strong sense of responsibility and a deep love for his Ukrainian roots, which he would later pass on to his children.
Immigration Journey: From Ukraine to the United States via Argentina
After surviving the challenges of post-war Europe, Mykhailo left Ukraine in search of a safer and more stable future. His journey took him to Argentina first, where he spent a few years adjusting to a new culture and language. Later, he immigrated to the United States, hoping for better opportunities. Like many immigrants, Mykhailo faced early struggles such as learning English, finding work, and building a new life from scratch. But he stayed strong, thanks to support from other Ukrainians in the U.S., and slowly created a life filled with purpose and pride.
Marriage to Lubomyra “Luba” Farmiga
Mykhailo met and married Lubomyra “Luba” Farmiga, a kind and educated woman who worked as a schoolteacher. Their marriage was built on shared values like faith, family, and love for their Ukrainian heritage. Luba, also from a Ukrainian background, helped keep cultural traditions alive in their home. Together, they formed a strong team, raising their children with respect, discipline, and cultural pride. Their partnership lasted for over 40 years and became the heart of their family life.
Who is Luba Farmiga?
Luba Farmiga, born Lubomyra Spas, is the wife of Mykhailo and the mother of their seven children. She worked as a schoolteacher and played a big role in keeping Ukrainian customs alive at home. She homeschooled their youngest daughter, Taissa, and made sure all the children stayed connected to their roots through language, music, religion, and traditions. Luba’s calm nature, strong values, and love for her family helped shape the caring and talented individuals their children became.
Professional Life: Systems Analyst to Landscaper
In the U.S., Mykhailo started his career as a computer systems analyst, showing his skills in technology and problem-solving. This job required focus, knowledge, and hard work—traits that Mykhailo had learned early in life. Later, he changed careers and began working as a landscaper. This move reflected his adaptability and willingness to do whatever was needed to support his large family. Like many immigrants, he didn’t see any work as beneath him. His dedication to providing for his family became a powerful example for his children.
Family Values and Home Life in New Jersey
Mykhailo and Luba raised their seven children in Irvington, New Jersey, before moving to Whitehouse Station for better opportunities. Their home was full of love, discipline, and culture. They spoke Ukrainian at home, and the children learned English only when they started school. The family was active in the Ukrainian community, often taking part in music, folk dancing, and religious events. Catholic faith was a big part of their lives, and cultural pride was taught daily. This rich and supportive home life played a key role in shaping their children into confident and successful adults.
Mykhailo Farmiga Children
Victor Farmiga
Victor Farmiga, born in 1981, is the eldest son in the Farmiga family. He has built a career in music and film scoring, working behind the scenes on creative projects. One of his known contributions was collaborating on the film Higher Ground, which starred and was directed by his sister Vera. While he stays away from the spotlight, Victor plays an important role in the family’s artistic side.
Vera Farmiga
Vera Farmiga, born on August 6, 1973, is the second oldest child and the most widely recognized member of the Farmiga family. She is an award-nominated actress best known for her roles in Up in the Air, The Conjuring series, and Bates Motel. Vera studied theater at Syracuse University and began her acting career on Broadway before moving to film and television. Recently, she formed a metal band called The Yagas, releasing a song as a tribute to the strength of the Ukrainian people.
Stephan Farmiga
Stephan Farmiga, born in 1984, is both a lawyer and a musician. He is also known for supporting his sisters’ careers, particularly in helping manage their professional paths. Although he keeps a low profile, Stephan plays a key role in maintaining the balance between the family’s artistic ventures and business decisions, making him an essential part of the family’s behind-the-scenes team.
Nadia Farmiga
Nadia Farmiga, born on February 23, 1977, started her career as a mechanical engineer before moving into the restaurant business. She is now the co-owner and head of Misto, a restaurant located in New York’s Hudson Valley. Known for mixing Ukrainian flavors with modern dishes, Nadia has created a space that honors her roots while offering something new. Her work reflects the family’s values of culture, creativity, and hard work.
Alexander Farmiga
Alexander Farmiga, born in 1989, is a talented artist and musician who expresses himself through visual and sound projects. He has chosen a creative path similar to his siblings but prefers to stay out of the public eye. His work reflects the family’s deep artistic influence and commitment to cultural expression.
Laryssa Farmiga
Laryssa Farmiga is one of the quieter members of the family and keeps her life private. She was born with spina bifida, a condition that affects the spine, but she has faced life with courage and strength. Her presence in the family is a reminder of resilience, and she is deeply loved and supported by her parents and siblings.
Taissa Farmiga
Taissa Farmiga, born on August 17, 1994, is the youngest of the Farmiga siblings and followed in her sister Vera’s footsteps into acting. She made her debut in Higher Ground and quickly rose to fame with roles in American Horror Story and The Nun. Though she didn’t plan to become an actress at first, Taissa has now made a strong name for herself in Hollywood.
The Farmiga Household: A Cultural Haven
The Farmiga household was a true cultural haven where Ukrainian heritage was not just respected—it was lived every day. Ukrainian was the main language spoken at home, and the children only started speaking English once they began school. They attended Ukrainian Catholic schools and took part in traditional dance ensembles, music lessons, and religious festivals. Faith played a central role in their daily lives, helping to create a strong moral foundation. These traditions brought the family closer together and helped the children understand and take pride in their roots, shaping their character and worldview from a young age.
Legacy: How Mykhailo Farmiga Shaped His Children’s Success
Mykhailo Farmiga’s deep belief in cultural values, discipline, and education had a lasting effect on his children’s lives. He and his wife Luba raised their family to work hard, stay humble, and always honor their heritage. This approach gave each child a strong sense of identity and the confidence to follow their passions. Vera and Taissa, in particular, carry this legacy into their public lives, often speaking proudly about their Ukrainian upbringing. Their success in Hollywood is a reflection of the foundation their father built—one based on love, guidance, and the importance of staying true to one’s roots.
Cultural Impact Beyond the Family
Mykhailo Farmiga’s story is not just about one man—it represents the journey of many Ukrainian-American immigrants who worked hard to build a better life while keeping their culture alive. Through his children’s visibility in the entertainment world, the Farmiga family has helped bring attention to Eastern European heritage in Hollywood and beyond. Their story has inspired many other immigrant families to embrace their culture, even while adapting to life in a new country. Mykhailo’s quiet commitment to tradition shows that cultural pride and modern life can go hand in hand.
Mykhailo Farmiga in Public Memory
Although Mykhailo Farmiga never sought fame for himself, he is often seen alongside his daughters at public events and interviews, especially on red carpets. His calm and humble presence stands as a reminder of the strength behind the scenes. To many, he represents the silent but powerful role that parents play in shaping future generations. He is a symbol of dedication, cultural strength, and steady support—someone whose influence may not always be loud, but is always deeply felt.
Conclusion
Mykhailo Farmiga’s life is a powerful example of what it means to stay strong, stay humble, and stay rooted in who you are. From surviving the challenges of post-war Europe to raising seven children in a culturally rich home in the U.S., his journey is full of lessons in resilience and love. His dedication to heritage, faith, and family has left a lasting mark not just on his children, but also on everyone who learns about his story. He shows us that the quiet strength of a devoted parent can shape futures, build success, and pass on traditions that last for generations.
FAQs About Mykhailo Farmiga
1. Who is Mykhailo Farmiga?
Mykhailo Farmiga is a Ukrainian-American immigrant and the father of actresses Vera and Taissa Farmiga. He worked as a systems analyst and landscaper while raising a culturally rich and close-knit family in New Jersey.
2. How many children does Mykhailo Farmiga have?
Mykhailo Farmiga has seven children: Victor, Vera, Stephan, Nadia, Alexander, Laryssa, and Taissa Farmiga.
3. What is Mykhailo Farmiga’s profession?
Mykhailo Farmiga worked as a systems analyst before transitioning to landscaping. His career reflects adaptability and a strong work ethic.
4. Where was Mykhailo Farmiga born?
He was born on January 10, 1942, in Ukraine, during the early years of World War II.
5. How did Mykhailo Farmiga influence his children?
He instilled strong Ukrainian values, cultural pride, and discipline, all of which deeply shaped the careers and identities of his children.
6. What is Mykhailo Farmiga’s cultural background?
Mykhailo Farmiga is of Ukrainian heritage. He and his wife raised their children in a Ukrainian-speaking home with strong traditions in faith, dance, and language.
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