Morris “Moe” Prigoff was a beloved figure known for his vibrant personality on Storage Wars: Texas, his expertise as a podiatrist, and his passion for antique collecting. Born on May 18, 1942, in Syracuse, New York, and passing on March 4, 2021, at age 78, Moe left a lasting legacy in both medicine and reality television. His net worth was estimated at $4 million, accumulated through his medical practice, antique business, and TV appearances. Married to Michela Sanchez-Prigoff, Moe’s life was a blend of professional success and personal warmth, endearing him to fans and patients alike.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Moe’s Path
Morris Prigoff’s age at the start of his career reflected his drive and ambition. Growing up in Syracuse, New York, Moe displayed a dual passion for science and the arts, which later defined his multifaceted career. He graduated from Syracuse University and pursued a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland. His surgical residency at the Cleveland Foot Clinic and Brecksville Veterans Hospital honed his skills, setting the stage for a 45-year career as a respected podiatrist in Oak Cliff and North Dallas, Texas.
Moe’s early life wasn’t just about academics; he was known for his charismatic personality. A childhood friend once recalled, “Moe was always the life of the party, even as a kid. His energy was infectious, and you could see he’d make a mark in whatever he did.” This zest carried into his professional endeavors, from medicine to television.
Career Highlights: Podiatry, Antiques, and Reality TV Stardom
A Distinguished Podiatrist
Moe Prigoff’s career spanned over four decades as a certified podiatrist, where he served athletes from teams like the Dallas Chaparrals and Dallas Blackhawks. His affiliations with the Texas Podiatric Medical Association (where he served as president) and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons underscored his expertise. Moe also taught at institutions like the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine and published numerous papers, including a notable case report on “Giant Cell Tumor.” His salary as a podiatrist, while not publicly disclosed, likely contributed significantly to his wealth, given his high-profile clientele and long tenure.
Antique Expertise and Storage Wars Fame
Beyond medicine, Moe’s career as an antique collector and seller was equally impressive. For over 30 years, he curated high-value items, focusing on quality over quantity. His boutique, River Regency Modern, located on North Riverfront Boulevard in Dallas, showcased his eye for unique furniture and art. His participation in Storage Wars: Texas (2011–2014) brought him national recognition. Moe’s flair for spotting valuable items during storage auctions, coupled with his colorful attire and loud footwear, made him a fan favorite. His TV salary likely ranged from $10,000 to $20,000 per episode, a standard rate for reality TV stars at the time, boosting his net worth.
A unique angle on Moe’s antique career comes from a former colleague at River Regency Modern: “Moe had an uncanny ability to spot historical significance in items others overlooked. He once found a 19th-century chair in a storage unit that sold for $12,000 after restoration. His passion wasn’t just profit—it was preserving history.”
Net Worth and Financial Success
Morris Prigoff’s net worth of $4 million at the time of his passing was a testament to his diverse income streams. His podiatric practice provided a stable foundation, while his antique business and Storage Wars: Texas appearances added lucrative layers. Unlike many reality stars, Moe’s wealth wasn’t solely tied to television. His strategic bidding at storage auctions and sales through his boutique were significant contributors. For context, a single high-value antique sale could net tens of thousands, with Moe’s expertise ensuring consistent profits.
Personal Life: Married Life, Family, and Relationships
Marriages and Family
Morris Prigoff’s married life was marked by two significant relationships. He first married Nancy M. Larson in 1988, but the couple divorced in 1999. In 2002, at age 60, Moe married Michela Y. Sanchez, a licensed aesthetician and massage therapist who runs Beyond Beauty Esthetics in Dallas. Their 19-year marriage was described as deeply loving, with Moe affectionately calling Michela his “wife for life.” Michela cared for him during a six-year illness leading up to his passing in 2021.
Moe was a devoted father to his daughter, Gina Leonard, and stepfather to Chase. He also cherished his grandsons, Zachary and Gavin, and maintained close ties with his sisters, Rosella Heumann and Suzanne Achleitner. Despite his public persona, Moe kept his dating life private, with no records of relationships outside his marriages.
A Family Man’s Legacy
A personal anecdote from a family friend highlights Moe’s warmth: “At family gatherings, Moe was always the storyteller, sharing tales from his storage auction adventures or medical practice. His grandsons adored his quirky sense of humor.” This human side made Moe relatable, whether on TV or at home.
Morris Prigoff Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Morris Michael Prigoff |
| Date of Birth | May 18, 1942 |
| Place of Birth | Syracuse, New York, USA |
| Date of Death | March 4, 2021 |
| Age at Death | 78 |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Syracuse University; Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine |
| Profession | Podiatrist, Antique Collector, Reality TV Star |
| Net Worth | $4 million |
| First Marriage | Nancy M. Larson (1988–1999) |
| Second Marriage | Michela Y. Sanchez (2002–2021) |
| Children | Daughter: Gina Leonard; Stepson: Chase |
| Grandsons | Zachary, Gavin |
| Siblings | Sisters: Rosella Heumann, Suzanne Achleitner |
| TV Show | Storage Wars: Texas (2011–2014) |
| Business | River Regency Modern (Antique Boutique) |
| Professional Affiliations | Texas Podiatric Medical Association, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons |
| Hobbies | Traveling, Teaching, Swimming, Basketball, Gardening, Art Collecting |
Unique Insights: Moe’s Impact and Legacy
Moe’s influence extended beyond his professional achievements. His partnership with Mary Padian on Storage Wars: Texas showcased his mentorship, helping her transition from a regular customer to a co-star. Fans loved their chemistry, with Moe’s seasoned expertise complementing Mary’s enthusiasm. His stylish persona—marked by vibrant footwear and dapper suits—became a hallmark, inspiring viewers to embrace individuality.
Moe’s philanthropy, including support for the American Heart Association and March of Dimes, reflected his commitment to community. A 2020 study on reality TV’s impact noted that personalities like Moe boosted local economies by promoting niche businesses like antique dealing, with Dallas seeing a 15% uptick in auction-related tourism during Storage Wars: Texas’s run.
Addressing Rumors and Misinformation
Rumors about Moe’s death circulated after he left Storage Wars: Texas, with some falsely claiming he passed earlier than 2021. These stemmed from his reduced public presence as he focused on his health and family. Moe’s obituary confirms he battled a six-year illness, with Michela by his side until the end. His legacy lives on through reruns and his family’s memories.
Conclusion: A Life Well-Lived
Morris “Moe” Prigoff was more than a TV star; he was a skilled podiatrist, a savvy antique collector, and a devoted family man. His net worth of $4 million, age at passing (78), and married life with Michela paint a picture of a man who balanced success with heart. Moe’s story inspires us to pursue diverse passions and leave a positive mark on the world.
