Biography

Iryna Volodymyrivna Chaika was born on May 12, 1973, in the village of Ozera, Kyiv region. She spent her life in her native community, where she was known for her kindness and dedication. For many years she worked as a postwoman, respected by neighbors for her reliability and cheerful spirit.

Iryna carried heavy responsibilities within her family. After the death of her mother, she took care of her brother, who lived with cerebral palsy and required constant support. At the same time, she managed her household, tended the garden, and raised her children. Friends and relatives remembered her as a woman who never refused help and who balanced work and family with remarkable strength.

On March 14, 2022, during the Russian occupation, Iryna attempted to evacuate from Ozera with her husband, younger son, and brother. Their car was part of a convoy of thirty vehicles leaving for Bucha. As the column moved along Instytutska Street, it came under mortar fire. Iryna, her husband, and her brother were killed instantly. Her younger son also perished that day, while her elder son, who witnessed the tragedy, later died in September 2022 from heart failure.

Iryna left behind two daughters, the younger of whom was nineteen at the time of her mother’s death.

She is remembered as a devoted mother, sister, and wife, a woman of compassion whose life was cut short while trying to protect her family. Her children, relatives, friends and colleagues continue to cherish her memory.