Oleh V. Parfeniuk (Lystochok)

Military serviceman Oleg Parfenyuk (call sign Leaf) died on October 21, 2022, while performing a combat mission near the city of Bakhmut in Donetsk region. He was about to turn 41 in November. Oleg was born in the city of Rozhyshche in the Volyn region. There, he received his education, lived, and started a family. He worked at a furniture manufacturing company. Later, this work remained his favorite hobby. During the full-scale war, Oleg joined the ranks of the local Territorial Defense Forces. He went to defend his native country from the Russian occupier on April 20, 2022. He was a serviceman of the 214th separate special battalion "OPFOR" in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He held the position of a machine gunner in the sniper division. "A hero is one who dedicates his life to something greater than himself," said Joseph Campbell. Oleg was a loving husband and the best dad... Kind, sincere, cheerful, he easily connected with people. His comrades write that even in the worst situations, he always encouraged them with his optimism and good mood. Oleg was a sincerely believing person, a devout Catholic, and an altar server at the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord. Our love story lasted 19 years. I thank Alik for appearing in my life! He showed me what true LOVE looks like. I am grateful for our daughter Daria — the meaning of our life... And I promise to do everything possible and impossible to make her happy. For her, he was ready to reach for a star from the sky. Now this is my mission... You are my heart! You are my soul! You were and will be. I love you immensely and am proud of you. The anniversary approached, our special date, October 30 — the day we met, and after 6 years, on this very date, we officially created our family. He planned to come home for a few days. I had already dreamed of this meeting. I just didn't know it would be the last. On October 30, my husband returned home a Hero. He showed exceptional courage, honor, and the ability to serve in the name of freedom. To be a warrior is to live forever! You are my Hero. My daughter and I will carry the bright memory of you! Death leaves a pain that no one can heal. Love leaves a memory that cannot be taken away," wrote the wife of the fallen, Yulia. The defender was buried in his hometown. At home, Oleg was awaited by his wife, daughter, three sisters, and brother.