Mother of Iryna Zarutska: 'She Loved America'

Zarutska had come to the U.S. in 2022 with her mother, brother and sister as a refugee from Russia’s war on Ukraine. Her father was barred from leaving Ukraine to attend her funeral due to wartime travel restrictions for fighting age men, according to the New York Post:

The father of the Ukrainian refugee knifed to death on a Charlotte train had to miss her funeral in North Carolina because he is stuck at home due to Russia’s invasion — inflicting yet another scar on a family that fled the war for the comparative safety of the US.

Obituary for Iryna Zarutska:

Iryna Zarutska, 23, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, 22 August 2025.

Born on 22 May 2002, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Iryna was the beloved daughter of Anna Zarutska and Stanislav Zarutskyi. In August 2022, she emigrated from Ukraine with her mother, sister, and brother to escape the war, and she quickly embraced her new life in the United States.

A gifted and passionate artist, Iryna graduated from Synergy College in Kyiv with a degree in Art and Restoration. She shared her creativity generously, gifting family and friends with her artwork. She loved sculpting and designing unique, eclectic clothing that reflected her vibrant spirit.

Iryna also had a deep love for animals. She often cared for her neighbors’ pets, and many fondly remember seeing her walking them through the neighborhood, always with her radiant smile. She dreamed of pursuing a career as a Veterinary Assistant while also working toward her independence by learning to drive. Remarkably, she became fluent in English within a very short time, reflecting her determination and love of learning.

Though she enjoyed adventures, sightseeing, and exploring new places with her close friends, Iryna was also a homebody at heart, happiest when surrounded by family and loved ones. Her mother lovingly recalls her ability to sleep for wonderfully long stretches—something she affectionately called an “artist’s gift.”

Iryna is survived by her parents, Anna and Stanislav; her sister, Valeriia; her brother, Bohdan; her life partner, Stas Nikulytsia; aunt, Valeria Haskell (Frank Scott); her cousins, Vera Falkner and Viktor Falkner; and many cherished family members and friends.

Iryna will be remembered for her kindness, her creativity, and the lasting impression she left on everyone she met. Her absence leaves a deep void, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.