Oleg S. Natalchenko

Oleg Semenovych Natalchenko, age 85, of Wheeling, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, August 23, 2024. Born on August 21, 1939, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Oleg was the beloved son of Semen Danylovych Natalchenko and Olga Iefymivna Vozniuk.

Oleg's early years were marked by a sense of duty. Before pursuing higher education, he served in the Soviet Army for two years near the city of Arkhangelsk, Northern Russia, close to the White Sea. After completing his service, he embarked on a distinguished academic journey, earning a Bachelor’s Degree and a PhD in Radio Engineering and Electronic Devices from the National Technical University in Kyiv.

For 25 years, Oleg dedicated his career to the Defense Research Institute, where he was instrumental in developing radar technology for the USSR Navy. Many of his innovative inventions were implemented on navy ships, underscoring his significant contributions to military technology. Following his tenure at the Defense Research Institute, he spent 13 years with the Ministry of the Industrial Development of Ukraine.

On January 10, 1964, Oleg married Galyna Matyazhova in Kyiv, and together they raised two children, Igor and Svitlana. The family’s journey brought them to the United States in 2006, where Oleg retired and became a cherished figure in his grandchildren's lives. His dedication as a grandfather, or "nanny," was a testament to his love and devotion, and he became known for his warmth and nurturing presence. He proudly became a U.S. Citizen on February 7, 2017.

Oleg’s passions extended far beyond his professional achievements. He was a researcher, a gifted photographer, an enthusiastic music lover, and an art collector. His love for hands-on projects led him to build a state-of-the-art tool shop at home, earning him the affectionate nickname “Golden Hands” for his craftsmanship. Whether in Ukraine or the U.S., he enjoyed working on home improvement projects and continued to explore new interests and hobbies throughout his life. A lifelong learner, Oleg took English classes diligently and found joy in watching documentaries about history and technological advancements. His love for reading was a defining aspect of his character, and he will be remembered surrounded by the many books that enriched his life.

Oleg is survived by his devoted wife, Galyna Natalchenko, his loving children, Igor (Marina) Natalchenko of Kyiv, Ukraine, and Svitlana Natalchenko (Sergiy Mesropyan) of Northbrook, Illinois, and his cherished grandchildren, Nikolas and Elizabeth Natalchenko of Kyiv, Ukraine, and Victoria and Edward Mesropyan of Northbrook, Illinois. He was also the fond brother of the late Lubovj Grachkova and an uncle to Alexey Grachkov of Kyiv, Ukraine.

Oleg Semenovych Natalchenko’s life was a testament to his dedication, curiosity, and love for family. His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Seguin & Symonds Funeral Home, 858 Sheridan Road, Highwood. A graveside service will follow on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 2:30 PM at Vernon Cemetery, 15215 Cemetery Road, Lincolnshire, IL.

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