Yuriy Ivanov

May 14, 1987 - January 8, 2020

On May 14th, 1987 Eugene and Svetlana Ivanov welcomed their third child, Yuriy Ivanov. Yuriy was born in Chernivtsi Ukraine and immigrated to Fresno, CA, February 14th, 1990. There he spent his childhood with his large immediate and extended family. In 1997 the Ivanov family moved to Charlotte, NC, where the family established their roots and currently resides. Yuriy endured hardship when on April 12, 2011, Yuriy lost his father Eugene. Then on January 8, 2020 the family endured another loss as Yuriy unexpectedly passed away. Yuriy is survived by his mother, Svetlana Ivanov, sister Alena and her husband Paul Gavrilyuk, brother Stan and his wife Marina and their two children Violetta and Jolinna, and brothers Sergey, Ben and Dar, along with many aunts, uncles and cousins. Yuriy was known for his kind, generous heart, and a loving spirit. He was a fierce and loyal friend who stood up for those in need. Yuriy would often surprise his family with unselfish acts of kindness such as helping his cousin Dennis move across the country without even being asked. Yuriy was also very smart, creative and loved to gain knowledge on how to better himself. He loved to read and the last book in his Kindle was “Forgiveness: The Ultimate Healer.’” This was so true for Yuriy as he was quick to forgive and never spoke ill of anyone, even when warranted. Yuriy was also known for his deep and meaningful conversations, and when he asked ‘how are you”, he truly wanted to know. Yuriy loved to spend time with his only grandparent, Valentina, always being attentive, loving and kind to her. Yuriy also had deep struggles and at times had difficulty coping with his inner turmoil. He was open and honest about his life and had a loving and supportive family. Yuriy had always dreamed about traveling to Russia and in February 2019 he moved to a Moscow treatment facility for three months. There he had profound spiritual experiences that changed him forever. He developed a personal relationship with Jesus and was baptized in the church he attended. There he made many friends who understood his struggles and helped him with his recovery. Yuriy continued his treatment in Riga, Latvia where he also volunteered. When Yuriy returned home in October of 2019, he was the best version of himself. Those who saw him again would comment on the light and freedom that he had in his eyes. He was so excited and eager for his future and would always dream of all the things to come. More than anything he truly wanted to live, to be happy and enjoy all that life had to offer. Unfortunately for us, Yuriy's physical journey came to an end, but we are comforted by the fact that he is now at peace and no longer struggling. Yuriy’s family and friends are grateful for all those who have come to express their sympathies. Please keep the Ivanov family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.