Sergey Kvyatkovsky, a well-known Ukrainian writer, poet and public figure, was laid to rest on July 5th, 2021 in his hometown of Dunaevtsy, in the Khmelnytsky region. The news of his passing at the age of 78 shocked and saddened the literary world, as well as his family, friends, and fans.
Kvyatkovsky was born on July 30th, 1942 in the village of Mykolayivka, now part of the city of Dunaevtsy. He spent his childhood in a working-class family and discovered his passion for writing at a young age. He studied journalism at the Ivan Franko Lviv National University and began his career as a journalist in the local newspaper. Throughout his life, Kvyatkovsky wrote numerous poems, short stories, and novels, earning him recognition and awards, including the prestigious Shevchenko National Prize.
His works often reflected the beauty and simplicity of village life, as well as the struggles and joys of ordinary people. Kvyatkovsky’s writing style was characterized by vivid imagery, deep emotions, and a strong connection to his Ukrainian roots. His works were translated into many languages and gained popularity not only in Ukraine but also abroad.
Kvyatkovsky was not only a talented writer but also an active member of the community. He was a member of the National Writers’ Union of Ukraine, as well as the head of the Dunaevtsy branch of the Union of Ukrainian Writers. He was also a member of the Khmelnytsky Regional Council and a deputy in the Verkhovna Rada, the Ukrainian parliament.
The news of his passing spread quickly, and tributes poured in from all over the country. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his condolences, saying, «Ukraine has lost a great writer, a wise and kind person who dedicated his life to the development of Ukrainian literature and culture.» Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Dmytro Kuleba also paid tribute to Kvyatkovsky, calling him «a true patriot and a bright representative of Ukrainian literature.»
The funeral service took place at the Holy Ascension Church in Dunaevtsy, with a large number of people bidding farewell to the writer. The church was filled with flowers, and his coffin was adorned with the Ukrainian flag and his portrait. People from all walks of life came to pay their respects, including government officials, fellow writers, and ordinary citizens who were touched by Kvyatkovsky’s works.
In his eulogy, Kvyatkovsky’s son, Oleksiy, spoke about his father’s dedication to his craft and his love for his homeland. He also thanked everyone for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. After the service, Kvyatkovsky was laid to rest at the Dunaevtsy cemetery, next to his parents’ graves.
The legacy of Sergey Kvyatkovsky will continue to live on through his works, which will inspire future generations of writers and readers. He will be remembered as a talented writer, a devoted public figure, and a loving father and husband. His passing is a great loss to the Ukrainian literary world, but his contributions will always be cherished and celebrated.
As we say goodbye to Sergey Kvyatkovsky, let us remember his words: «The power of words is limitless, and it is up to us to use them wisely and for the betterment of our society.» May his words continue to guide us and may his memory be eternal.
