Nina Nalywayko

Nina Nalywayko, born in Paryduby, Ukraine, died on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital - New Brunswick. She was the beloved daughter of Nikanor and Kateryna (Lampyka) Onyshchuk.

In 1949, after enduring the profound sadness of war and residing in a displaced person camp in Germany, Nina emigrated from Ukraine. She carried with her the rich tapestry of her Ukrainian heritage, a heritage she cherished throughout her life and passed down with pride to her family. Upon arriving in the United States, she settled in Manhattan, graduated college with a degree in Chemistry, a very uncommon feat for women of her generation. That led her to start a career as a Fragrance Chemist working for several years for International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF). During this time, she met her beloved husband, Dmytro. After marrying, they shared many years of joy with their three children, spending most of their time together in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, until his passing in 1996.

When Nina moved to New Jersey, she enjoyed a second chapter in her life, marrying Lewko Maystrenko in 2004. Their life together was filled with laughter and a renewed zest for life until his passing in 2010.

Nina's life was a testament to the importance of family and her beloved Ukraine . She was predeceased by her loving husband, Dmytro, and second husband Lewko, but leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth. She is survived by her devoted children Nick, Natalia Bentley, her husband David, and Walter and his wife, Christina, as well as her cherished grandchildren Nicholas, Halyna, and Maksym.

Nina was not only a dedicated mother and grandmother, but she was also an active member of various Ukrainian organizations. Her commitment to preserving and celebrating her cultural heritage was evident in her involvement and contributions to these organizations. Nina's passion for her roots was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Nina will be remembered for her sharp mind, wicked sense of humor and fierce independence.

Gathering with the family will be Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox, South Bound Brook, NJ. A funeral liturgy will begin at 11:00 AM followed by burial in St. Andrew Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Razom for Ukraine https://www.razomforukraine.org/ or

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of USA Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine at Home | Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA (uocofusa.org)