Yaroslaw "Jerry" Yawen

Yaroslaw “Jerry” Yawen, 71, of Bristol, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Born on June 9, 1954, in Ukraine, he was one of two children to the late Peter and Maria (Schepan) Yawen.  Jerry carried his love for his homeland in his heart throughout his life, while building a new chapter for his family in the United States since 1999.

Jerry was a proud and devoted family man. For 45 years, he was married to the love of his life, Luba (Taras). Together they built a life defined by hard work and sacrifice, always placing family first. Some of their happiest moments were the simplest, especially long walks on the beach enjoying the beauty of nature.  A tireless worker, Jerry believed in providing for those he loved. His strength was quiet but constant, and his example shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren.  Jerry had a passion for cars and also loved discussing politics. As the family historian, he preserved the stories of his homeland and, became equally interested in understanding and sharing American history.  A longtime and dedicated member of St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church, Jerry remained loyal in his faith and proud of his Ukrainian heritage. Through his church community, he built a close-knit circle of friends from his homeland creating friendships grounded in shared memories, culture, and hope. Nothing brought Jerry more joy than being “Deed-oh” to his grandchildren. He cherished every moment spent with them, and his greatest happiness was simply being in their presence.  Jerry’s life was one of devotion to his wife, his family, his faith, and his heritage. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

In addition to his wife Luba, he leaves his daughter, Nataliya Oleksenko, her husband Vasyl, and their children, Max and Liliana; his sister Luba Pahuta; his nephew Paul Pahuta; and his extended family, Antonina and Oleksandr Oleksenko and Stanislaw Oleksenko and their families.

Family and friends may gather on Sunday from 5-7 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 9 a.m. meeting directly at St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church, 303 Eddie Glover Blvd., New Britain.  Committal will follow at West Cemetery, Plainville.   For online expressions of sympathy please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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