Obituary of Olga Hunczak

Olga Karpenko Hunczak of Chatham Township, NJ, was born on May 1, 1942, and died on November 19, 2024. She was 82 years old.

She was born in Kiev, Ukraine and spent her formative years living in Irvington, NJ.  She was a PLAST counselor and an active member of the Ukrainian community where she met the love of her life, Taras Hunczak.  They were married on August 19, 1961, and moved to Chatham Township shortly thereafter where they continued to live happily for the next 63 years, raising sons Paul and Dan, working to free Ukraine, and traveling the world.  Olga was a selfless person who put others' interests before hers.  She was a committed wife and partner to Taras, whom she assisted throughout his career.  Olga earned a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University, and she also was the Dean of Admissions at the Rutgers Law School in Newark.

Olga was a loving mother to sons Paul and Dan, whom she kept on the right track (mostly).  She was a caring individual who helped the elderly in the neighborhood with shopping and doctor's appointments. 

In 1972, Olga and Taras built a cherished home in Glen Spey, NY, where they spent many joyful summers surrounded by nature and family.  Olga's dedication to her community extended beyond her immediate family; she served as the Secretary and Treasuer of the Ozeriany Lake Association for 35 years.  In her role, she played a vital part in fostering community spirit and ensuring the well-being of the lake and its surroundings, further demonstrating her commitment to service and connection with others.

Her father, Semen Karpenko. and mother, Irene Karpenko, predeceased her, as did her husband Taras Hunczak.   She is survived by her children Paul Hunczak and partner Gloria Kupka; Dan Hunczak and his wife Cynthia Hunczak; and grandchildren Luke Hunczak; Peter Hunczak and his wife AJ Hunczak; Andrew Hunczak; Matthew Hunczak; Trevor Frederick and Tristan Frederick.

Her gracious, caring spirit and love for others will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all that knew her.