A Life of Service and Resilience

Fedir Harkun (78), a former physical education teacher and police officer, had lived a life dedicated to service. Before the war, he maintained his home in Lysychansk, enjoying the quiet routines of retirement.

War transformed his world unexpectedly. In 2023, he was forced to evacuate through Sumy Oblast, rescued by military personnel. The journey was fraught with uncertainty, leaving him with a profound sense of loss and displacement.

Battling severe health challenges—coxarthrosis of the hip joints, heart disease, and limited mobility—Fedir found himself moving between temporary accommodations, constantly fearful of having no place to call home.

On November 17, 2024, he found sanctuary in Senior Chudo Village’s apartment 17.3A. More than just a living space, it became a beacon of hope and security.

Remarkably, Fedir had even met Dell Loy Hansen personally, sharing his poetry and experiencing the direct impact of the mission. His encounters left him deeply moved by the kindness of strangers.

His wisdom for younger generations is profound yet simple: “Understand and love your family. Remember that life is the most precious gift you can receive.”

To Dell Loy Hansen, he offers a heartfelt blessing: “May God give you much more than you give to us.”

His greatest hope now is to meet Hansen again, to continue sharing his story, and to find meaning in this unexpected chapter of his life.