The Monroe community is mourning the loss of a beloved husband, father, and church leader remembered for his deep love for people and unwavering faith.
Pastor Ivan Ryakhovskiy of First Baptist Church Monroe died on Thursday, Sept. 11, after years of health struggles, including a heart transplant in 2013, according to friends. Despite daily pain and ongoing complications, family and friends say he remained full of life, love, and a desire to serve others.
“Our dear brother Ivan…had a heart transplant in 2013, and in the last year, his heart health significantly declined,” Victor Karpenko wrote in a GoFundMe campaign launched to help the family. “He was full of life and love toward people and didn’t want to stop for a second.”
Ryakhovskiy leaves behind his wife, Svetlana, and their three children: Timothy, Emma, and Anna.
First Baptist Church Monroe shared the news on Facebook, calling his passing “deeply saddening” and reflecting on the blessing of his recent guest preaching. “Please lift up his wife, Lana Rya, their family, and the Spring of Life Monroe congregation in prayer,” the church wrote.
Community support has poured in. As of Monday, Sept. 29, the fundraiser created in Ryakhovskiy’s honor has raised more than $34,000 to help cover outstanding medical bills and provide for his family.
“Ivan loved and cared for every person he had the privilege to meet,” Karpenko wrote. “His greatest desire was to bring glory to God with his life and show the goodness, joy, and peace that knowing God gives.”
Funeral services have not been made public. Those interested in donating can do so via GoFundMe here.
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