Irene Bondarenko

Irene M. Bondarenko (Meheden), age 76, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026.

 Born on January 30, 1950, in Munich, Germany, to the late Gregor and Katherine (née Kurawski) Meheden, Irene was raised with a strong sense of Ukrainian culture and heritage from birth, which remained an important part of her identity throughout her life.  At the age of 6, she immigrated to the United States, arriving on Halloween, a memory she vividly recalled, especially the sight of children dressed in costumes celebrating the holiday.  Irene and her mother, Katherine, settled on a farm with family in Williamstown, New Jersey, where Irene helped with milking cows, tending to chickens, and planting and harvesting crops, developing a strong work ethic at a young age. They later moved together to the Cramer Hill section of Camden, New Jersey, where she attended Woodrow Wilson High School, graduating in 1968.  After graduation, Irene went on to work at Weyerhaeuser before moving on to Florkowski Builders, where she worked for over 20 years.  Following her retirement, Irene dedicated her time to caring for her mother, cooking, and spending cherished moments with family and friends.  She later moved with her family to Harleysville, PA, where she continued to surround herself with the loved ones who meant so much to her.

 Irene often attended Ukrainian festivals, events, and dances with her friends, embracing the music, traditions, and community that she held so dear.  It was at one of these weekend festivals where she met Bohdan “Bo”, the love of her life, after he unsuccessfully tried to kick a soccer ball over a fence and back onto the field. They later struck up conversation at the Zabava, a moment that marked the beginning of their life together.  Irene and Bo married on May 6, 1978 and together they shared 47 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, dedication, tradition, and family.  They began their life together in Palmyra, NJ where they raised their two children Gregory and Kristina (husband Matthew).  Irene was a devoted and hands-on mother, always putting her children first.  She could often be found attending their afterschool activities or driving them to sports practices and games, all while creating a warm and loving home filled with support, encouragement, and lasting memories.

 Irene’s greatest joy was becoming a Baba to her two grandsons, Timothy and Conner.  She treasured every moment spent with them – playing UNO, drawing pictures, doing puzzles, reading together, and spending time outdoors.  She delighted in celebrating holidays, milestones, birthdays, and everyday moments with them, finding pure happiness in their laughter and the special bond they shared.

 Irene found happiness in life’s simple pleasures.  She loved gardening, cooking, and making perogies.  In her younger years, Irene delighted in playing the accordion.  She was an accomplished bowler, proudly participating in local nightly leagues.  Irene also enjoyed playing slot machines at the casino, exploring new places on the vacations she took, and looked forward to her yearly visits to Maryland to eat crabs by the waterfront.  She had a passion for Ukrainian beadwork, known as gerdany, making several beautiful necklaces over the years.  Irene treasured time spent with family and friends, was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, and took great pride in watching her grandchildren grow.

 Irene was predeceased by her parents, Gregor and Katherine Meheden, and her in-laws Andrew and Anna Bondarenko.  She is survived by her beloved husband Bo, her brothers Nicholas and John (Pat), her children Greg and Krissy (Matt), and her grandchildren Timothy and Conner.  Irene will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for her family.  Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.

 Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Tuesday, March 24 at 10AM at Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church, 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale, PA. Funeral service will begin at 11AM.  A luncheon in her memory will follow the service. Interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church or World Central Kitchen (MEMO: Ukraine).

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