In the battles for Ukraine’s freedom and independence, the life of Andriy Nakonechnyi was cut short—a native of Radekhiv in Lviv region, an athlete, teacher, director of the Radekhiv Youth Sports School, soldier, and public figure.
From childhood, Andriy loved sports, finding in them both meaning and vocation. This passion guided him throughout his life. In 1993, he entered the Lviv State Institute of Physical Culture, graduating with honors in 1998 as a teacher of physical education and sports. For nearly a decade he devoted himself to teaching at the Baryliv Secondary School and the Vuzliv Natural and Economic Lyceum.
His path then expanded into public and athletic life. In 2010, Andriy completed his master’s degree at the Lviv Regional Institute of Public Administration under the President of Ukraine. He worked as chief specialist in the Department for Family, Youth, and Sports at the Radekhiv District State Administration, later becoming head of the Radekhiv Youth Sports School. This school became the work of his life. Thanks to his persistence and dedication, in 2011 it received its own building and was created essentially from scratch—modern, equipped, and strong. A whole generation of athletes grew up there, winning prizes at regional and national competitions.
Andriy Romanovych was elected three times to the city council, where he worked actively for the development of his community, always remaining a man of his word, a reliable colleague, and a mentor to young people.
“He lived for his school, for his students. He always cared about the development of sports in our city. Working with him was easy because he always kept his word,” recalls his colleague Pavlo Tkachuk.
When war broke out in eastern Ukraine, Andriy Nakonechnyi did not stand aside. In May 2015, he joined the National Guard of Ukraine and took part in combat operations in Luhansk region. After demobilization, he continued to support the army as a volunteer and civic activist.
On February 24, 2022, there was no question of “whether to go or not.” He did not wait for a summons—within the first days of the full-scale invasion he again took up arms and returned to the front. Loyal to his oath and his duty, he fought where the battles were fiercest.
On May 30, 2022, this Hero fell in combat near Bakhmut in Donetsk region. His heart—filled with love for sport, for children, for his homeland—stopped on the front line.
By decree of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Nakonechnyi was awarded the Order “For Courage,” Third Class. Today, the Radekhiv Youth Sports School bears his name—a symbol of resilience and devotion to his cause.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters. For them, he was not only a father, but also an example of courage, strength of spirit, and a boundless love for life.
Eternal memory to Andriy Nakonechnyi. Heroes never die.