Oleh Draznowsky

                                                                                                     Oleh Draznowsky

                                                                                   Beloved husband, Father and grandfather

                                                                                                          1946-2025

Oleh Draznowsky passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Exton, PA, on March 30, 2025. Oleh was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. He was 78 years old.

Oleh was born in Munich, Germany, on May 11, 1946, to parents Anna and Emil Draznowsky of Ukraine. He leaves behind his wife, Irene Draznowsky, and his two daughters, Vera Rodriguez and Andrea Draznowsky, along with his five grandchildren, Adrian, Emilia and Linden Rodriguez and Maxwell and Ashe Barra. His love for his family was steadfast and unwavering.

Oleh, his sister Martha and his parents came to the United States in 1949, passing through Ellis Island on Christmas Eve with a single suitcase, not knowing a word of English. They settled in Philadelphia, which had a robust Ukrainian community where Oleh would later meet his beloved Irene. Oleh loved to read from a very early age, and was an avid lifelong reader of everything from comic books to science fiction to the daily newspaper, devouring it from cover to cover! He valued curiosity for learning and education above all else, which he instilled in his children and grandchildren. 

Oleh’s youth was filled with books, sports of all kinds (but particularly tennis), and close friendships he made at school, including at Central H.S. and Temple University. Some of his fondest memories stemmed from his annual summers away at camp in the Pocono mountains, relishing the natural beauty of the forests and waterways of Lehighton, Pennsylvania.      

Oleh and Irene met through a Ukrainian youth group, where they enjoyed a common social circle. They shared countless long walks together, family dinners and a love for dancing and music during their courtship. On January 1, 1972 they were married, and to quote a poem he wrote for Irene, “the little girl became a part.” The young, married couple moved to Germany for about a year where they enjoyed new adventures abroad.   

Oleh worked as computer software engineer at Shared Medical, where he was known for his sharp intellect and unwavering determination. While his demeanor could be intimidating to some, those who truly knew him understood the depth of his character—his keen sense of humor, his quiet generosity, and the deep well of affection he carried for those closest to him. His dedication and expertise earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike, who affectionately called him “Draz”.

In later years, Oleh cherished his time with his grandchildren. While he could, he was always found on the floor heartily playing with them! Whether it was cards, a board game or “handball,” he enjoyed every second!  

In accordance with Oleh’s wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. His family kindly asks that you remember him in your own personal way.

Oleh’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, in the lessons he imparted, and in the quiet strength he carried through life.