Tonya Matvienko Honors Mother Nina Matvienko on Anniversary of Her Death

Marking Three Years Since the Death of Nina Matvieno

October 8 marks three years since the death of legendary Ukrainian singer Nina Matvienko, who passed away at the age of 75, just two days before her 76th birthday. The late singer’s children have also spoken about her final months, reflecting on a period defined by private illness and deep philosophical reflection.

The diagnosis came as a shock to her family because the singer had remained active until she fell ill with severe abdominal pain. Her son, Andrei Gonchar, explained that his mother chose to keep her health struggles private, viewing her illness as a personal matter while holding onto hope for a recovery. She was subsequently buried at the Zvirynetske Cemetery in Kyiv, leaving behind her husband, Petro Gonchar—whom she married in 1971—and their three children: Antonina, Ivan, and Andrei.

Daughter Tonya Matvienko Shares an Archival Photo and Final Wishes

In her social media post marking the anniversary, Tonya Matvienko emphasized that her mother’s greatest legacy is her enduring love for Ukraine and her wish for the national song to live on.

Rest in peace. I miss your love, support and hugs so much… Your love for Ukraine will remain with us forever, and now sounds not only with your voice, as a legacy from a real Berehynia. You wanted exactly this — long live the Ukrainian song! Glory to Ukraine!

Focus.ua also noted that singer Natalia Mohylevska shared final photographs of Nina Matvienko to honor her memory.

Family Reflections on the Final Months and Shared Conversations

In the wake of their mother’s passing, her children detailed the quiet, introspective atmosphere of her final months. Andrei Gonchar recalled that he and his mother grew especially close during this time, noting that she spent much of her energy reflecting on life, death, religion, and mysticism. He recounted a specific moment shortly after the full-scale war began when his mother embraced him in a car and offered an unexpected apology.

Before that, we always talked in high spirits, and then she said this for the first time. She said it in such a way that it caught my breath. I realized that it was as if something was going to happen.