Iryna Maria Kosel

Iryna Maria Kosel, 75, passed away peacefully on April 16th, 2026, surrounded by family in her Madeira home following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s.

She was born in Lithigow, Australia on June 7, 1950, and spent her childhood as well as early adulthood in Sydney. She graduated from the University of Sydney in 1972, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.

Iryna was the beloved daughter of the late Olena and Yaroslav Shewchyk, and daughter-in-law of the late Olena and Peter Kosel. She is survived by her loving husband, Peter Kosel; her son, Oleh Kosel (Shannon), and daughter, Larissa Kosel; her brother, George Shewchyk (Orysia); her sister-in-law, Vera Holovinsky (Wolodymyr); her nieces (Lucy, Natalie, Catherine) and nephew (Simon); and many adoring cousins.

When she wasn't working as a microbiologist or volunteering to a good cause, Iryna pursued her growing art collection and supported a wide assortment of charities. She was also fervent in the defense of her Ukrainian heritage, often writing letters and comments to the New Yorker and and various other publications.

A graveside service will be held at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, in Montgomery, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to United Ukrainian American Relief Committee