Rafail Krichevskiy

Rafail Krichevskiy passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025, in Laguna Woods, California, at the age of 89.

Born in Kharkov on October 12, 1936, Rafail lived a life committed to learning, discovery, and the sharing of knowledge. After graduating from Moscow State University and earning his doctorate in Theoretical Cybernetics, he spent more than three decades at the Sobolev Institute of Mathematics in AkademGorodok, the educational and scientific center of Siberia. He was also a full professor at a prestigious Novosibirsk University.

In the late 1990s, Rafail moved to the United States and joined the faculty at the University of California, Riverside, where he continued to pursue research and mentor students with characteristic patience and insight. Following his time at UCR, he earned his California teaching credentials and began a deeply meaningful second career as a high school mathematics teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Teaching at LAUSD, Rafail devoted himself to helping underprivileged students build confidence in mathematics and the sciences. Many of those he taught went on to higher education and successful careers, carrying with them the knowledge, encouragement, and belief in their abilities that he instilled. His influence changed the trajectory of countless young lives.

Alongside his academic and teaching accomplishments, Rafail was above all a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, and grandfather, and a loyal friend. He treasured his family and friendships, and those who knew him will remember his warmth, dry humor, and unwavering support.

Rafail was a distinguished mathematician whose work in information theory and universal coding left a lasting mark on his field, including the well-known Krichevsky–Trofimov estimator. Yet he was equally proud of the impact he made as a teacher, whether guiding university scholars or inspiring high school students who had never imagined a future shaped by education.

He will be remembered for his deep intellect, kind spirit, and lifelong dedication Mathematics and to helping others grow. His legacy lives on in the ideas he shaped, the students he uplifted, and the many lives he touched with kindness and wisdom.

Service Information

Funeral Service:

December 21, 2025 – 10:00 a.m.

Officiated by Rabbi Tzali Stillerman, Chabad of Aliso Viejo

Committal Service:

December 21, 2025 – 11:00 a.m.

Location:

Harbor Lawn–Mt. Olive Memorial Park & Mortuary

1625 Gisler Avenue, Costa Mesa, California

Reception:

A kosher brunch will be served at the same location immediately following the services.

Forever loved. Deeply missed. Always remembered.