Aleksander A. Derzhuk

Aleksander entered elementary school in 1951 in Dengofovka. He graduated high school in 1961. Upon graduation, Aleksander entered professional technical college and received a degree as a master's electrician. After which, he joined the Soviet army where he was deployed in the far east of Russia. In 1966, he entered Kiev Polytechnical Institute, from which he graduated 1973 with a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduating, Aleksander began working as an engineer for Technological Mechanical Design and Research Institute in Kiev.

During his career, he earned the distinguished Veteran of Labor Award for his dedication, service and research in the field of mechanical engineering. Aleksander has been credited for many different patents while working as a mechanical engineer during his long and wonderful career. He has also been credited for many inventions that were used in industrial manufacturing for which he received multiple national awards.

In November 1969, Aleksander met Danilenko, Svetlana and asked her to marry him the very next day. On January 24, 1970 the two were married in Kiev, Ukraine. Their first born son, Derzhuk, Andrey was born June 3, 1971. Their next child Derzhuk, Yuliya was born February 10, 1976. He was a devoted husband to Svetlana for 36 years until a lengthy illness took her away on May 11, 2006. Aleksander enjoyed very much spending time with his children as they grew. He was a devoted father and grandfather throughout his life. He has five grandchildren Karina 11, Anastanasia 7, Nicholas 6, Sofia 4 and Maxim 1.

Aleksander enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life, such as designing projects, gardening, photography and most all, fishing. He loved spending many joyful moments fishing with friends and family, most of all Nicholas his grandson.

To this day, he will always be remembered for his intelligence, compassion, family values, patience, his endless love for family and optimism.