Irene Ostry

How do you capture the life of a woman who embodied resilience, warmth, and an unwavering dedication to her family? Irene Ostry, at 86, left this world as gracefully as she lived in it—leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and tradition that will be carried on by all who knew her. Born into a world shadowed by immense hardship in communist-occupied China, Irene’s life reads like a novel, brimming with stories of bravery, hope, and the power of family.

Irene was born in Harbin, China, into a Russian family whose roots run deep with resilience and courage. She was the cherished daughter of Vitaly and Zoya Babek, who raised her with a profound respect for history and culture. Irene loved sharing memories of her father, a man whose influence left an indelible mark on her. As Communism tightened its grip in China, her father’s quiet bravery and fight for freedom led to unimaginable sacrifices. His capture and forced labor in Siberia—due to publishing an anti-Communist newspaper—was a pivotal chapter in Irene's life, shaping her values of freedom, integrity, and strength. When he returned, broken yet resolute, Irene’s family knew they had to leave to start anew, away from oppression. Their journey took them across continents, first to Brazil, where Irene worked tirelessly in a radio wire factory, learning Portuguese while still holding close the Russian heritage that grounded her. It was there, in the heart of a bustling immigrant community, that she met her lifelong partner, Peter Ostry. They were married in 1959 and, two years later, set out on another great adventure, emigrating to the United States with dreams of a brighter future.

Settling in Los Angeles, Irene and Peter embraced the American dream, creating a life centered on family, faith, and hard work. Together, they raised three children: Bruce, Peter Jr., and Natasha, whom Irene adored with all her heart. Family was everything to her, and she worked selflessly to ensure her children felt cherished and supported. But it was in her role as a grandmother, or “Baba,” that Irene truly shined. Her grandchildren—Anya, Alexandra, Peter, Ivan, Nicholas, and John—were her greatest treasures, and she poured her love into them, filling their lives with affection, tradition, and unforgettable memories.

She became a steadfast presence, offering guidance, comfort, and her delicious cooking which became legendary in her home. Her garlic kale salad, not exactly a Russian tradition, was a family favorite. Although she did make some more traditional dishes like a mean borscht that her son Bruce was particularly fond of. Irene’s kitchen was a sanctuary where stories were shared, laughs echoed, and the aroma of her home-cooked meals promised solace to anyone who needed it. Her belief that a good meal could mend any hardship was a gift she passed down, and she found joy in nourishing not only the bodies but the souls of her loved ones. Her meals were her way of showing love, a reminder that no matter what challenges life brought, her family could always find warmth and comfort around her table.

A devout member of the Russian Orthodox Church, Irene’s faith was her anchor through life’s storms. She cherished Orthodox traditions, bringing her family together every Christmas and Easter to celebrate the rituals that had been part of her family for generations. Her faith, which had sustained her through the many trials of her life, remained strong until her last days, carrying her peacefully into the arms of her loved ones in heaven.

Irene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Peter, but her legacy lives on in the lives of her children, Bruce (with his wife, Kim), Peter Jr. (with his wife, Cindy), and Natasha, as well as her grandchildren and extended family.

Her memory is a reminder of the strength it takes to build a new life from scratch several times over, the courage to love wholeheartedly, and the grace of a gentle, giving spirit. Her life was like something out of a Hollywood movie. Yet when asked about it she’d timidly say, “I just did what I had to do.”

Irene’s family will miss her every day, and they take comfort in knowing her legacy of love and resilience will continue to be a guiding light in their lives. In the end, Irene was a symbol of unwavering love, a living testament to endurance and grace. Her life reminds us to cherish our family, uphold our traditions, and face life’s trials with an open heart. As we say goodbye, we celebrate the woman who gave us everything, and we hold her memory close, vowing to carry forward the love she gave so freely.