It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Sergei Ternovski, who left us far too soon at the age of 58. To know Sergei was to know a man of warmth, energy, and laughter. He was a loyal friend, a devoted and loving father, and a familiar face in the local sports community.

What makes this loss even more staggering is how quickly it happened. Sergei was diagnosed with stage 4 soft tissue sarcoma on November 24th. He started chemotherapy right after his 58th birthday in December, determined to fight. But the cancer was aggressive, and he passed far too soon. His family and five children, the youngest just 7 and 10 years old, have been left shocked and heartbroken. There was no time to prepare, no time to plan, and no time to brace for a life without him.

Sergei lived his life with passion and curiosity. He had a great smile that could brighten any room. He loved to travel, exploring new places and sharing adventures with his friends. And he had a creative eye - he was passionate about photography, always capturing moments and memories to share with those he loved.

And, of course, he was a dedicated athlete and sports fan. Whether cheering on his beloved Washington Capitals or stepping onto the court himself, sports were woven into the very fabric of his life. Volleyball was his true passion, and for many years, he gave back to the game as a referee—respected by players and coaches alike for his fairness, calm demeanor, and the friendly smile he always brought to the court.

As Sergei's friend, I am hoping to rally his community—his friends, his fellow referees, his coworkers, and everyone who knew him—to help lighten the financial burden on his family during this devastating time. The funds raised here will go directly to supporting his young children. We aim to provide a small measure of stability by helping to cover immediate funeral expenses and contributing to a fund for the children's ongoing needs—ensuring they have the resources for school, sports, activities, and the everyday costs of growing up.

Your generosity will provide direct support to Sergei's children in the following ways:

Funeral & Memorial Costs: To ease the immediate financial pressure on the family during this painful time.

Children's Support Fund: The remaining funds will be set aside to help with the education, sports programs, and essential needs and the long-term well-being of the youngest children, Alisa and Max, ages 7 and 10.

Every single contribution, no matter the size, is a message of love and support for this family. It tells his children that their father was loved, that his kindness to others is remembered, and that his community is here for them.

Thank you for your kindness, your generosity, and for helping us honor Sergei's memory by caring for his greatest legacy—his children.

With sincere gratitude and sorrow,

Slava Mezheritsky

(Friend of Sergei and his Family)