In Loving Memory of Masha – A Light That Lives On

In Loving Memory of Masha Vasilkovsky

A Fundraiser to Support Masha's Final Journey and Her Family

Organized by Yelena Masenko, longtime friend

With deepest love and full hearts, we share the news that our beloved friend and radiant soul, Maria (Masha) Vasilkovsky, left this world too young on June 15th, 2025, after a courageous and dignified battle with cancer. Though her time in this life was brief, she touched the world in a way few ever do—with her heart, her laughter, her boundless creativity, and her extraordinary kindness.

Masha was not just a visionary artist and acclaimed animation director—she was a deeply compassionate teacher, devoted mother, sacred friend, and a free spirit with a beautiful soul. She saw only the good in people, carried a radiant light, and gave selflessly of her time and talents to uplift those around her. Her warmth, understanding, and gentle wisdom left an indelible mark on all who were lucky enough to cross her path.

Through this GoFundMe, we are humbly asking for contributions to help her dear family—Ruah, Serafina, and Darius—with the cost of her final arrangements and upcoming memorial services. Any amount, no matter how small, is meaningful and deeply appreciated. If you are unable to donate, we kindly ask that you keep Masha’s soul in your prayers and thoughts—for the elevation of her spirit and in honor of the joy she brought into this world.

She helped establish the Lumen Animae School of Visual Arts in Ukraine, giving free arts education to youth affected by war, regardless of financial means.

While still a graduate student, she was part of the early animation outreach program on Skid Row in Los Angeles, bringing creativity to unhoused children.

She used her gifts to honor Holocaust survivors through animated short films such as “The Promise: A Story of Holocaust Survival” and “The Story of Three Rings,” preserving critical historical memory in collaboration with institutions like the Holocaust Museum LA.

To view some of Masha's films please visit

A Soul That Lives On

Masha fulfilled her purpose in this world with grace, freedom, and love. She gave endlessly from the heart, believed in beauty even in hardship, and lived with a deep sense of wonder and spirit. We know her journey continues, and we trust that we will meet her again, soul to soul, in another life.

We are also deeply grateful for the loving friends who surrounded Masha during her illness with support, presence, and unwavering devotion. She left this life held by love, with peace in her heart and light in her eyes.

Please join us in honoring Masha by helping ease the burden on her family during this sacred time. A memorial to celebrate her life will be announced soon.

Do not cry because you lost her. Smile because you knew her.

Thank you for being part of Masha’s journey. Thank you for helping her family. And thank you for keeping the memory of her luminous soul alive.

With love and gratitude,

Yelena Masenko

Friend and Fundraiser Organizer