Alexandra Konovalova

Baku, born Alexandra Tertishnaya in a small village in Ukraine, embodies resilience and love. Growing up in a tumultuous time of Soviet regime and Holodomor, she faced unimaginable challenges, including the killing of her father and older brother, and the struggles of surviving during the Second World War. Despite these hardships, she emerged as a tenacious and caring person, always putting her family first. Her early years were marked by a deep bond with her father, who instilled in her a strong work ethic and willpower. Even as a teenager, she maintained a sense of dignity, always neatly dressed and ready to help others. Baku's journey took her from her village to various places, including Murmansk, where she bravely joined a stranger to care for her son. In 1939, she married Konstantin, but their time together was cut short by the war. Later, she met Valdo, a German officer. She had two children Dimitry and Olga. Family became the cornerstone of her life. She cherished moments with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often laughing heartily as they played. Her little great-grandchildren affectionately called her Baku, because they couldn’t pronounce “babushka”. Her home was filled with the sound of hymns and prayers, reflecting her deep faith. Baku loved to read the Bible and would often pray on her knees, a habit that her family cherished. She found joy in sewing and embroidery, spending hours at her sewing machine while singing. In 1995, she moved to Australia, bringing her loving spirit and strong values with her. Baku's life is a testament to endurance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to her family.

Baku has faced significant hardships throughout her life. She survived the Holodomor, that took its toll on many families in Ukraine including her own. Killing of her father and older brother with dispossession of their property led her at just eight years old to roam the streets in search of food and shelter during the harsh winter. At 14 years of age she showed remarkable bravery by leaving her village and travelling with a lady, almost a stranger thousands of kilometres away to babysit her son. The Second World War brought further challenges, including the German occupation in Kiev, where food was scarce and the cold was extreme. One particularly harrowing moment came when she jumped out of a hospital window with her sick one-year-old son, desperate to escape a situation where his life was in danger. Baku's life took a transformative turn after the war when she gave her life to Christ during a home church meeting. This decision deepened her faith, and she became involved with the underground church, sending parcels to persecuted Christians in Siberia. When the Soviet regime softened, she continued to cherish her faith, singing in the church choir and praying fervently.

Baku’s spirit shines brightly through her family. Her tenacity and caring nature continue to influence those who knew her, especially her great-grandchildren. They carry forward her love for prayer, often gathering together to share moments of faith, just as she did. Her sacrificial heart is echoed in the way family members support one another. They remember her stories of hardship and survival, which inspire them to face their own challenges with courage. Baku often reminded them to finish everything on their plates, a lesson rooted in her experiences of scarcity. This awareness of others' struggles continues to shape her family’s values, fostering a sense of compassion and community. Following in Baku’s steps her great-grandchildren are involved in Worship ministry. Which plays a vital part in their lives. They may not have known her in her younger days, but through these shared traditions and values, Baku lives on in their hearts, guiding them to love God and cherish family above all.