Natalya Chytry, Beloved Art With Me Festival Employee Dies Unexpectedly — Chicago Community Mourns Her Heartfelt Loss

The Chicago community is reeling after the sudden and unexpected passing of Natalya Chytry, a beloved and dedicated employee at the Art With Me Festival. Known for her radiant energy, creativity, and boundless compassion, Natalya’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and colleagues. Her loss has sent shockwaves through both the local arts community and among those who were fortunate enough to share her warmth and light.

Originally from Elmhurst, Illinois, and a proud resident of Chicago, Natalya Chytry was known for her magnetic personality and her ability to make everyone around her feel valued and loved. Whether she was helping organize community art events or simply sharing a smile, Natalya’s spirit reflected genuine joy and deep kindness. Her role at the Art With Me Festival—a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and human connection—allowed her to channel her passion for art and people into something meaningful and transformative.

Her best friend, Natalie Rae Amrany, expressed the pain of her loss in a moving tribute shared on Facebook, capturing just how much Natalya meant to those who knew her:

“It is challenging to articulate a fitting farewell to someone who had such a profound impact. My beautiful best friend, Natalya Chytry, radiated light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew her. Her kindness and strength have touched countless lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
An intimate service to celebrate Natalya’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 21st at 10:30 a.m. CST at St. Joseph the Betrothed Ukrainian Catholic Church for family and close friends.
All are welcome to join in honoring her memory via the live stream which can be accessed on their Facebook page: St. Joseph the Betrothed Ukrainian Catholic Church Live Stream.
Rest peacefully, my dear friend. You will forever be in our hearts.”

Natalya’s sudden death has left her loved ones struggling to comprehend the loss of someone so vibrant, positive, and full of life. Friends have described her as a “shining light” and “a person whose laughter could brighten even the darkest day.” Her compassion, empathy, and natural ability to uplift others made her an invaluable friend and colleague.

At the Art With Me Festival, Natalya was more than just an employee—she was a creative force who inspired others to embrace the transformative power of art and community. Her work connected people from different walks of life and encouraged them to express themselves freely through creative experiences. Those who attended events she helped organize remember her enthusiasm and dedication to ensuring that everyone felt included and inspired.

Her loss has also resonated deeply within Chicago’s artistic circles, where she was admired for her authenticity and generous heart. Tributes have poured in on social media, with many sharing how Natalya encouraged them to pursue their passions and live life with purpose.

The memorial service for Natalya will take place at St. Joseph the Betrothed Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chicago on Tuesday, October 21st, at 10:30 a.m. CST. The service will be private and intimate, attended by family and close friends. However, those who wish to pay their respects can join virtually through a live stream available on the church’s Facebook page.

While the cause of Natalya’s death has not been publicly disclosed, the grief shared among those who knew her is a testament to how profoundly she impacted the lives of others. She will be remembered not only for her dedication to art and community but also for her unwavering kindness and strength of spirit.

Natalya’s passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile and precious life is. Her legacy will continue to live on through the memories she created, the friendships she nurtured, and the beauty she brought into the world.

As her family and friends gather to celebrate her life, they carry forward the lessons she taught—to love deeply, to live authentically, and to always shine light wherever darkness may linger.

Rest in peace, Natalya Chytry. Your laughter, love, and light will live forever in the hearts of everyone who had the honor of knowing you.