Valery Rukhledev

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to Valery. He left us peacefully on April 11th, 2026, at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of strength, passion, and a truly remarkable spirit. Most people knew him for his incredible achievements in wrestling – six gold medals at the Deaflympics! – and his dedication to the international sports community as president of the CISS. But I knew him as so much more than that. I knew him as a warm, mischievous, and endlessly generous man with a twinkle in his eye and a hearty laugh that could fill a room. I remember once, after a particularly tough training session, he pulled out a bag of homemade pierogi, still warm from the oven, and insisted we all share. That was Valery – always thinking of others, always wanting to share his joy. Family was everything to Valery. He cherished his children and grandchildren, and his home was always open to anyone who needed a comforting word or a delicious meal. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a doting grandfather, always eager to hear about the latest adventures in their lives. He instilled in them a love of hard work, perseverance, and above all, kindness. He wasn’t one for grand gestures, but his love was evident in the small things – a perfectly timed joke, a knowing glance, a hand always ready to lend support. He carried a quiet dignity and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that served him well both on and off the wrestling mat. Beyond wrestling and his work with the CISS, Valery found joy in simple pleasures. He loved tending to his garden, meticulously pruning his roses and proudly showing off his tomatoes. He was a passionate reader, always seeking to learn something new, and he had a surprisingly sharp wit that he loved to deploy with playful teasing. He found immense satisfaction in connecting with people from all over the world, bridging cultural divides through the universal language of sport. He truly believed in the power of sport to unite and inspire, and he dedicated his life to making that vision a reality. Valery’s impact on the Deaflympic community and beyond is undeniable. He championed inclusivity and fought tirelessly for the recognition and respect that athletes with hearing impairments deserve. He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched with his generosity, his passion, and his unwavering belief in the human spirit. We’ll miss you terribly, Valery. May you rest in peace.