Meet the compassionate professional behind iKare Funerals & Cremations.
Dedicated to honoring lives with dignity. We bridge tradition and modern care to support families during their most difficult moments.
My name is Irina Kushnerova, and I believe I was chosen to become a funeral director.
After many years dedicated to medical studies—I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Loyola University Chicago and later an Associate degree in Nursing from Herzing University—I found my true calling in the funeral profession, a path that has remained close to my heart ever since.
I began my career in 1997 and have never looked back. I graduated with honors from Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Wheeling, Illinois, joined the Pi Sigma Eta National Morticians Fraternity, Omega Chapter, and became a Licensed Funeral Director in 2000. I spent 15 years working for a large funeral conglomerate before choosing to follow my vision of providing more personal, compassionate, and family-centered care.
“In 2012, I founded iKare Funerals, built on the belief that every family deserves dignity, respect, and unwavering support during life’s most difficult moments.”
I moved to the United States from Belarus in 1991 and have proudly called Chicago my home ever since. While I specialize in Eastern European burials, I am honored to serve families from all communities, cultures, and faiths.
At iKare Funerals, we understand that saying goodbye to a loved one is one of life’s most profound challenges. Our mission is to walk beside you with compassion, dignity, and care—honoring each life with meaning and respect. We believe every life tells a unique story, and it is our privilege to help you share that story in a deeply personal and thoughtful way, with careful attention to every detail.
Many years of experience have taught me profound lessons and revealed the true meaning of both happiness and sorrow, as well as the importance of lending a helping hand.
We are committed to creating meaningful tributes while offering clarity, comfort, and peace during a difficult time—so families can focus on remembrance, healing, and celebrating a life well lived.
I am here for you—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
