Condolences from Bishop Iov regarding the passing of Fred Pewarchuk (treasurer of Orthodox V parishes). Chipman. May 25, 2018.
Honarable Fathers, rector of Orthodox V parishes Fr. Alexei! Dear Lil, sons and grandchildren, dear brothers and sisters!
Today, is a day of sorrow for Patriarchal Parishes. A great toiler for Orthodoxy has departed this life; similar to Victor Lopushinsky, ‘diak’ Daniel Lopushinsky, and his son choir director Sergei, and John Antoniuk. Fred has done a lot for our Orthodox Church in Canada. He was a wise man and had great spiritual strength. Fred was able to carry many responsabilities on his shoulders similtanuously.
In relation to his passing, it will be very difficult not only for his family, wife and children, but for all of us, our parishes and this excellent temple. When I was invited, around 7 years ago, when Fred was very ill, near life and death, to visit him in the hospital; then through your prayers, the Lord extended his life. Fred continued to serve his Savior with double energy.
Recently, on the feast of Holy Ascension in Scaro, Fred lovingly said his goodbyes to me. Today, it is with sorrow that I come to say my goodbyes to him and to escort him to the Heavenly Kingdom! His soul left his body at the exact time that I pronounced the words ‘Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit’ in the temple at the Ukranian Village at the beginning of the Liturgy. For this reason I am convinced tha his soul departed with ease to God’s Kingdom, in love, joy, and peace!
All priests of Patriarchal Parishes and I have the most fond memories of him. I beleive that he, upon entering Heaven, will remember us in his prayers and continue to look over our parishes! God, willing, by his prayers, new young talented parishioners will surface in our church to continue his work.
Memory Eternal to Fred Pewarchuk! May he enter the best place in the Heaven of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!