Metropolitan Emeritus of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada, His Eminence John (Stinka) Has Reposed

It is with great sadness that we announce that our dearest uncle and friend Archbishop John Stinka, passed away on September 19, 2022 at Hospice at Glengarda in Saskatoon at the age of 87 years. John was born on January 14, 1935.

He was the youngest of 12 children of Nick and Annie (Spezowka) Stinka from the Drobot District south of Buchanan. His early education was obtained at Dobronowitz School and secondary education at Yorkton Collegiate High School. John's initial career interests were varied. After receiving his teaching certificate, he taught at Hryhoriw Elementary School, a country school near Preeceville. As well, he spent 10 years as a grocery butcher in Saskatoon. He was pleased to have been trusted to serve the Jewish clientele with kosher quality meats. These experiences would provide a great foundation for future interactions with people young and old and from all walks of life. Wherever he resided, he was always an active member of the Ukrainian Orthodox community involved with church, choir, and church organizations. John was proud of his Ukrainian heritage and was knowledgeable in its history.

Being raised on a farm on the prairies was another aspect of his life that he shared with great pride. These qualities highlighted the man, the priest, and the individual that he was. A special interest kept resurfacing and in 1969, John enrolled in theological studies at Saint Andrews College in Winnipeg. He successfully completed his studies in 1972 receiving a Licentiate in Theology. In 1974 he was ordained and assigned to duties in Moose Jaw and then Kamsack. He was elected to become a bishop in 1983 and in 1985 was transferred to Edmonton where he was assigned as Bishop of Edmonton and the Western Diocese of Alberta and British Columbia. In 1990, John was elevated to archbishop. He regarded his time in Edmonton as his most enjoyable and rewarding assignment and one that he fondly remembered and always cherished. In 2005, John was elected to be the Metropolitan of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada and moved to Winnipeg. He had the opportunity to serve pastorally throughout the whole country. He held this position until poor health caused him to retire in 2010. He then moved to Saskatoon to be closer to family and friends, but continued to serve liturgically whenever requested to do so.

Throughout his time of service and continuing in retirement, John was considered an honest, kind and approachable servant of the Lord. Retirement allowed him to reconnect with family and friends. It was also an opportunity for him to rest and relax and to deal with some health issues. As well, John continued to be responsible for maintaining the care of his sister, Katie. But there was always time for travel and fun. He enjoyed socializing and taking part in the activities at Ilarion Residence. He was always up for a game of pool or bingo and enjoyed listening to musical entertainment. John was happiest when he was with others even though a hearing and a voice impairment made communicating a challenge. His sense of humour never left him despite the fact that aspects of his personality did change with his diagnosis of dementia. When John's health began to deteriorate, it was necessary for him to move to Greenfield Care Homes in 2021 where more support could be provided. Here he was fortunate again to be with compassionate people who took great care of him. The family's heartfelt gratitude is extended to the administration and staff at Ilarion Residence and Greenfield Care Homes who were devoted to caring for Uncle John. His final days were spent at Hospice at Glengarda where he received excellent care from a dedicated staff. The family is appreciative of their spiritual care. John was predeceased by his parents, Nick and Annie Stinka, his brothers and sisters, George (Doris) Stinka, Arseny (Victoria) Stinka, Mary (Peter) Senkiw, Lillian (Harry) Skwarchuk, Sophie (Harry) Chobotar, Wasyl (Anne) Stinka, Vicky ( Matt) Pidhorney, Katie Stinka and by numerous nieces and nephews.

Prayer Services will be held on Thursday, September 22, 2022 at 7:00 p.m, with Funeral Service on Friday, September 23, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. Both services will be held at the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of Holy Trinity, 919 20th St. West, officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Ilarion, His Grace Bishop Andriy, Rt. Rev Mitred Taras Makowsky and assisted by local clergy. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Orthodox Cemetery and lunch at the Ukrainian Orthodox Auditorium.

To share memories and condolences, visit www.parkfuneral.ca Arrangements entrusted to James Werezak, Park Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Archbishop John may be made to the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of Holy Trinity and/or U.O.C.C. relief fund for the war in Ukraine.

To view the livestream funeral service please visit https://orthodoxsaskatoon.org/.May he rest in the Lord, whom he loved and served.

Vichnaya Pamiat! Memory Eternal!

https://thestarphoenix.remembering.ca/obituary/john-stinka-1086238520