We Remember
WORONCHAK, Isadore
March 21, 1930 — January 25, 2022
Very Reverend Archpriest Isadore Woronchak died peacefully in his sleep on January 25, 2022. He is lovingly remembered by surviving family: Dianne, his wife of 66 years; his daughter Linda (Nester), his daughter Debbie (Patrick), his son Darrell, & his son Kevin (Joanna); 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; his sister Ollie (Harvey), his sister Anne, his sister Jean, his brother Ewhen, & his sister Angie (Gary); as well as numerous nieces & nephews, extended family, and many friends & parishioners.
Father Isadore was born on March 21, 1930, to Nicholas and Barbara Woronchak in Garland, Manitoba. When he was 23 years old, he took his teaching training and in 1953 embarked on a 35-year teaching career at schools in Manitoba and Alberta, and 22 of those years were in Kelowna, BC. In that time, Fr. Isadore was a choir director for church and community for over 30 years. He continued his education, receiving his BA at the University of Manitoba and MA at the University of Spokane.
In 1982 while still teaching, Fr. Isadore began Theological studies at St. Andrew’s College in Winnipeg, MB. He was ordained as a deacon on January 26, 1986, serving in Kelowna, Kamloops, Vernon, and other BC parishes. He was ordained into the Priesthood on May 15, 1988, at St. George’s parish in Victoria, BC. Fr. Isadore served Surrey parish for 20 years, then transferred to Kelowna and served until he was 84 years young.
Father Isadore loved sports, he curled, and he enjoyed a game of golf – especially in Hawaii.
Father Isadore and Dobr. Diane’s home was always open to anyone in need of support and refuge, and they were greeted with much love and kindness. Truly an example of a servant’s heart.
The last 2 years of his life were spent at Spring Valley Care Home until the Lord took him home. The family would like to thank all the care staff who respectfully and lovingly cared for “Father”.
The funeral rite of a priest will be held Sunday, January 30, 2022, at 6:30 pm. On Monday, January 31, 2022, at 9:00 am The Divine Liturgy with the conclusion of the funeral rite of a priest will be held at Sts Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 1935 Barlee Rd, Kelowna, BC. For those unable to attend, you are welcome to join online by livestream – see links below.
Вічная Пам’ять/ Eternal Memory
Funeral rite of a priest, Sunday, January 30, 2022, at 6:30 pm, Livestream: Click Here
The Divine Liturgy, Monday, January 31, 2022, at 9:00 am, Livestream: Click Here
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
RIP Uncle Izzy…❤️!…you were the beacon of light of our family and an inspiration to how a person can inspire others with love and kindness!…you will always be considered my second dad…one that I always looked up to in my youth and beyond! I will NEVER forget you until the day I join you upstairs…❤️❤️❤️!
We are so sorry of Fr. Isadore’s passing . He was Peter’s fellow teacher at KSS for many years . God bless & keep you His Care Dianne & family . Much love & prayers . Peter & Helen
Dear Diane and family.
We cannot express in words how deeply sorry we are for your loss. So many years of memories we will treasure forever. May you know that we are thinking about you and send all of you our deepest heartfelt sympathy.
With love
Mike, Les, Donna and family
Darrell, so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. My condolences to your family as well. I will always remember your dad as one of my nicest high school teachers.
Sending mine and my families deepest condolences to Deb and her family. Mr. Woronchak was a great man, and will be missed by many people. R.I.P. Mr. Woronchak
I am sorry to hear about Uncle Izadore. My condolences to you Auntie Dianne and Family. I will always remember the visits to your home and the gentleness of uncle Izadore. Sending hearts and prayers. Love Shannon
Father Isadore: You were a wonderful man, husband, father, grandfather, priest and teacher. You baptized my sons and one time explained to the parishioners that Orthodox Christians aren’t swatting flies, but making the sign of the cross! May your memory be eternal: Вічная Пам‘ять
Gjoa and family
Sending our condolences to your
Families. Father was our teacher at Gilbert Plains collegiate. And a cymbals leader. He always gave us a test the next day after our cymk nite. So there was little time to study for it. He was a great person.
Our condolences are with you during this difficult time. I will always remember the kindness that Auntie Diane and Uncle Isadore and family showed to us on our family trips to Kelowna. He was a great man and I know you have many memories to cherish. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Love Karen and Brent
Dobr. Diane – We wish to express our sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your loved one – Husband, Father and Grandfather.
Father Isadore’s passing leaves an emptiness in our hearts. We appreciated his friendliness, and his humble devotion for many years at our Orthodox Church in Surrey, it’s religious activities, the Ukrainian culture and heritage.
So, Dear Family – time will partially heal the sorrow and heartache… as shall we, hope that a kind deed, word or thought will help to lessen the grief.
Cherish the precious memories of Father Isadore with a smile.
May his Memory Be Eternal.
Angie, Joe and Gerry.
Dear Dobr Dianne and children, Our condolences and prayers . Eternal be his memory
Dear Diane and family , our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. May Isadore rest in peace.
My prayers and thoughts are with all of you’d. RIP Isadore.
Kevin, I’m very sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Much love to you and your family. (((hugs)))