Roman Orenchuk

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ron, in the home he built in 1976.  Reunited with his loving wife, Ann (2001), and his son, Steve (2012).  Dearly loved father of Dennis (Debbie), and cherished grandfather of Kali Samlal (Justin) and Alex.  Predeceased by his five siblings Olga, Walter, Maria, Irene, and Eugene.

 Ron was only 16 years old when he was taken off the streets  in the Ukraine by the Germans, and wound up digging trenches in Germany.  He was there for awhile before escaping to Belgium, where he was recaught and sent back to Germany.  But, then he was given the opportunity to go to England, which he accepted.  During his time in England, he met and married Ann, and came to Canada in June of 1952.  Ron had many stories to share, but indicated that it was during the war, that he grew up.  The first time he actually reconnected with his parents was when he went back to the Ukraine in 1972.  Ron was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage and was a long standing member of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, as well as being very involved in the Ukrainian Centre on Adelaide  Street, serving at one point as president of the club.  In his lifetime, Ron had many different jobs, but, his final area of work was in construction as a contractor.  When Ron and Ann came to Canada, they lived with the relatives that sponsored them, but eventually, Ron built the only 2 homes he ever lived in for the rest of his life.  Ron was a very proud man of the work that he did to the best of his ability, but family always came first.  After his wife died, Ron perfected making her beloved cabbage rolls into his 90s.  Especially in the last part of his life, Ron enjoyed watching the sports he loved – tennis and soccer.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2024 at O’Neil Funeral Home (350 William Street, London) from 5 – 8 pm with Panachyda at 7 pm.  There will be a private family service at St. Peters Cemetery the next day.  A special thank you to all the responders after Ron’s passing, especially Jen, who spent much time with us after.

Online condolences & Guest Book at www.oneilfuneralhome.ca