The Very Rev. Ioann E. Sviridov, 94, fell asleep in the Lord after a lengthy illness at his home here on December 23, 2004.
Born May 29, 1910, in Brykov, Volynia, to Evdokim Svirid and Macrina Daychuk, Father Sviridov immigrated to the US in 1928. He was a decorated veteran of the World War II, most notably coming ashore at Normandy on the fourth day of the D-Day invasion. After completing military service, he became choir director at Saint Michael the Archangel Church, Detroit, MI, where he met and married his wife of 54 years, the former Melanya Pawlick. He was ordained to the diaconate in 1957 and served at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Detroit. In 1963, he was ordained to the holy priesthood in Montreal, PQ, Canada.
Father Sviridov served as pastor of Holy Ascension Church, Albion, MI, and Saint John the Divine Church, Windsor, ON, Canada. In both parishes, he was responsible for revitalizing parish life. After his retirement, he continued to serve as guest celebrant at many parishes of various jurisdictionsthroughout the Detroit area. In addition to his pastoral duties, he was chief electrician for the Federal Building in Detroit.
Father Sviridov is survived by his wife, Melanya; his daughter and son-in-law, Anna and Dr. Edward Sarkisian; and two grandchildren, Sara and Aram.
Ten priests concelebrated funeral services on Sunday evening, December 26 at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Detroit. The following morning, His Eminence, Archbishop Job of Chicago and the Midwest concelebrated the Divine Liturgy with 13 priests and one deacon at the cathedral. Interment followed at Woodmere Cemetery, Detroit.
May Father Sviridov’s memory be eternal!