We learned that the Archpriest Eugene Vansuch unexpectedly fell asleep in the Lord at his home in Bethlehem, PA. on March 23, 2008.

Many of us remember Father Eugene from when he was installed as our pastor in 1971.

A recent graduate of Saint Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary, he had a lot of talent and energy.  In his pastorate of some five years he applied himself to reorganize the choir, the Sunday School and other church organizations – to this day our choir continues to sing from the books that Father Eugene established and re-organized, his spiritual children in the choir adding to the repertoire.

From Saint George in 1976, he went on to pastor other communities – first at Saint John Chrysostom Church (Albanian Archdiocese – OCA) in Philadelphia, then at Saint Nicholas Church (Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania – OCA) in Bethlehem, PA.

From June 1, 2005 to December 31, 2007, Fr. Eugene served as the Executive Director of the Fellowship of Orthodox Stewards for the Orthodox Church in America.  In that capacity he visited our community more than once, to share with us the work of the OCA.

From January 1, 2008, until his repose, he was the rector of St. Vladimir Orthodox Church in Trenton, NJ.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Fran, and three sons: Damian, Basil and Father Jason – together with their families.

A more complete obituary is posted on the official OCA website at:

http://www.oca.org/News.asp?ID=1508&SID=19

The Saint George community will offer a Memorial Service on Sunday, March 30 following the Divine Liturgy, and commemorate him at every Service for the 40 days.

May Fr. Eugene’s Memory be Eternal!