Mitred Archpriest Vladimir Petorak, 94, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 28, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Matushka Elizabeth for over 70 years and a beloved father to his children, Paula (Victor) Yuchnievicz, Greg (Gail) Petorak, MaryEllen (Robert) Higdon, and Vlad (Maria) Petorak. He was cherished by his nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Born in Jermyn, PA in 1930, he graduated from Archbald High School, where he excelled in baseball, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

He was called to the priesthood shortly after high school and graduated from St. Tikhon's Monastery in 1953. In 1954, he was assigned to his first parish, Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Niagara Falls, NY, where he faithfully served for 14 years.

In 1968, Father Vladimir was reassigned to Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, PA, where he oversaw the construction of the new cathedral. He retired in 1995, yet continued to serve in Alden Station until the parish left the canonical church.

In 2019, he joyfully returned to Holy Resurrection Cathedral and was honored with the Mitre on September 1.

Affectionately known as Padre, Father Vladimir was a patient, kind, and loving man who touched countless lives with his compassion and warm personality. Whether you knew him briefly or for decades, his caring nature always stood out.

He found peace in the outdoors, tending to his gardens and enjoying daily walks. After retirement, he delighted in helping at the family restaurant, greeting everyone with a friendly smile and sudsy handshake.

Padre will be deeply missed. His legacy of kindness and love lives on through his family and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 401 E Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705, or Hospice of the Sacred Heart. His family extends heartfelt thanks to Father Innocent Neal of Holy Trinity and to Sacred Heart's hospice angels, Kim, Kat, Emma, and Deacon Pat.

The Order for the Burial of a Priest will be served at 11 a.m. Friday at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 401 E. Main St, Wilkes-Barre, 18705 followed by interment in Fern Knoll Burial Park Dallas. The main celebrant of services will be His Eminence, The Most Reverend Mark, Archbishop of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania. Friends and Relatives are invited to a visitation service to be held from 10 a.m. until the service.