VALE STEFAN ROMANIW
The Ukraine Crisis Appeal together with the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) and Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) is deeply saddened and mourn the passing of Stefan Romaniw OAM and Co-Chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations.
Amongst Stefan’s many community and civic roles, he was one of the founders in 2015 of the Ukraine Crisis Appeal and he remained a staunch humanitarian advocate to his last day. On each of his trips to Ukraine he took the time to meet with our partners in Ukraine and review each of our projects. Through his visits he brought joy and hope to those effected by war. His warmth and compassion assured them they were not forgotten and that we would do our upmost to ease their suffering and help in maintaining Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Many Ukrainians in Australia will have memories of Stefan’s inclusive way of leading and mobilising us, always with a smile on his face and a joke when needed. His passion for Ukraine, Australia and his church were unmatched. We’ve lost a great leader and good Ukrainian, and the world and our Australian community is poorer for it.
We extend our deepest condolences to Stefans’s wife Anastasia, children Peter and wife Stevie, Theresa and husband Jeffrey and his beloved grandchildren. We thank them for the support they gave Stefan over the decades, allowing him to lead the Ukrainian diaspora.
May God grant Stefan eternal peace and may he now rest in his arms. He will never be forgotten - his legacy will live on.
Вічна і Світла Йому Пам’ять!