Archimandrite Pitirim [Stehnach]

ELLWOOD CITY, PA [OCA]

Archimandrite Pitirim [Stehnach], 90, fell asleep in the Lord on the evening of Wednesday, July 10, 2019.

Born in Conemaugh, PA on August 15, 1928 to the late Michael and Mary [Glova] Stehnach, he was the sixth of nine children.  He served for seven years in the US Navy and Marines, after which he attended Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, New York, NY.  He was ordained to the diaconate by Archbishop Ireney on December 4, 1962 and to the priesthood by Archbishop Sylvester on April 27 of the following year.  On October 14, 1966, he took monastic vows.  He was elevated to the dignity of archimandrite on the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.

Father Pitirim faithfully served parishes of the Orthodox Church in America for over 50 years in New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.  He also served as personal aide and driver for Archbishop Kyrill of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania for over 20 years.  After retiring on his 85th birthday in 2013, he attended divine services at the Monastery of the Transfiguration, Ellwood City, PA and Saint Elias Parish as his health permitted.

He is survived by brothers Paul and Steven Stehnach and several nieces and nephews, as well as numerous spiritual children.  He was greatly appreciated for his practical and loving spiritual guidance.

Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 14 at the Monastery of the Transfiguration, Ellwood City, PA.  The Funeral for a Monastic will follow at 6:00 p.m.  The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 15, followed by interment in the monastery cemetery.

May Father Pitirim’s memory be eternal!