The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) is deeply saddened to learn of Mykhailo Paripsa’s passing. He was a well-known and much-loved member of the global Ukrainian community, President of the “Ukrayintsi Kazakhstanu” [Ukrainians of Kazakhstan] Association, a UWC member organization.
Mykhailo Paripsa’s passing represents an irreparable loss for his family, for Ukrainians in Kazakhstan, for UWC, and its members worldwide.
Within UWC, Mykhailo Paripsa was known as the long-time Ukrainian community leader from Kazakhstan. He completed his earthly journey with Ukraine in his heart, always working tirelessly to strengthen its independence, and to preserve Ukrainian national values beyond his homeland’s borders. Mykhailo Paripsa worked for the UWC on a global level for many years, by actively responding to current events, and regularly participating in UWC’s congresses and AGMs.
We will also remember Mr. Mykhailo as a man of universal human virtues, those of innate wisdom, intelligence, and kindness, and as a person with a wonderful disposition, and natural sense of humor.
The UWC acknowledges the leading role Mykhailo Paripsa played in developing Ukrainian community life on the national level in Kazakhstan as founder and chairman of the “Ukrainians of Kazakhstan” Association since 1999.
Mykhailo Paripsa devoted great efforts to developing the local Ukrainian community in Pavlodar, including the Ukrainian Cultural Society, its choir, bandura ensemble, school, Ukrainian radio programs, and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church of the Holy Apostles Sts. Peter and Paul. Mr. Mykhailo was an active member of the Presidium of the Ukrainian World Coordinating Council, and of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, until his death at the age of 76.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Mykhailo Paripsa was awarded UWC’s highest honor: the St. Volodymyr the Great Medal, in addition to his numerous state awards from Ukraine and Kazakhstan, including the Order of Merit of Ukraine, (II and III degrees), and the Order of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Dostyk” [Friendship] (II degree), and the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan’s “Gold Medal.”
UWC’s leaders and members deeply mourn Mykhailo Paripsa’s passing, and pray for the repose of his blessed soul: Rest In Peace!
