It is with sadness yet with hope in the Resurrection that the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces the passing of V. Rev. Father Peter Staviski, who reposed in the Lord on March 31, 2024 at the age of 85.

“Father Peter was a man of great faith, especially committed to youth ministry, and someone whose zeal emanated throughout his priestly ministry,” shared His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “Though he has departed this life, we find comfort knowing that he is with the Lord whom he so faithfully served. I convey my deepest condolences to Presvytera Charlotte, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family who mourn his passing that they may be comforted by the Holy Spirit during this time of sadness.”

May his memory be eternal!

 

Obituary

The Very Reverend Father Peter Staviski fell asleep in the Lord, on Sunday, March 31, 2024 after 85 years on this earth.

Fr. Peter was born to Peter and Anna Staviski in 1939 in Chartiers Pennsylvania, his parents are from Bardejov, Slovakia.

In 1954, he entered the Theological School of Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Seminary in Pennsylvania where he received his degree in Theology. He graduated with a Master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Economics with an Emphasis in Psychiatry.

In 1962 he married Presvytera Charlotte and was ordained thereafter. He served his first parish in Pennsylvania at Peter & Paul’s Orthodox Church while carrying an administrative role at the Pennsylvania Psychiatric State Hospital. Father and Presvytera gave birth to their beautiful daughter Tanya and son Gregory and after their move to California, their daughter Tamara.

In the late 1960’s after moving to California, Fr. Peter on many occasions had the opportunity to meet with His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony of San Franciso. In their conversations regarding Fr. Peter’s passion to create a non-profit to help children with emotional disturbance, His Eminence accepted Father to consider serving under the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese while pursuing his passion. Father Peter was allowed the opportunity to assist many Sothern California Mission Parishes and support Priests in their Parishes while also groundbreaking several Non-Profit Schools and Treatment Centers for abused and neglected children.

Those who knew him appreciated Father’s zest for life and his passion to travel around the world with Presvytera while also visiting many Orthodox monasteries and sites from antiquity. Father Peter served and helped establish many ministries during his active service. He helped found and fundraise for the Mission Parish of St. George in Palm Desert, assisted at the Mission St. Basil in San Juan Capistrano, St. Constantine and Helen in La Costa and had a special place in his heart for St. Elias the Prophet in San Bernardino. Father also loved St. Sophia Camp and Ionian Village and provided confession and counselling to the youth. He made a special place in his life and heart because he believed in loving unconditionally, giving the gift of a second chance, and that everyone is created in an image of Christ. He loved being involved with the youth to grow our Christian faith. With children of his own, He officiated at their weddings and baptized all of his grandchildren. He loved them and was extremely proud of their accomplishments working in fields to help others.

In addition to his Presvytera, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Father is survived by his sister Irene Jeannes. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Tanya.

Bishop Ioannis of Phocaea, Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Fransisco, will be presiding over the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Basil Greek Orthodox Youth Ministry Fund , in loving memory of the Very Reverend Father Peter Staviski.