Fr. Nika
Dearest Ira, Larissa, Petya: I am so sorry for your loss and wish you strength in these difficult times. It is a deep loss for us all. I already miss him for a number of reasons. God works in mysterious ways. Anton told us that he was planning on compiling a book on the various icons of the Mother of God. He was an accomplished artist and this was his favorite icon style. What a blessing to die on Her feastday and on the feastday of the parish he devoted his life to and worked so hard in. He also said that his last wish was to die in his wife's arms and this was fulfilled. He told me recently that his marriage had good times and trying times (like all marriages), and that ever since he was diagnosed, Irene was there for him and they drew closer. The sickness became a catalyst that confirmed and renewed their love for one another. Anton said he was the luckiest man alive for having her. I think we were all lucky for having known this man. May his memory be eternal! Vechnaya Pamyat dorogoi Anton. In Christ, o. Nika
