Obituary of Gregory F. Samoilick

SAMOILICK- Professor Gregory (George) F. Samoilick, age 85, of Derby, beloved husband of the late Vera Timoshuk Samoilick, died September 23, 2009, at Griffin Hospital, Derby. Prof. Samoilick was born in Bridgeport on June 21, 1924, son of the late Theodore and Anastasia Samoilick. He was truly a spiritual man, devoting his life to the Church. He attended the Pastoral School of Theology and Choir Directing in Pinsk, Russia. Following a special committee invitation, he was appointed as the Choir Director of Three Saints Russian Orthodox Church, where he served for 40 years until his retirement in 1989. During his tenure, Prof. Samoilick built the choir from 7 to over 70 voices; coordinated both Junior and Senior Choirs; Balalaika Orchestra, the Male Choir and performed in countless concerts. He will be long remembered for his passion for music, the Russian Language (as well as teaching it to all he came in contact with) and Church Slavonic. His last two years were pleasantly spent at the Crosby Commons in Shelton where he enjoyed the friendship of many friends and a special love of the Common's pet dog, Zoe. Prof. Samoilick is survived by his cherished and devoted daughter, Eugenia (Jeannie) Rosson and her husband, Raymond of Oxford; a sister, Stephanie Bielecki of Milford; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Nicholas and John Samoilick. A funeral Service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at 10:00 AM meeting directly at Three Saints Russian Orthodox Church, 26 Howard Ave., Ansonia. Interment will follow in Lakeview Cemetery, Bridgeport. Professor Samoilick will lay in repose in Three Saints Russian Orthodox Church, on Friday, September 25, 2009 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, Panakhida Service will be held at 6:00PM. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Three Saints Russian Orthodox Church or to Crosby Commons, 580 Long Hill Ave., Shelton, CT 06484. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Ave., Ansonia, is in care of arrangements. On line condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.