Jaroslaw Fedorijczuk

Jaroslaw (Jerry) Fedorijczuk, a man of profound intellect and deep cultural pride, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in Glenside, Pennsylvania. He was 77 years old.

Born November 13, 1948, in Friedrichshafen, Germany, to the late Dmytro and Tekla (Panchyshyn) Fedorijczuk, the family settled in Philadelphia. He attended Immaculate Conception Elementary School, St. Henry’s School and Cardinal Dougherty High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from La Salle University and a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from Drexel University, forming the foundation for a distinguished professional career.

Jerry dedicated his early career to the well-being of others and was employed as a social worker for the state of Pennsylvania. He later transitioned into the world of academia and specialized research as a medical and academic librarian. His expertise served several institutions, including: the Franklin Institute, Hahnemann University, Roxborough Memorial Hospital, La Salle University, and the Community College of Philadelphia.

A dedicated volunteer, Jerry spent many Saturdays managing the finances as Treasurer for the Ukrainian Heritage School and served on the Ukrainian Library committee for many years.

Libraries were a source of great interest to Jerry as was his love of books and history. To Jerry, understanding Ukraine wasn't just an academic exercise; it was a way to honor a rich, turbulent, and deeply significant legacy.  Of all the regions he studied, Ukrainian history held a place of importance. He delved into the complexities of Ukraine, from the medieval times of Kyivan Rus' to the struggles for sovereignty. He found the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the preservation of their distinct cultural identity—often against overwhelming odds—to be one of history's most interesting narratives.

Beyond his professional life, Jerry was an unassuming man, yet a man of spirited interests.  He was fiercely proud of his Hutsul heritage and was an active and dedicated member of the Cheremosh Ukrainian Hutsul Society. His mind and bookshelves were filled with the stories of the past; he was an avid reader of Ukrainian history and a passionate learner of global military history. 

Jerry, a devoted family man, cherished every moment spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. On the many memorable family trips, quick drives, or as the chef of Sunday morning breakfasts, he treasured every opportunity to be with the people he loved.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Dmytro and Tekla, his brother, George and nephew Jurij. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by those who survive him.

He leaves behind his wife, Karola, his children: Ulana (Sreekar), Alexandra (Michael), and Adriana and his beloved grandchildren: Priya, Lucas, Oliver, Pranava, and Emilia.  Also, survived by his sister-in-law, Jolanta, nieces Chrystyna Fedorijczuk and Stephania (Jason) Kushnir and their families. He will be remembered as a man who balanced a serious devotion to history and service with a deep love for his family and his roots.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing, Saturday, February 14, from 9:30 - 11AM at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park. Requiem liturgy will be at 11 AM with burial following at St. Mary's Ukrainian Cemetery, Fox Chase.

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