Frank Skoretz

With great sadness and heavy hearts, the family of Pastor Frank Skoretz announce his passing at AccentCare Hospice & Palliative Care of Michigan on February 19, 2025, at the age of 91. Frank's life was a testament to God's guidance, love, and miracles. From his early years, it was clear that God had a special purpose for him. As a devoted servant of the Lord, Frank's ministry touched countless lives, and his faithfulness remained steadfast throughout his life. Early Life & Education: Born on November 19, 1933, in the Buchanan, District of Saskatchewan, Canada, Frank was the 11th child of 14 born to Wasyl and Katherine (Bilski) Skoretz, who emigrated from Ukraine. The family worked hard to establish a farm on 1,000 acres of land, where Frank and his siblings grew up. After completing 8th grade in public schools in Buchanan, Frank attended Canadian Union College/Academy in Lacombe, Alberta, completing grades 9 through 12, some 550 miles from home. Frank then pursued higher education at Canadian Union College, where he earned a Bachelor of Theology degree. He furthered his studies at Potomac University in Washington, D.C., obtaining his Master’s in Theology. His educational journey continued at Andrews University and Loma Linda University, where he earned his Master’s in Divinity and Master’s in Education, respectively. Career & Ministry: Frank's pastoral work took him across Canada and abroad. He served in various churches in Canada and spent time in mission work in Central America, including Bay Islands, Belize, British Honduras, and Costa Rica. His pastoral ministry was marked by compassion and dedication to the spiritual growth of his congregations. After returning to California, Frank became deeply involved in education, serving as a Bible Teacher, Vice Principal, Principal, and School Counselor at Glendale Adventist Academy. He was instrumental in shaping the lives of many students, guiding them both academically and spiritually. Humanitarian Work & Global Mission: After the loss of his beloved wife, Elaine (Augustine) Skoretz in 1997, Frank's passion for helping others led him to humanitarian work in Ukraine. As Ukraine gained independence in 1992, Frank was elected Global Missions Director in 1994. In this role, he was instrumental in the establishment of 130 churches across Ukraine, helping spread the gospel to many communities. In 2001, Frank married Kalyna M. Birmele, Director of KTF – Medical Development of Ukraine. Together, they played a pivotal role in the establishment of Ukraine's first Christian University in Bucha, near Kiev. Their work also included the development of multiple medical clinics in various parts of Ukraine, where they provided much-needed healthcare to underserved communities. Family: Frank was a proud father of four children: Sherylle Renee Martin, Bradley Dean Skoretz, Patricia Dawn Cline, and Judith Anne Coleman. He also had three stepchildren: Ricardo E. Birmele, Mark O. Birmele, and Heidi K. Birmele-Anderson. Frank was blessed with six grandchildren: Dr. Travis C. Martin, Brent T. Martin, Dr. Michelle K. Skoretz, Maria L. Fletcher, Lauren E. Lim, and Preston F. Cline. His family also includes eight step-grandchildren: Justin O. Birmele, Bryan J. Birmele, Esq., Christian Birmele, Michael B. Birmele, Annika C. Anderson, Eric Ruiz, Ivar Ruiz, and Stefan Ruiz. Additionally, Frank leaves behind one great-grandchild, Kaimani R. Lim, and eight step-great-grandchildren: Anakin K. Birmele, Ysabella K. Birmele, Matilda L. Birmele, Danika S. Birmele, Zara K. Birmele, Kai A. Ruiz, Isla C. Ruiz, and Zuri A.Ruiz. Legacy: Frank’s life was a testament to God's love and purpose. His dedication to the Lord and his community left an enduring legacy of faith, love, and service. His family takes comfort in knowing that when Frank stands before the Lord, he will hear the precious words: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” While we may not always understand God’s plans, we trust that in time, all will be revealed. The mysteries that troubled us in this life will be made clear, and we will understand that our unanswered prayers and disappointments were part of God’s greater plan. Though we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that Frank’s work on Earth has left a lasting impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Private family services were entrusted to Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, Plymouth. To share a message with the family, please use the Share a Memory tab on this webpage.

Frank Skoretz

November 19, 1933 - February 19, 2025