Fr. Steven J. Basarab
December 29, 1961 – July 5, 2024
Parastas – Thursday, July 25 at 6:00 PM at St. Joseph’s Catholic parish (9731 Elm St, Chemainus BC)
Funeral Divine Liturgy – Friday, July 26 at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic parish (9731 Elm St, Chemainus BC). Reception at the parish hall to follow.
Burial – following the reception the burial will take place at St. Michael and All Angels Cemetery (9489 Chemainus Road, Chemainus BC)
It is with a heavy heart that I announce the sudden passing of my brother, Fr. Steven J. Basarab at the age of 62.
Predeceased by parents Stefan and Erna, brother Bill and half-brother Nikolay; Fr. Steven is survived by his sister Mary Ann (Ken), as well as aunts, nieces, nephews and extended family.
When Steven was in his early twenties, he attended the Seminary in Ottawa, later becoming a deacon and then a priest of the Diocese of New Westminster. He looked after his flocks, first in Kamloops, then later in Vernon and Grindrod, BC, before moving to Nanaimo. He spent his last years living in Duncan, but still making regular trips to Nanaimo generously helping all those he could reach.
Many people may not know that before becoming a priest, he took a bartending course after graduating from high school. When he completed the course, the class was going to a bar to celebrate, however, he could not attend due to the fact that he was only 18 years old and technically underage! He also worked at Noos Pizza, which was a very popular place at the time in Chemainus, making pizzas. Steven also learned to play the drums and had his drums set up in the double garage of the family home. There was a time in his life that he was also considering joining the Armed Forces, however, the priesthood called him at the same time, so he made his life choice.
Sadly, in the last years of his life, Father Steven suffered from many health issues. It brings the family comfort knowing that he is in a better place with his family members who have gone before him and is no longer suffering.
He will be greatly missed by his sister and extended family. There was a great respect between Fr. Steven and his sister, even if they had different views.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Fr. Steven’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.