During Cipywnyk's tenure as President of the UWC from 1993 to 1998,[5] he also held significant leadership roles within the Canadian community, serving as President of the Canadian Ethnocultural Council and as President of the UCC from 1986 to 1991. Additionally, he assumed the position of chairman of the Provincial Council of the UCC, and he chaired the Advisory Committee under the Saskatchewan Government for Relations between Saskatchewan (Canada) and Ukraine. Notably, he played a pivotal role in fostering diplomatic ties between Ukraine and Canada, being part of the official Canadian delegation that visited Ukraine to establish crucial contacts.[2]
Through Cipywnyk's efforts, Canada became the first Western country to recognize Ukraine's independence. Furthermore, he actively contributed to the commemoration of significant milestones in Ukrainian-Canadian history, including the All-Canadian celebrations of the 1000th anniversary of the Baptism of Rus-Ukraine and the 100th anniversary of the settlement of Ukrainians in Canada.[2]
Cipywnyk would go on to co-chair the Prairie Center for Ukrainian Heritage, he served as chair of the Advisory Committee on Saskatchewan-Ukraine ties. He also worked on the University of Saskatchewan Senate and the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews.[3]
Death
UCC notifies the Canadian Ukrainian community of the death of Cipywnyk, in Saskatoon on Sunday, March 9, 2003.[6]
Personal life
Cipywnyk belonged to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada.[6] He wed Maura,[7] and the two of them had many kids: Paul (Yumi); Raissa (Bill Choi); Raya and Benjamin, who are grandkids.[8]
Awards and recognitions
In August 2017, him alongside other former non-living presidents were honored at the 50th anniversary of the UWC.[9] Cipywnyk has earned the following honors:[2][3]
