Orest Peter Samitz

Passed away peacefully at the Oakwood Park Lodge Retirement Residence on January 6, 2024 at the age of 82. He was born on Friday, August 22, 1941, in Niagara Falls, ON to Peter SAMITZ (1900-1993) and Nellie Anastasia SAMITZ (1905-1985). His loving wife 51 years, Luba Valarie SAMITZ, passed away on July 7, 2020.

Lovingly remembered by his children Alex, Marika, Andrew, adopted grandchild Connor, sister Jeanie, nieces and nephews Ann, Donna, Ivanna, Steven and Michael

Orest founded the traveling ensemble Ukrainian Dunai Dancers in 1967 who performed for Queen Elizabeth. In 1985 he was recognized for his community involvement with the dance group by the Government of Ontario. In October 2017 the dance group celebrated its 50th anniversary. Orest's father, Peter SAMITZ, built the Fiddlers Green Motel in Niagara Falls which Orest took over in the 1960’s. The business closed in 1991. He was heavily involved in promoting Niagara Falls tourism while he owned and operated the motel and participated in various tourism boards.

Special thanks to staff at the Oakwood Park Lodge retirement home for caring after Orest in his final years.

Service of Remembrance of Orest’s life will be held at the Fairview Cemetery (4501 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls ON.) On Thursday May 02, 2024, at 12:30pm.

All are welcome to attend.