Dmitry I. Mikhalchuk, 77, of Elkhart, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in the Emergency Department at Elkhart General Hospital at 7:41 a.m., following a sudden illness. Born in Kostopil', Ukraine, on November 27, 1947, Dmitry was the cherished son of Ivan and Olga Mikhalchuk, who preceded him in passing, along with his brother, Ivan Mikhalchuk, Jr., and sister Valentina Rudenko.

On August 14, 1976, Dmitry married the love of his life, Larisa P. Kravchuk, in Rovno, Ukraine. For 49 years, Larisa and Dmitry walked through life together with enduring love, faith, and devotion. She survives him, carrying forward his legacy of steadfast belief and commitment to family. Dmitry's memory is also treasured by his children, Peter and Michael Mikhalchuk of Elkhart; Maria (Alexander Bauters) Mikhalchuk of Osceola; and Lilian M. (Nicholas) Milianta-Wells of Pendleton, South Carolina. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Sophia Milianta and Oliver Wells of Pendleton, and Luka Uryga-Mikhalchuk of Kent, Washington. Dmitry is also survived by his sisters, Maria Dudnikova of Kostopil'; Vera Golyshchykhina of Omsk, Russia; Nadia Mikhailchuk of Kostopil' and Luba Gripich, also of Kostopil'.

In accordance with his wishes, Dmitry requested cremation and a time of remembrance. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart will host a visitation on Friday, February 21, 2025, beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 6:00 p.m., officiated by the Reverend Jeremy Sarber, Chaplain, Billings Funeral Home. Dmitry will then return home with his family to be lovingly remembered in their hearts.

Dmitry's life was a testimony to courage, resilience, and unshakable faith. Born into a devout Ukrainian Christian family, Dmitry grew up worshiping in underground churches during the oppressive era of Soviet rule. His family faced severe religious persecution, but their faith remained steadfast. In 1990, Dmitry led his family in a bold escape from this persecution, journeying through Italy on a Jewish visa and eventually finding a new beginning in the United States. Their immigration story is one of grit, sacrifice, and triumph, as they embraced freedom without losing the traditions and values they held dear.

In Elkhart, Dmitry worked as an industrial laser operator, retiring after more than 20 years at Mor-Ryde. A self-taught craftsman, he exemplified determination and adaptability, transforming his skills from a cobbler in Ukraine to mastering complex machinery in his adopted homeland. At home, Dmitry was the quintessential "fix-it" dad, always ready with a tool in hand and an ingenious solution for any problem. His warm smile was always considered a beacon of light and comfort, and the affection that he gave to those he loved was palpable.

His faith, however, remained his guiding light. Dmitry was a man of profound spiritual conviction, deeply rooted in the Word of God. He taught Bible classes, served as a guest pastor, and lived his faith through quiet acts of love and service. Though a man of few words, Dmitry's wisdom and insight resonated deeply with all who knew him. He found joy and purpose in encouraging his family to walk with God, modeling a life of humility, grace, and steadfast devotion.

Dmitry's family remembers him as a humble, hardworking man whose heart was wholly dedicated to his Savior and his loved ones. His legacy is one of unyielding faith, selfless love, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right. He leaves behind a family deeply inspired by his example, walking forward with the light of his life guiding their way.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21)

"Моя родина — моя найбільша любов."