Michael PATER

PATER, Michael Michael Pater, a widely known and accomplished artist and painter, died Sunday (July 25, 2010) at home in Colchester surrounded by his family. He was 79. A son of the late Pachomej and Catherine (Riba) Pater, he was born on April 8, 1931 in L'viv, Ukraine. Mr. Pater began his art training in Hanover, Germany from 1945 to 1949. After immigrating to the United States in 1949, he continued his studies at the American Academy of Art in Chicago and the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. An elected member of the Lyme Art Association, Mr. Pater exhibited his works in many museums and galleries, receiving numerous awards and recognitions. His paintings are represented by private and corporate art collections across the United States. He is survived by three children and spouses, Christopher and Julie Pater of Tolland, Cynthia and Kuhrt Bidorini of Tolland and Christina and Richard Fairbanks of Enfield; seven grandchildren, Matthew, William, Nicholas, Jacob, Erin, Paige and Ryan; a sister, Nadine Pikas of Olney, MD; his former wife, Renita Pater of Tolland; numerous extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by three brothers, Joseph, Leo and Roman. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated at St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Colchester by Father Ihor Papka and Deacon Michael Puscas. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Lyme Art Association, 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme 06371 or Hospice Southeastern Connecticut, 227 Dunham Street, Norwich 06360. Care of arrangements was entrusted to the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home of Colchester.