By Elena Markov, Local Heritage | Chilliwack Today | May 26, 2025
Fourth-generation Chilliwack family transforms 77-year-old St. Demetrius into community asset
The historic St. Demetrius Ukrainian Orthodox Church on Victor Street has found new life under the stewardship of a local development family committed to preserving Chilliwack’s architectural heritage.
Brothers Mark, Tony, and Lee Gore, alongside their sister Jill Hall, completed the $801,000 acquisition of the 1948-built church in January following a competitive bidding process. The purchase price exceeded the original asking price of $750,000, reflecting strong community interest in the property’s future.
Quick Decision, Long-Term Vision
The Gore family’s decision came together rapidly. After learning about the sale on January 10, they submitted their winning bid just 24 hours later, competing against multiple interested parties.
“The timeline was compressed, but we recognized the opportunity to preserve something meaningful to our community,” Mark Gore explained during a recent site visit.
The family’s connection to the building runs deep. As fourth-generation Chilliwack residents who grew up on Fairfield Island, the church has been a constant presence throughout their lives.
Tony Gore reflected on their motivation: “This building represents decades of community history. Rather than see it potentially demolished, we wanted to give it a future that honors its past.”
Comprehensive Restoration Underway
The renovation project has addressed both structural and aesthetic needs across several months of work. Updates include fresh interior and exterior paint, flooring replacement, plumbing system upgrades, and window installations. The team has taken special care to preserve and reintegrate the original stained glass elements.
The building’s journey spans multiple congregations. Originally constructed as Christ Lutheran Church in 1948, it became home to St. Demetrius Ukrainian Orthodox Church in 1971 before the recent sale.
Community Response and Future Plans
When the Ukrainian Orthodox congregation initially listed the property, members worried about potential demolition for redevelopment. An online petition was launched to advocate for preservation, though the Gore family was unaware of this campaign when they submitted their offer.
The developers have prioritized finding a church group to lease the restored space, maintaining its religious purpose. They first approached the original Ukrainian congregation about returning as tenants, though discussions remain ongoing as of late May.
Alternative uses, including potential conversion to a daycare facility, would require additional modifications to meet regulatory requirements.
Heritage Preservation Track Record
This project aligns with the Gore Brothers’ established commitment to historic preservation. The family previously restored private military quarters (PMQs) at the former CFB Chilliwack site, now part of Garrison Crossing development.
Even the youngest family member understands the preservation mission. Nine-year-old Jack Gore, Mark’s son, articulated the project’s importance: “Old buildings like this are part of Chilliwack’s story. Building apartments here would erase something that can’t be replaced.”
Looking Forward
The restored church represents both preservation success and community opportunity. Religious facility development continues evolving across British Columbia as congregations adapt to changing demographics and facility needs.
Tony Gore emphasized their community focus: “We’re Chilliwack people who believe in protecting what makes our city special. Historic buildings connect us to previous generations.”
Interested church groups or organizations can contact realtor Danielle Beausoleil at 604-316-4407 or [email protected] for leasing information.
The St. Demetrius renovation demonstrates how private investment can serve public heritage interests, creating sustainable futures for buildings that might otherwise face demolition pressure in growing communities like Chilliwack.
