Borys Joseph Melnyk

Borys Joseph Melnyk, age 71 of Plymouth passed away on February 5, 2024.

Borys was born in New Haven, Connecticut on August 4, 1952 to his parents, the late Daria (née Horoshko) and Myroslav Melnyk.  He is the beloved and devoted husband of Carol A. Nowacki.  Borys is deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his brother,  Marco Melnyk,  his sisters-in-law Cynthia and Ellen, his brother-in-law Dale, and cousin Ihor.

After graduating from high school, he attained a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago, and two Masters Degrees from the University of Illinois and Wayne State University in Detroit.  His education led him to the automotive industry where he enjoyed a very successful career as an Engineer in the area of automotive electronics at Ford Motor Company and Visteon Corporation.  

Borys was of Ukrainian descent.  He was proud of his heritage and spoke fluent Ukrainian.  During the current conflict in Ukraine, with his close connection to the country and learning daily of the displaced citizens of Ukraine, his heart led him to supporting many of the refugee causes, offering relief for urgent basic needs.  His need to help others knew no boundaries.  His family recounts, that he once rescued family members who were experiencing car trouble during extreme frigid temperatures during a snowstorm.  He was able to reach them and get their car started.  His knowledge of automotive electronics and his desire to serve others went hand-in-hand that day, in helping his family during their roadside emergency. 

Borys was an active participant in the sport of kettlebell.  He was also a judge for national and international kettlebell competitions. As a participant, Borys won several gold medals in his division.

Borys also loved sailing. His family relates that he became an expert sailor and enjoyed the challenges connected to sailing and navigating across lake and sea.  His expertise was clearly evident and came shining through, even in the worst weather.  

Borys loved to travel and was fortunate enough to have visited six continents.  He loved the adventure that traveling has to offer and craved new experiences.  Upon his return, he had amazing stories to share about his experiences.

Borys was a very intelligent, honest, loving and caring person.  His love of adventure, travel, and his interests, gave him unique perspectives of the world.  He was recently interviewed for a publication in a journal which is read in 316 countries. 

Borys sincerely enjoyed his life.  His love for his wife, family and friends, and his compassion for others in need, will never be forgotten.

Friends may visit at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 47650 North Territorial Road, Plymouth on Friday, February 9, 2024 from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the Funeral Mass beginning at 10:30 A.M.

Borys will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan.