Father Russell Radoicich
Dean of the Pacific Northwest, Protopresbyter-Stavrophor, Serbian Orthodox Christian Church
Father Russell Radoicich is a dedicated and respected priest within the Serbian Orthodox Christian Church. Serving as the parish priest of Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church in Butte, Montana, he has played an instrumental role in maintaining and expanding the church’s outreach and spiritual life. Under his leadership, the parish has thrived, offering steadfast support to the Orthodox Christian community in Butte and the surrounding areas. Beyond his immediate parish, Father Russell has extended his pastoral efforts by providing guidance to several mission communities across Montana.
Known for his deep commitment to the Orthodox Christian faith and tireless missionary work, Father Russell has contributed significantly to the growth of the Orthodox Christian presence in Montana. His efforts have included the establishment of mission churches in neighboring communities, strengthening the faith throughout the state. Holy Trinity Church in Butte, under his leadership, has remained a cornerstone of the local Orthodox Christian community, often described as a kind of cathedral for Montana. Through his dedication to liturgical life, spiritual guidance and fostering unity among Orthodox Christians, Father Russell continues to inspire and lead.
Father Russell has been honored for his service and leadership with several distinctions. He has been elevated to Dean of the Pacific Northwest and awarded the “Jeweled Cross” and “Shield.” Additionally, he has been bestowed the title of Protopresbyter-Stavrophor (First Among Priests and Staff/Cross-Bearer). Father Russell is married and has been blessed with four children.
Kqyn Kuka
Tribal Liaison and Diversity Coordinator, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Kqyn Kuka is a descendant of the Blackfeet Nation and is the tribal liaison and diversity coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP). Kqyn develops, implements and administers agency diversity initiatives and programs. She has established and maintains strong relationships with tribal partners through a respectful government-to-government approach to diplomacy. A veteran state game warden with 13 years’ experience in enforcement, Kqyn studied fisheries and wildlife at the Salish and Kootenai College in Pablo, Montana. Currently in her fifth year as FWP’s tribal liaison, Kqyn works tirelessly to advocate for partnerships within Indian country across all FWP programs. Her slogan and working philosophy is, “From Stranger to Neighbor.”
John T. Hill
Licensed Undertaker and Clinical Coordinator, Hill Mortuary Service & Seminars
John T. Hill is a licensed undertaker in seven states and serves as the clinical coordinator for Pierce Mortuary Colleges, including Gupton-Jones, Dallas Institute and Mid-America. Based in North Carolina, he also works with James Funeral Home and Northlake Memorial Gardens. As owner of Hill Mortuary Service & Seminars, John provides trade embalming and continuing education nationwide. In 2024, he founded the RESTORE Program to instruct and inspire high standards of quality care in embalming, restorative art and open casket viewing. John’s passion and dedication extend beyond serving grieving families; he desires to further this sacred profession by educating and showing the value, purpose and benefit of funeral service. He strives to keep embalming and the preparation of the dead a relevant and continual practice. He aims to mentor and motivate current and aspiring funeral professionals, empowering them to excel, serve with excellence and make a difference.
