In Honour of Rev. Reuben Schmunk, former General Treasurer of The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC), and Hannah Schmunk

Rev. Reuben Schmunk passed away in the early hours of the evening on July 24, 2025, at 93 years old. Hannah Schmunk, his wife of 72 years, passed away just six weeks earlier at age 92. A former executive officer of The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, Rev. Schmunk served as general treasurer from 1989 to 1996.

Desiring to serve the Lord from a young age, Reuben went to Bible college. After graduating he married Hannah, his partner in life and work. Reuben and Hannah’s journey of ministry took them across British Columbia and across Canada. Together, they pioneered churches, grew congregations, and ministered in many communities.

Reuben became a credential holder with the PAOC in 1953, serving in many churches in the B.C. and Yukon District. In Coal Harbour, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Reuben restored a fishing boat to minister to remote villages. From 1955 to 1982, Reuben served as the lead pastor in several churches throughout B.C. He started at New Hope Christian Fellowship in Princeton, where he built the church from the ground up. Later, he served as the lead pastor of Revelstoke Pentecostal Church, Bethel Tabernacle in Quesnel, Elim Tabernacle in Port Alberni, and Oasis Pentecostal Church in Kamloops, remaining in each community until the church had flourished and was firmly rooted. From 1982 to 1989, Reuben served as superintendent of the B.C. and Yukon District.

In 1988 at PAOC’s General Conference in Hamilton, Ont., Reuben was elected to the position of general treasurer. He and Hannah moved to Toronto, where Reuben worked at the International Office, providing stellar leadership through the difficult years of financial recession. Then at the 1994 General Conference in Calgary, Alta., upon the Conference’s decision to combine the offices of general treasurer and general secretary, Reuben was elected to that new role. Once again, he provided leadership at a critical time, bringing these two departments together and guiding their administration.

Hannah was the heart of the home, always present for her children after school and nurturing a warm, open household. A true partner in ministry, Hannah’s contributions were countless. She facilitated women’s groups, taught Sunday school, played the piano, and made their home a hub of hospitality and fellowship. Hannah had a gift for connecting with people. She was friendly, outgoing, and a natural encourager. Hannah cherished her role as grandmother, later planning legendary family reunions in Kelowna and Penticton. Hannah loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and took great pride in all their accomplishments. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, and kindness.

After retiring in 1996, Reuben and Hannah returned to British Columbia and settled in Kelowna, where Reuben became the seniors’ minister at Evangel Church. Their time in Kelowna was rich with connection and purpose. When they moved into The Chateau, he began a weekly Bible study—a gathering that was both appreciated and well attended. Loved by many, both residents and staff, they remained a steady presence of faith and kindness in the community.

Reuben and Hannah are survived by their daughter, Linda (Barry), son, Eugene, 13 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. Reuben was predeceased by his loving wife, Hannah, his brother, Gil Schmunk, and his grandson, Jeremy Kurtz.

With files from the PAOC B.C. and Yukon District and PAOC credential records.

Photo of Reuben Schmunk © PAOC Archives. Photo of Hannah Schmunk courtesy the Schmunk family.

Photo on home page © istockphoto.com.