A Journey of Resilience: The Bosy Family Immigration Story

During the pandemic, Orland Park resident Peter Bosy examined his late parents’ immigration documents, letters, and photographs. What he discovered offered him a new perspective on their experiences. He compiled these records into a narrative highlighting immigrant resilience, focusing on two individuals who faced numerous challenges and emerged stronger.

The story is featured in the exhibit, “Immigrants Journey,” displayed at the Orland Park Public Library until the end of November. Peter Bosy emphasizes the exhibit’s importance, stating it provides insight into the experiences of immigrants. “Because of what’s going on, it’s important. Are they (immigrants) worth having? My parents were very industrious,” he said.

The library exhibit chronicles the lives of Michael Bosyj and Eugenia Lopashchuk from 1942 to 1969. Born in 1924, the Nazis forced them from their Ukrainian homes as teenagers to work on German farms. After the war, they moved separately to Canada and met in Quebec. Married in 1950, they lived in Windsor, Ontario. Peter’s father worked as an asbestos miner, while his mother worked on a farm.

In 1954, with the assistance of Katherine and Harry Harsyn, Michael’s aunt and uncle, they immigrated to Chicago, settling in the Brighton Park neighborhood. Michael worked in maintenance and as a union painter, while Eugenia cleaned offices. They became U.S. citizens in 1967, changing their last name to Bosy.

Peter Bosy found a 1956 letter from his father to his aunt and uncle. It described the difficulties in Canada and his eagerness to complete immigration paperwork to move to Chicago. This letter, along with other documents and photos, helped Peter understand his parents’ history.

As is common with many immigrants who endure traumatic events, Peter’s parents rarely spoke of their hardships. “They would just say, it was a hard life coming to Chicago,” he mentioned. Despite their struggles, they offered him support, helping him succeed as a photographer.

Peter has begun archiving his life and remembers growing up in a vibrant cultural setting, much thanks to their parish, Nativity B.V.M. Catholic Church. He received encouragement at the parish grade school as well. “The nuns noticed I had talent and would have me do posters and fliers,” he said. “They told my parents, Peter’s got talent, we should nurture it.”

His mother took most of the family images he found at home. “She was very supportive of my natural talent as a developing artist, encouraged me to do my best and purchased the necessary supplies to achieve my goal,” he recalled. His father was also a source of support, contributing practical skills and encouragement.

Mary Lynn Maloney, the library’s former Outreach Services assistant, suggested Peter exhibit his work there. The current staff also welcomed the idea. Sarah Kleiva, the library’s community engagement manager, noted that Peter’s family story is both ancient and universal, resonating with many as it reflects the experiences of immigrants.

Peter, recognized as the library’s November Artist of the Month, will discuss the exhibit at a reception on Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. at the library, at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave.