IN MEMORIAM
The Most Reverend Peter M. Muhich, AC’89
The Diocese of Rapid City, South Dakota, announced “with sorrow” that its shepherd, Bishop Peter M. Muhich, died February 17, 2024.
“Bishop Peter, 62, was in hospice care after suffering from esophageal cancer. Please continue to pray for the soul of our shepherd,” the diocese said in a statement. “Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may your perpetual light shine upon him.”
Dr. Eugene J. Cooper, AC’67
Eugene Cooper, a non-ordained theologian in the Archdiocese of Cologne, was a student at the American College from 1963 to 1967. He was born in Stamford, Connecticut in 1941 and passed away on December 27, 2023, in Bensberg, Germany. He is survived by his wife Eileen, two daughters Déirdre and Niamh, and a son Brian.
Reverend Thomas E. Sutton, AC’69
Rev. Thomas Edward Sutton, died peacefully on March 24, 2023, surrounded by family, fellow priests and close friends at Brian’s House in Essexville, Michigan.
Tom graduated from St. James High School in Bay City, Michigan in 1960 and then chose to embrace his vocation of the priesthood at St. Paul Seminary in Saginaw. He was transferred to Holy Cross Seminary in LaCrosse, WI. He was sent to study theology in Louvain, Belgium where he spent four years being taught primarily in French – a language in which he only had a cursory background. He overcame that challenge with determination and success. His ordination on June 28, 1969 in Louvain, Belgium, was celebrated with his parents, his younger sister, Debra and younger brother, Patrick. He traveled extensively in Europe with his fellow seminarians before returning to his first assignment parish in the Saginaw Diocese. Additionally, Tom completed his Canon Law studies in Washington, DC., obtaining his Doctorate Degree.
Fr. Tom loved serving as a priest and a pastor and was known for his tireless dedication to his ministry. One such demonstration of his dedication is evidenced by his ability to commit each Gospel reading to memory. Fr. Tom was instrumental in the creation of Little Books under Bishop Ken Untener. Following Bishop Untener’s passing, he served as diocesan administrator from 2004 to 2005. Fr. Tom also served on the Diocesan Tribunal and as Vicar General and Vicar for Administration for the Diocese of Saginaw. Father Tom also served on a variety of committees and organizations within the community.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Gabriel Parish, Auburn, Michigan, Auburn Area Catholic Schools, Auburn, Michigan or the Wishes of Family. Read the full obituary online.
Maureen A. Kelly
Maureen Anne Kelly left this world on October 31, 2023 and was reunited with her loving husband, Paul Kapp.
Born of April 29, 1942, Maureen dedicated her life to the service of others while being heavily involved in the Catholic Church and a member of Alcoholics Anonymous.
In her early years, Maureen became a nun with the Sisters of Mercy in Buffalo, NY. After choosing to leave the convent, she furthered her education and received two Master's degrees relating to Theology- from Leuven, Belgium and University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC). As both a published author and a chaplain, Maureen inspired and guided many who she met throughout her life. Read the full obituary online.
Dr. Kurt Ewen, AC’93
Kurt Edward Ewen
September 6, 1964 – October 21, 2023
Kurt Ewen died at his Houston, Texas home surrounded by friends on Saturday, October 21, 2023. The son of Christa and John Ewen, Kurt was born September 6, 1964, in Orlando, Florida. Kurt was a resident of Houston, Texas for 6 years.
Kurt is survived by his mother, Christa Ewen; brother, Kevin Ewen; sister-in-law, Latricia Ewen, of Orlando, Florida; his nephew Erich Ewen of Orlando, Florida; his niece Meredith Ewen, of Seattle, Washington; preceded in death by his father, John Ewen.
Kurt began his lifetime in education at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida after he graduated high school. He received his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Barry University, a Master of Arts in Religious Studies from Catholic University of Leuven, and a Bachelor’s degree from St. Meinard College. Kurt was an ordained Catholic Priest and served at St. Margaret Mary in Winter Park, Florida for five years. He later returned to work at Valencia College as the Assistant Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Planning for 16 years.
Kurt moved to Houston, Texas in 2017 and joined Houston Community College, where he finished his career as Chief of Staff and Vice Chancellor of Strategy, Planning, and Institutional Effectiveness. He was also a valued member of the Chancellor’s Executive Council. A steadfast champion of community colleges, Dr. Ewen sought to improve the lives of students and others, including faculty and staff. His support of education, evidenced in part by the Ewen Family Endowed Chairs for Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards, which he established, is a testament to his commitment to higher education.
Kurt was diagnosed with ALS on February 24, 2021. Kurt demonstrated superhuman strength and endurance in the face of the challenges associated with ALS. He handled the everyday challenges with such grace and dignity and without fear. The fact that he was still smiling, laughing, and cracking jokes until the very end speaks a lot to his character and spirit. He was truly a superhero of a genuine nature.
A lot of people, upon receiving this diagnosis, would have folded in on themselves and just drifted through the following years, with a lot of self-pity, and that would be entirely understandable. But not Kurt. He kept working right up until almost the end of his life, driving HCC to develop and implement an Endowed Chair Program. Even while his health was deteriorating, he prioritized student learning and wanted to leave a legacy that would ensure that HCC students would have the best opportunities possible. He also wrote incredible poetry to help him deal with his feelings about his diagnosis. That's just who he was.
Kurt was honest, kind, supportive, candid, hilarious, and always provided lots of laughs and thoughtful conversations - even until the end. Kurt was an amazing force in this world and his goal was always to improve the lives of others through his work. He succeeded in so many ways both professionally and personally. He will truly be missed, and his legacy will live on through the lives of those who loved and respected him.
Prof. Dr. Luc De Fleurquin
Luc De Fleurquin died in June 2022. He was professor at the KU Leuven Faculty of Canon Law from 1976 to 2009. At the express request of the family, the funeral was held privately. A memorial service was held Sunday, June 26, at 11:45 am in Holy Family Church, Kerkplein, Edegem.
Read the Faculty of Canon Law announcement online.
Dr. George Alcser, AC’67
Dr. George P. Alcser, age 81, from northwestern Detroit, passed away on July 27, 2023. George was a student at The American College from 1963 to 1967. He leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Kirsten, his children, Christine and Marc (Lisa), his granddaughters Alexa (Diego) and Halle, his siblings, Peter (the late Lucy) and Helen (Sheldon), many nephews and nieces, as well as his extended in-law family in Denmark.
George’s passions were higher education and social justice, and he devoted his life to the service of others. He taught philosophy and religious studies at Marygrove College for 49 years and served as a trusted mentor to hundreds of students and faculty. During his lengthy tenure he founded and guided many interfaith groups. George retired as a distinguished Professor Emeritus and was honored with numerous awards for his exemplary service and teaching throughout his career. He was an active and vocal voice in faith-based communities, bringing together representatives of all faiths in open dialogues. George will be remembered for his inclusivity and acceptance of everyone whose life he touched.
Read the full obituary online.
Reverend Lawrence T. ReilLy, AC’64, Spiritual Director at the AC’72-75.
The Reverend Lawrence Thomas Reilly, a senior priest of the Diocese of Yakima, died Monday, July 17, at his home in Kennewick. He was 84. He had different cancers for over 30 years, but he rejected being identified as a cancer patient. His spirituality was communion with the sacrifice of the cross of Christ, for others. The family is grateful to Father Robert Turner and many other brother priests who helped to care for Fr. Reilly in his illness.
For many years Fr. Reilly made presentations in parishes on topics such as medical ethics, drawing on his studies and work in the hospital system. A letter written by him for the Washington State Catholic Conference’s End of Life planning booklet continues to offer clear, straightforward guidance to Catholics for making decisions about their care.
Granted Senior Priest status in July 2012, Fr. Reilly was in residence at St. Andrew Parish in Ellensburg until 2017, when he relocated to the Tri-Cities, where he primarily served at St. Joseph Parish in Kennewick, while continuing to serve on the Diocese Priest Personnel Board. He was known for offering very frank advice to bishops, while also acknowledging other points of view. He also served as a vicar for priests, then an emeritus vicar, providing advice and spiritual direction to many priests of the diocese. Read the full obituary online.
David S. Baronti, AC’80(s)
Kevin Codd wrote in June 2023 to share with our fellow alumni know about the death of David S. Baronti who studied theology at The American College in the early ‘80s for the Diocese of Spokane. Following his studies and ordination to the diaconate, David requested to serve in the diocesan mission in Guatemala. He was assigned to Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán in the highlands, an indigenous community. There he was ordained to the priesthood, learned the local language, K’iche’, and spent the next 46 years of his life serving the people of Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán with dedication and courage. He remained among his people there even during the military dictatorship and civil war that left over 100,000 people dead, mostly from the indigenous communities.
David retired as pastor when he reached the age of seventy a few years ago.
Kevin knew David well across these many years and posted a reflection on his website:
Reverend Cliff Cabral, AC’78
The Reverend Clifford J. Cabral, age 72, Pastor Emeritus of St. Joseph’s Church, Pascoag, RI, passed away on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at Saint Elizabeth’s Home in East Greenwich. Born in Fall River, MA, he was a son of the late John J. Cabral and Lillian (Luciano) Cabral. He was also a brother of the late John C. Cabral.
He attended Tiverton Elementary and secondary Public Schools followed by the College Seminary of Our Lady of Providence, Warwick (BA in Literature) and The Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium (MA in Religious Studies). After a Deacon program year at St. Catherine’s Church, Warwick, he was ordained a priest on June 30, 1979, in his home parish of St. Christopher, Tiverton, by Bishop Louis E. Gelineau. Father Cabral served as Assistant Pastor of St. Luke’s, Barrington, St. Matthew’s, Cranston, and then seventeen years as Pastor of St. Joseph’s, Pascoag until ill health forced his early retirement. Read the full obituary online.
Reverend Charles P. Quinn, AC’66
Reverend Charles P. Quinn, 82, Pastor Emeritus of St. Eugene Parish in Chepachet, died Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at Landmark Medical Center in Woonsocket.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, son of the late Joseph H. and Grace (Dawson) Quinn, he attended St. Michael School and LaSalle Academy, both in Providence.
In preparation for the priesthood, he studied at Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Warwick, and in the American College in Louvain, Belgium. He was ordained a priest on June 4, 1966 in the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul in Providence by Bishop Bernard M. Kelly.
In addition to his other duties, he served on the Priests' Personnel Board of the Diocese (1989) and in 1995 made sabbatical studies in Fairbanks, Alaska at the Jesuit Retreat House. Father Quinn volunteered for 24 years as a soccer coach at Mt. St. Charles Academy, Woonsocket.
A Concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial for the repose of Father's soul will be offered on Tuesday, March 28, at 10am, at St. Eugene Church, 1251 Putnam Pike, Chepachet. View the full obituary online.
Prof. Em. Dr. Jan Lambrecht
Jan Lambrecht was born in Wielsbeke, West Flanders, on April 23, 1926. He entered the Jesuits on Sept. 7, 1945 in Drongen, studied philosophy in Nijmegen and theology in Leuven. After his priestly ordination in 1959 in Leuven, he studied at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome and received his doctorate there. From 1965, Jan Lambrecht taught exegesis and related subjects at the Jesuits' own Faculty of Theology in Heverlee and the Center for Ecclesiastical Studies. In 1969 he became a prof at KU Leuven, where he was dean of the Faculty of Theology from 1983 to 1990.
In 1991 he became a member of the Pontifical Biblical Commission for a five-year term. After his retirement in 1990, he taught by invitation at major seminaries in Flanders, at the Bible Institute in Rome and in the US. In 2011 he received an honorary doctorate from Le Moyne College in Syracuse NY (USA). His first publication was his 1967 dissertation on the Mark Apocalypse. In November 2022, on the occasion of his 96th birthday earlier that year, his latest book of exegetical commentaries was presented at a special academic session at KU Leuven.
Funeral
The farewell Eucharist will be celebrated on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. in the church of Heverlee. Following the funeral is burial in the De Jacht cemetery in Heverlee.
Mortimer C. Newton, AC’64
Mortimer C. Newton passed away on Sunday morning, February 12, at the age of eighty-three, surrounded by his family and his wife, Mary Mc Gann. Mortimer (Mort) was born in 1939 in West Warwick to the loud and proud Newton family. In John’s Gospel we read that in the beginning there was the Word, and the Word guided Mort throughout his life.
Preceded in death by his parents Mortimer W. and Margaret Newton, brother of Robert D. and sister-in-law Patricia Newton of Charlestown, RI and Wayland, Massachusetts, survived by his sisters Mary Jane Goudreau and her husband Paul of New Jersey, and Margaret Deslaurier and her husband Joseph of Charlestown, RI and his brother-in-law John McGann FSC of Narragansett.
Mort graduated from LaSalle Academy in 1956 and attended Our Lady of Providence Seminary and the University of Leuven, Belgium. In June 1964, Mort was ordained as a priest for the Diocese of Providence. He spent his time in service teaching at Our Lady of Providence High School Seminary and LaSalle Academy, his words bearing durable impact on his students, who for decades could recount his lectures if not always the challenging lesson he was trying to explain. He brought the Living Word to his parish flocks at Saint Catherine's Parish Apponaug, Saint Michael's Providence, Saint Rita's Oakland Beach, and Blessed Sacrament Providence, serving for twenty years in various capacities in the Diocese. His ministry extended beyond the church and into the neighborhoods. He was a founding member of the community organization PACE (People Acting Through Community Effort), which was one of the first grassroots organizations in Rhode Island. View the full obituary online.
Reverend Raymond Tetrault, AC’60
Surrounded by his close friends, his brother priests, and members of Rhode Island’s Latino community, Father Raymond Tetreault, 87, drew his last breath on January 3, 2023, two days shy of his 88th birthday.
Raised in the Lippitt Hill neighborhood by Conrad and Elizabeth Carroll Tetreault. Raymond was one of five children. He is survived by his brother Joseph and his wife, Maria of Glastonbury, CT. He was predeceased by his sister Irene Meenagh of Coventry and two brothers, Conrad of Costa Mesa, CA, and Leon of Cumberland, RI. He has many nieces and nephews: Robert Tetreault, Dawn Sather, Lynn Winstead, and Sharon Lepore, all in Southern California. Stephen Meenagh of Coventry, RI, Suzanne Christensen of Boston, MA, and Leslie Christenson of New Hampshire. He has ten grand and great grand nieces and nephews.
Father Ray’s early education began at the Holy Name School in Providence, followed by LaSalle Academy, Our Lady of Providence Seminary, and the University of Louvain in Belgium, where he was ordained in 1960.
Reverend Bob Hawkins, AC’75, OLM Pastor and Staff Member at the AC, 1987-1992
The Reverend Robert Hawkins, 74, Pastor Emeritus of St. Luke Parish, Barrington, died Thursday, December 15, 2022.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, a son of the late Francis R. and Marion (McConnell) Hawkins, he attended Garden City Elementary School in Cranston.
In preparation for the priesthood, he studied at Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Warwick, and at the American College in Louvain, Belgium. He was ordained a priest on September 12, 1975 by Most Reverend Louis Gelineau.
Father Hawkins served as assistant pastor at Holy Trinity Parish, Central Falls (1975 – 81) and as administrator of the team ministry at Sacred Heart Parish, East Providence (1981 – 87). In 1987, he was named pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Waterloo, Belgium, and served there until 1992, when he was appointed Chaplain at the University of Rhode Island, Kingston.
In 1996, Father was appointed administrator of the team ministry at St. Kevin Parish, Warwick, and then pastor of St. Kevin Parish. In 2005, Father Hawkins became pastor of Saint Luke Parish, Barrington, and remained there until July 1, 2018 when he retired as pastor emeritus.
In addition to his parish work, Father served on the diocesan Grievance Board; as chairman of the Seminary Advisory Board (1985 -87); Continuing Education of the Clergy Fund Advisory Board (1994 – 2000); the diocesan Implementation Committee (1995); diocesan Director of Campus Ministry (1996); Council of Priests (1999 – 2002; 2003 – 06; 2006 – 09; 2019 - present); Priests Personnel Board (2003 – 05; 2006 – 09; 2013 – 16); College of Consultors (2000 - 05; 2006 – 11; 2019 - present); Our Lady Queen of the Clergy Advisory Board (2012 – 14).
Father completed sabbatical studies at the Washington Theological Union, Washington, DC in 2005.
Reverend William F. Wegher, AC’91, ACAA Treasurer
Wegher, Reverend Father William Frank, formerly of Flushing, now serving the Flint area (also known as Fr. Billy), age 59, died Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022, at McLaren Flint, Michigan. The funeral service was celebrated at 11 am on Monday, November 7th, 2022, at St. Robert Catholic Church in Flushing, MI. Bishop Earl Boyea and Fr Mark Przybysz concelebrated the Mass.
William was born in Manhattan, New York on October 6th, 1963. He was baptized at St. Joseph Hungarian Catholic Church in Flint, MI, and attended St. Robert Catholic Church, where he received his sacraments of First Holy Communion and Holy Confirmation. His confirmation name was Giovanni, after his God-father Carlo Lubiato. At St. Robert, he began the seminary program in the eighth grade. Bill graduated from Flushing High School in 1981, with honors. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan-Flint in History. During his senior year of college, he was part of the honors program, where he studied abroad in Paris, France. After his return, he began his studies at St. John's Seminary in Plymouth, MI, and for five years at the American College of the Immaculate Conception in Leuven, Belgium. Bill was a Second Lieutenant Chaplain in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, stationed in Germany and England during his stay in Europe in the late 80s and early 90s.
Fr. Bill was ordained a Roman Catholic Priest in the Diocese of Lansing, MI, on August 31st, 1991. Read the full obituary online.
Archpriest John G. Petro, AC’68, Spiritual Director at the AC 1984-1989
Archpriest John G. Petro, retired priest of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, died on Oct. 29 at St. Clair Hospital. Son of Nicholas and Elizabeth Orlosky Petro of Canonsburg, PA. Attended Canonsburg schools and was Student Council president of Canon McMillan’s first graduating class in 1960. Entered Byzantine Catholic Seminary, graduated from Duquesne Univ. in 1964, and from Univ. of Leuven, Belgium with master’s degree. Ordained Byzantine Catholic priest on Sept. 29, 1968 and served for the next 54 years. Friends received at St. John Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, PA, on Wed., Nov. 9 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Parastas service at 7 PM. Funeral Liturgy Thurs., Nov. 10 at 10 AM at Cathedral. Interment will be private. Read the full obituary online.
Reverend Donald P. Senior, C.P.
The Catholic Bible Association of America (CBA) mourns the death of Donald P. Senior, C.P., President Emeritus, Chancellor, and Professor of New Testament at Catholic Theological Union, who passed from this life on November 8, 2022 at the age of 82. He earned first a licentiate, then his doctorate, from KU Leuven, studying under Frans Neirynck and writing a redactional study of the Matthean Passion Narrative. Don then taught at CTU 50 years — and served for 23 years as its president. He had been in CBA almost as long, having been elected to membership in 1973. He served as a book review editor and as an associate editor for CBQ, as well as CBA president (1997-98). View the full obituary online.
Reverend Monsignor David J. Joyce, Jr., AC’68
HOLYOKE – Monsignor David J. Joyce, 79, passed away Friday evening at the Holyoke Medical Center after a long illness.
Msgr. Joyce was born in Holyoke on Nov. 18, 1942 to David and Gertrude (Dowd) Joyce. After graduation from Holyoke High School, he did his undergraduate studies at Boston College and completed his seminary training at the American College, University of Louvain, Leuven Belgium.
Ordained at St. Michael’s Cathedral Springfield on June 29, 1968, his first assignment was as parochial vicar at St. Mary Westfield, during which time he was the Newman chaplain at Westfield State College. In 1978 he was named director of the Spanish Apostolate in Holyoke, and in 1981 he also was named the pastor of the former Sacred Heart Parish in Holyoke. In 1987 he was named pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Feeding Hills, and in 1992 was appointed pastor of the former Our Lady of Hope Parish, Springfield.
In addition to his parish assignments, Msgr. Joyce served on numerous diocesan committees including the Commission for Ecumenism, the Building Commission, Clergy Commission, Priests’ Senate, and the Presbyteral Council. He also served as vocations director, co-vicar for clergy, consultor and dean of both the Greater Holyoke Deanery and the Hampden East Deanery.
In 2006 he was named Chaplain of Honor to His Holiness, assuming the title of Monsignor.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians James A. Curran Division One and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians of Hampden/Hampshire Counties honored Msgr. Joyce with the 2015 Christian Charity Award; and in 2019 he was named Springfield’s St. Patrick Parade Marshall.
Read the full obituary online.
Sister Rina Cappellazzo, OP, Director of Pastoral Formation
Sister Rina Cappellazzo, formerly known as Sister Jeanne Dominic, died on Thursday, July 14, 2022, at the Dominican Life Center in Adrian, Michigan. She was 91 years of age and in the 71st year of her religious profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation.
Sister Rina spent more than 25 years ministering in education in Chicago; Escanaba and Detroit, Michigan; Tucumcari, New Mexico; Casa Grande and Phoenix, Arizona; and Santa Cruz, California.
She served seven years as a campus minister at the Arizona State University Catholic Newman Center in Tempe and a year as the Associate Director of Liturgy at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. She ministered four years as Director of Staff Development for the Diocese of Phoenix and four years as Director of Pastoral Formation at the American College, in Leuven, Belgium. She also ministered four years as Vicar for Women Religious for the Diocese of Orange, California, and five years as Vicar for Religious for the Diocese of Tucson, Arizona.
All are welcome to participate in Sister’s services via live stream.
The Vigil Prayer will be held at 7:00 p.m. Monday, July 18, 2022, in St. Catherine Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered in St. Catherine Chapel at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 19, 2022. Prayers of Committal will be held in the Congregation Cemetery.
The Reverend Clem Currans, AC’74
Clement W. Currans, son of James Henry and Salome Ann (Antoine) Currans, was born February 14, 1948 in Emmetsburg, Iowa. He died on June 18, 2022. He began his education at St. Ellen’s Catholic School, attending first through eighth grade. He then went on to complete his high school education at Emmetsburg Catholic School, graduating in 1966. Clem continued his education, attending Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, for four years and then to the American College Seminary in Louvain, Belgium, for four years. While studying in Belgium, Clem visited with his relatives in Alsace, France, and developed a friendship with cousins Danielle (Ayme) and Jean-Michel DePoux, entertaining them on their trips to Iowa.
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
11:00 A.M.
Holy Family Parish - Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Graettinger, Iowa
Leonard Wilkuski, AC Alumnus and former Vice-Rector from 1978-1983
Leonard F. Wilkuski, mentor to many, friend to many more, died peacefully at his home in East Tawas, Michigan, Tuesday, January 25, 2022, going home--we hope, pray and believe--to the heart of our Loving God. Leonard was born in Omer, MI, April 29, 1937, eldest child of Frank Joseph and Stephanie (Majeski) Wilkuski. He was always proud of his Polish ancestry and his East Tawas roots. Leonard graduated from high school and continued his educational journey at universities in Canada and Belgium, receiving graduate degrees in both philosophy and theology. His European experiences left him with a lifelong appreciation for Belgium, travel and the vocation of academic theology. He, however, also believed that a solid academic background was the best preparation for caring pastoral ministry and service. For nearly 40 years, Leonard served God’s people in parish ministry throughout the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw, in each of the Tricities, the thumb, and at his initial pastorate in Omer. He also returned to Belgium to serve on the staff of the American College in Louvain. Leonard loved the people, scripture and the sacraments, parish work and ministry. He was, in turn, loved by the people he served for his easy-going manner, down to earth approach, warm hospitality and generous caring for everyone including youth and the downtrodden. When his parish ministry ended, Leonard began serving as a volunteer prison chaplain, once again displaying his care for all including those on the margins, his love of scripture and pastoral service, and his ability to bring Gospel healing, hope and joy to God’s people. His return to East Tawas also afforded him an opportunity to serve as part of the Iosco County Historical Society. May our loving God now welcome Len to his heavenly home. Read the full obituary online.
Reverend John G. Greaves, AC’58
Reverend Father John G. Greaves, 90, Pastor Emeritus of the former St. Ann Parish, Cranston, died on Monday, December 6, 2021.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late John G. and Mary A. (Bailey) Greaves, he attended Saint Paul School in Cranston and LaSalle Academy in Providence.
In preparation for the priesthood, he studied at Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Warwick and at the American College in Louvain, Belgium. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 29, 1958 by Bishop Joseph P. Hurley in Louvain, Belgium.
Following his ordination, Father Greaves was assigned assistant pastor at the Cathedral of SS Peter and Paul, Providence, where he served until his assignment as assistant pastor at Saint Michael Parish, Providence in 1964. In 1968, he was transferred to Saint Rose Parish in Warwick as assistant pastor and served as assistant pastor at Saint Teresa Parish in Pawtucket from 1971 – 1976.
In 1976, Father Greaves was appointed pastor of Saint Mary Parish in Providence, and in 1991 he was transferred as pastor to Saint Ann Parish, Cranston where he served until 2001 when he retired as Pastor Emeritus.
Father Greaves was the Dean of Providence Deanery #4 for two terms and served as Chairman of the Priests' Personnel Board.
After retirement, he resided in Bristol, and spent considerable time in Naples, Florida, assisting there in various parishes. He resided in Naples, Florida at the time of his death.
Read the full obituary online.
Reverend Harold R. Sikorski, AC’56 and AC Spiritual Director
Rev. Fr. Harold “Harry” Sikorski, a senior priest of the Diocese of Saginaw, died on Sunday October 10, 2021. He ministered as a priest for more than 65 years in many ways including serving as spiritual director, superintendent of schools, overseas missionary and more. Son of the late Peter and Antoinette (Bartkowiak) Sikorski, Harold was born December 15, 1929 in Saginaw, the fifth of seven children. He attended St. Rita Grade School, Central Junior High, Saginaw High and St. Joseph High before entering St. Joseph Minor Seminary, Grand Rapids and later Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, Michigan, where he graduated with a degree in philosophy. He completed theology studies at the University of Louvain, Belgium and was ordained to the priesthood there on July 1, 1956 by Bishop Russell J. McVinney. He was incardinated into the Diocese of Saginaw on May 22, 1954. Fr. Sikorski received a M.A. in Education from the University of Michigan in 1958. Father Sikorski served as pastor of Holy Spirit, Shields; Sacred Heart, Saginaw; St Mary of Czestochowa, Kinde; St. Edward the Confessor, Kinde; St. Paul the Apostle, Ithaca and St. Martin de Porres, Perrinton. He served as assistant pastor at St. Bernard, Alpena and also served at St. Mary, Alpena.Fr. Sikorski served as the assistant principal of Alpena Catholic Central in Alpena and also as Diocesan Superintendent of Schools and Assistant Superintendent of Schools. He also served as a spiritual director at The American College in Louvain, Belgium. As a missionary in South America, Father Sikorski served at Our Lady of Lourdes, Recife, Pernambuco (Brazil). Father Sikorski became a senior priest of the Diocese of Saginaw on July 1, 1994.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his sister, Sister Darlene Sikorski O.P.; his brother, Thomas (Rosemarie) Sikorski; many nieces and nephews. Fr. Sikorski was preceded in death by three sisters, Mary (Walter) Gardyszewski, Geraldine (Thomas) Athanasiou and Irene (John) Schultz; and his brother, Casimir (Dorothy) Sikorski.
Obituary from the Snow Funeral Home
Reverend Mr. Mark J. Leonard, AC’80
Mark J. Leonard, 69 of Schroon Lake, passed away on Sunday, August 1, 2021, at his home with his family by his side. Mark was born in Albany, the son of the late James J. and Emma Michela Leonard. He attended the Cathedral Academy and was a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy, class of 1969. He then earned an associate degree from Hudson Valley Community College and a bachelor's degree from Siena College, class of 1973. He completed a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies from the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium in 1980, and a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in religious studies in the Diaconate Formation Program of the Diocese of Albany from 1995 - 2000. Mark served as a teacher at The Academy of the Holy Names in Albany from 1974 - 1975, and at St. Peter's High School in Saratoga Springs from 1975 - 1976. He served as a lector, eucharistic minister, and faith formation teacher from 1973 - 2000, and was ordained as a deacon on October 7, 2000. He then served as a deacon and parish life director, and as director of the Diaconate from 2013 - 2019 before being assigned as parish life director at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Watervliet. Mark was employed by the New York State Department of Correctional Services from 1981 - 2010. During that time, he worked as an officer, counselor, and director of Ministerial, Volunteer and Family Services. Mark was responsible for all religious, family and volunteer programs for over 72,000 inmates, 200 chaplains of various faiths, and over 6,000 volunteers. Mark married Eileen Williams in 1981, and she predeceased him in 2001. In 2009 he married Kimberlee Fagley, who survives him along with his children, Victoria Fenichel, Ashley Tessier, Claire Miller (Nicholas), Marissa Leonard, and Matthew Wyland (Anna); his grandchildren, Logan and Zoe Fenichel; his siblings, Mary S. Leonard, and Ann Louer (David); and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was also predeceased by his sister Michele Leonard. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 6, at 10 a.m. in St. Madeleine Sophie Church, 3500 Carman Rd, Schenectady, NY, 12303. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Reverend Philip Snouffer, AC62
Father Philip Snouffer, who pioneered the use of information technology at the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s central office in the late 1980s and early 1990s, died Feb. 18 at Gilchrist Hospice in Towson. He was 83.
Born in Baltimore in 1937, Father Snouffer grew up in West Baltimore, where he was a member of St. Bernardine Parish. He attended its grade school and served as an altar boy.
Decades later, Father Snouffer remained dedicated to his childhood parish. Hutchinson said Father Snouffer had much success investing his savings over the years in the stock market. She said the majority of his estate will benefit St. Bernardine Parish as well as the University of Louvain in Belgium, where he studied in the late 1950s early 1960s.
At the University of Louvain, Father Snouffer earned an undergraduate degree in philosophy as well a degree in religious education. After graduating in 1962, he was ordained to the priesthood for the archdiocese in the university’s chapel.
He would later earn a master’s degree in library science from The Catholic University of America in 1970.
In the 1960s, Father Snouffer served as a librarian and teacher at several Baltimore schools, including Cardinal Gibbons High School. Through the 1970s and early 1980s, Father Snouffer served as an associate pastor at various parishes — including Ss. Philip and James in Homewood and Our Lady Queen of Peace in Middle River — and later became a chaplain for Franklin Square Hospital and Deaton Medical Center.
In 1985, Father Snouffer began to work for the Archdiocesan Department of Pastoral Planning and Management. His role there would eventually lead to the creation of the informational technology department at the Catholic Center. He retired in 1999. Text from the Catholic Review, by Tom Swift, February 23, 2021.
Reverend Monsignor Paul J. Langsfeld
Reverend Monsignor Paul J. Langsfeld, 14th Rector/President of the Pontifical College Josephinum, passed away July 9th at the Saint Jeanne Jugan Residence of the Little Sisters of the Poor in Washington, DC. Monsignor Langsfeld’s funeral arrangements are posted in the following online obituary.
Raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Monsignor Langsfeld was an avid scholar throughout his life and priestly ministry. He studied at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, the Pontifical North American College, and The Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. He spent seven years in parish work after his ordination for the Archdiocese of Washington, DC in 1977, then returned to Rome to serve with the Congregation for the Clergy. While there, he completed his doctorate at the Pontifical Gregorian University, after which he joined the faculty and administration of Mount Saint Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD.
The Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education appointed Monsignor Langsfeld as Rector/President of the Josephinum on June 6, 2003. There were many significant events that occurred during Msgr. Langsfeld’s five-year tenure. In 2005, the Josephinum was granted affiliation with the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome and began offering the pontifical degree Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology. In 2007, the A.T. Wehrle Memorial Library became a member of Ohio Private Academic Libraries, providing seminarians with access to more than 85 libraries statewide. In 2008, the Wacek Family Memorial Organ in Saint Turibius Chapel was installed and dedicated., 14th Rector/President of the Pontifical College Josephinum, passed away July 9th at the Saint Jeanne Jugan Residence of the Little Sisters of the Poor in Washington, DC. Monsignor’s funeral arrangements are pending at this time.
Raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Monsignor Langsfeld was an avid scholar throughout his life and priestly ministry. He studied at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, the Pontifical North American College, and The Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. He spent seven years in parish work after his ordination for the Archdiocese of Washington, DC in 1977, then returned to Rome to serve with the Congregation for the Clergy. While there, he completed his doctorate at the Pontifical Gregorian University, after which he joined the faculty and administration of Mount Saint Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD.
The Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education appointed Monsignor Langsfeld as Rector/President of the Josephinum on June 6, 2003. There were many significant events that occurred during Msgr. Langsfeld’s five-year tenure. In 2005, the Josephinum was granted affiliation with the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome and began offering the pontifical degree Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology. In 2007, the A.T. Wehrle Memorial Library became a member of Ohio Private Academic Libraries, providing seminarians with access to more than 85 libraries statewide. In 2008, the Wacek Family Memorial Organ in Saint Turibius Chapel was installed and dedicated. See the link in the first paragraph for funeral arrangements on August 20-21, 2021.
Sister Dr. Lorelei Francis Fuchs, SA
Sister Dr. Lorelei Francis Fuchs, age 70, a Franciscan Sister of the Atonement from Graymoor, transitioned into God’s glory during the evening of Thursday, June 17, 2021 in the Lurana Healthcare Residence at St. Francis Convent, just three days shy of her 71st birthday. Sister lived at the American College in the mid to late 1990s. Lorelei Lorraine was born to Frederick and Irene (Heitmeyer) Fuchs in Long Island City, New York on June 20, 1950. Besides her Sisters in Community, Sister Lorelei is survived by her sister, Elaine Spinelli of New York, and her nieces and nephews. She is pre-deceased by her parents and her sister, Linda Fuchs.
Lorelei, at age 25, entered the Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement on November 1, 1975. She became a novice on September 8, 1976 and received the name Sister Lorelei Francis. Sister professed her first vows on May 20, 1978 and her final vows on August 11, 1984. As an Atonement missionary for 43 years, Sister Lorelei was best known for her work after 1989 in the field of ecumenism.
Sister received a Master of Arts in Theology in 1991 from University of Notre Dame, Indiana, then, a Master of Arts in Theology (MTh) and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL) from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Louvain, Belgium, where she also received her Doctorate degree in Sacred Theology (PhD) in 2003. Her dissertation was entitled: Koinonia and the Quest for an Ecumenical Ecclesiology: From Foundations through Dialogue to Symbolic competence for Communionality.
In her early years in religious life (1978-1985), Sister ministered in various parish assignments as a faith Formator, teacher of religious education, liturgical coordinator and involved in all aspects of parish ministry. She was gifted in music, singing and played the guitar. In 1985, she was missioned to Rome, Italy to minister at Foyer Unitas, an ecumenical guest house of hospitality. Sister was quick to learn languages and became quite fluent in Italian, French and some German. She remained in Italy into 1987, ministering at the community’s international guest house in Assisi, 1986-87 and in 2016. After this, she studied at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana and received a Master of Arts in Theology in 1991.
Her journey in the field of ecumenism brought her to New York City in 1991 where she worked at the Graymoor Ecumenical Institute (G.E.I.) as an associate director within the Institute. In 1993, it became the G.E.I.I. (Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute). She remained with the Institute until 2006. As an Associate Director of the Institute, Sister served on the National Council of Churches Faith and Order Commission, was an associate editor of Ecumenical Trends, and from 1993-2003 was editor of the GEII resource materials for the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. She also staffed the Institute’s LARC Desk (Lutheran-Anglican-Roman Catholic relations). She wrote numerous articles and gave presentations throughout the United States and also at the Centro Pro Unione in Rome.
Sister’s ministries were academic, theological and ecumenical. She traveled throughout the United States, and Europe, especially Italy, France and Germany participating in conferences, dialogues, and giving lectures. She also facilitated ecumenical retreats and parish missions. In October 2015, Sister Lorelei presented a conference on ecumenism at the Sisters’ mission in Paliparan, Cavite, Philippines.
Though Sister’s health began to decline in 2016, she was able to continue ministering in hospitality at St. Francis Convent (Motherhouse) at Graymoor, and in 2016/2017 at the Washington Retreat House in Washington, DC, owned by the community. She returned to the Motherhouse in 2018 where she retired and was cared for at the Lurana Healthcare Residence at the Motherhouse.
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, services are private for the Atonement Community and immediate family members only.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement, 41 Old Highland Turnpike, Garrison, New York 10524 (USA).
Reverend JErome T. Walsh, AC’69
Reverend Jerome T. Walsh, 78, passed from this life on April 25, 2021. He studied at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium, the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Jerusalem, and received his Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from the University of Michigan. Walsh was ordained a priest June 28, 1969, in Louvain. He taught Theology & Religious Studies at St. John's University and at the University of Botswana. In 2001, he was hired as Professor of Old Testament by the School of Ministry at the University of Dallas, and in 2012 was granted senior status.
An active member of CBA since 1975, Walsh served as Chair of the Program Committee from 1984-86 and as an Associate Editor for CBQ from 2001-6.
Jerry was from Detroit. Attended Sacred Heart Seminary and then Theological College in DC for a couple years and then came to The American College. He was the author of the commentary on 1 Kings in the Liturgical Press's Berit Olam series. Read the death notice from the Archdiocese of Detroit.
Reverend Francis J. Guidice, AC 56
Rev. Francis J. Giudice, 92, Pastor Emeritus of SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Providence, died Friday, February 5, 2021.
Son of the late Gennaro and Rose (Croce) Giudice, he attended Westerly public schools, graduating from Westerly High School as President of the Class of 1946. He enlisted in U. S. Army for two years, serving in Korea. Upon his return, he studied at Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Warwick, St. Mary Seminary in Baltimore, Maryland, and the American College in Belgium in preparation for the priesthood. He was ordained to the priesthood, July 1, 1956, in Louvain, Belgium, by Bishop Russell J. McVinney. After a summer assignment at St. Clare Parish in Misquamicut, he served as assistant pastor at St. Jude Parish in Lincoln and part-time faculty member at LaSalle Academy in Providence. The following year, he became part-time chaplain at Our Lady of Fatima Hospital, North Providence.
From 1959-61, Father Giudice pursued post-graduate studies in hospital administration at St. Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1961, he became chaplain at St. Joseph Hospital and Assistant Secretary for Catholic Hospitals in the Diocese of Providence.
In 1962, he became assistant pastor at Holy Angels Parish, Barrington (1962-67), where he worked with the pastor and the parish community to fundraise and construct a new church building. Between 1967-82, Father Giudice was assistant pastor at Assumption Parish, Providence. While continuing to serve at Assumption Parish, he was appointed Vicar for Community Affairs. He was instrumental in helping to establish community health centers in Providence.
In 1982, Father Giudice became rector of SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Providence, where he served until his retirement as Pastor Emeritus in July 2004. He had a life-long affinity for the poor, and during his time at the Cathedral, Father championed the cause of poverty relief in Haiti after visiting the island in 1981. His advocacy led to the Providence-Haiti Outreach project and the construction of a school and athletic complex that continues to serve and feed hundreds of youth.
During his retirement, Father resided at St. Pius X Rectory, Westerly; St. John Vianney Residence, Providence; St. Antoine Residence, North Smithfield; and The Elms, Westerly.
In addition to his parish duties, Father Giudice also served as Dean of Providence Deanery #1 and Deanery Vicar of Providence South Region #7. In the Diocese of Providence, he was a member of the Priests' Senate, the Human Relations Commission, and the Permanent Diaconate Board. Father Giudice was the Diocesan Moderator for the St. Vincent de Paul Society, representative to the Interfaith Health Care Ministries Board of Directors, and member of the U.S. Catholic Conference Committee on social development and world peace. In 1992, he completed sabbatical studies at the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University, Chicago.
A kind and gentle man, Father Giudice never lost his love of Westerly, especially his Oak Street roots. The fifth of seven children, he was predeceased by his siblings Helen Giudice, Santa Aldrich, Judy Iacoi, and Samuel and James Giudice. Surviving is his brother John Giudice of Westerly, a large extended family of Giudice, Iacoi, and Aldrich nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and many who loved and considered him their family priest. Visit Legacy.com for additional details.
Reverend Monsignor Thomas P. Ivory, AC Rector
Reverend Monsignor Thomas P. Ivory “Fr. Tom”, 82, passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2020, after a courageous battle with heart failure. Fr. Tom died the way he lived, trying to make something better than it was. Fr. Tom was born and raised in Bloomfield, NJ and he and his family attended Sacred Heart Parish. He was a proud graduate of Seton Hall Prep and spent thirteen “life and faith forming” years at the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium, first as a seminarian for the Archdiocese of Newark, then Spiritual Director and finally as the Rector of the American College at Louvain. Fr. Tom served as Pastor of Ascension Parish in New Milford and Pastor of Presentation Parish in Upper Saddle River before retiring in 2007 as their Pastor Emeritus. Fr. Tom was an educator, author, theologian, champion for justice and peace, colleague, son, brother, uncle, cousin and Roman Catholic priest. But most of all Thomas P. Ivory was a gentleman. A list of his many ministries, books and degrees can be found below. Fr. Tom was humble and would cringe at having all of that listed in his obituary. He often commented that his blessings were his relationships. He used to share that his first job as a teenager, in a men’s clothing store, in his hometown served him well for the rest of his life. For there he was trained to say to those who walked through the door, “Hi, my name is Tom, how might I help you?”
Fr. Tom is survived by his nephew, Thomas Hoby of Colorado, niece, Catherine Wieting of Pennsylvania and many loving cousins and ordained brothers. He is now reunited with his mother and father, Thomas and Anne and his older sister, Patricia. Visitation will be held on Monday, October 12 at Presentation Church, 271 West Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River, NJ from 3:15 – 6:45 PM. Evening Prayer will follow at 7:00 PM. The Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, October 13 at Presentation Church. Interment followed at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, 712 Grove St., Montclair, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Fr. Tom’s memory to the Catholic parish/organization or Catholic charity of your choosing. (Obituary from the Van Embargo-Sneider-Pernice Funeral Home includes the full list assignments.)
1969-1974
Spiritual Director at The American College (Seminary of Immaculate Conception)
Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium
Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Uccle, Belgium
1988-1992
Rector/President of The American College at Louvain, Belgium
Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Uccle, Belgium
Reverend Richard Schaefer, AC’68
Reverend Richard Lee Schaefer moved onto his new heavenly priest assignment on July 9, 2020. Father Richard Schaefer (or Father Dick, as he was fondly known) was born in Bellevue, Iowa on September 10, 1942, a son of Albert and Eileen (Schilling) Schaefer. Raised on an eastern Iowa farm, Fr. Richard regularly recounted those experiences. Richard was a student and writer of many talents. After attending St. Joseph’s Elementary School, he graduated as valedictorian of his class at Marquette High School, while also lettering in basketball and baseball. He was also very successful in the State of Iowa Speech Contest. As an entrant in a literary essay contest sponsored by the Rural Electric Cooperative, he was awarded a trip to Washington, D.C. Fr. Richard wrote columns for the Marquette News portion of the Bellevue Herald, leading to a summer job at the newspaper covering sports.
A man for all seasons, while attending Loras College in Dubuque and graduating magna cum laude, he participated in Vested Choir, was on the debate team for three years, won the annual Loras College Essay Contest, wrote for The Spokesman, the college literary journal, and received a minor letter in track.
Fr. Richard studied for the priesthood at the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium receiving an M.A. and S.T.B. in Theology. There he served as historian and was the first literary editor of the International Theological Journal, Louvain Studies. His ordination to become a priest occurred July 13, 1968 when he was installed by Archbishop James J. Byrne at Dubuque’s St. Raphael Cathedral.
His first assignment in 1968 was at St. Anthony’s Parish in Dubuque, teaching elementary religion and leading the Catholic Schools of Dubuque junior high school athletic program. The position of responsibility for liturgical or worship music enabled him to introduce modern music into religious services. Father Richard also taught at Wahlert High School.
With a transfer to St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and Student Center at Iowa State University in Ames, his contributions were a part of the four-person team campus ministry. Assistance was also provided to Msgr. Daniel Tarrant, to write and develop liturgies used across the country.
Fr. Dick went from St. Thomas Aquinas parish to studying theology at Marquette University in Milwaukee where he lived and worked in an inner-city parish. Upon completion of the studies in Milwaukee, he returned to Loras College, to teach theology and religious studies. He also led a Catholic women’s book club. Rev. Richard served under five bishops as the Censor; or reviewer of whether a book’s publication would be certified with a “Nihil Obstat”, the confirmation there was no doctrinal objection.
Rev. Schaefer served for years as Medical Chaplain for Mercy Hospital, in Dubuque, on call 24 hours for counseling and tending to the needs of patients of all faiths. This was perhaps his most challenging and rewarding assignment. Counseling to those in critical medical need requires a special calling. Fr. Richard was blessed with this gift.
More recently, Fr. Richard celebrated Mass regularly at Hawkeye Care Center and Bethany Home, both Dubuque retirement homes. Fr. Schaefer served as a fill-in pastor for the retirement home in Galena, St. Mary’s parish in East Dubuque, St. Michael’s, St. Mary’s parishes in Galena, and Holy Trinity in Scales Mound.
One of his passions was the support of the Right to Life movement and thus he participated in many events to keep the public aware of this issue. Fr. Richard served for many years on the Board of the Dubuque Area Right to Life Committee and traveled to Washington D.C. for several January nationwide rallies. Through his over 50 years as a Catholic priest, Fr. Richard performed countless religious services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and counseling sessions.
Fr. Richard loved sports, especially baseball. Father was a Dodger fan since he first saw “The Jackie Robinson Story” at the age of eight. He was a walking sports encyclopedia and frequently shared information regarding Dodger players, key baseball events and lore. Father had opposing view insight, provided deep thought to complex issues, and possessed a whimsical sense of humor. He loved to tell jokes including puns and especially those he made up. Fr. Richard was fond of inventing combinations of words, such as “gladitude.” His huge collection of every imaginable style of hat matched his quipped words; “the world does not have enough hats or puns.”
Rev. Richard Schaefer’s care, memory of people and events, his writings, dedication to the Catholic faith, love of family and support for others were outstanding.
He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts; Rosemary (Schaefer) Salm, Sister Julaine (Eleanor) Schaefer, Mary (Schilling) Kueter, Dorothy (Schilling) Meyer, and Bertha (Schilling) Hallahan, uncles Rev. Aidan (Orville) Schaefer, Floyd Schaefer, and Lawrence Schilling.
Father Schaefer faithfully fulfilled the devotion to his ministry and will be missed by his many friends, by his siblings Joe (Carol) Schaefer, Larry (Kay) Schaefer, Bob (Kathy) Schaefer, Tom (Margaret) Schaefer, Jim (Carol) Schaefer, and Mary (Ron) Grecco; nieces and nephews Amy (Ken) Akers, Sarah Schaefer and her husband Brian Pierce, Brian (Liz) Schaefer, Carrie (Patrick) Weston, Michael Schaefer, Katie (Brad) Stapleton, Megan (Matthew) Murphy, Katie (March) Hom, Mark (Lauren) Schaefer, Valerie (Jason) Lawler, Pam Schaefer, aunt Bernice (Kueter) Ehlers, uncles Russell (Joan) Schilling, and Lester Schilling, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grand-nephews.
A memorial service is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Father Richard often said, “There will be chili and brownies in heaven.” All know Rev. Richard L. Schaefer is now enjoying that heavenly feast.
Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.
Robert Joseph McIntyre, AC’63
Bob McIntyre died on June 23, 2020 in Sebastian, Florida. He was 83 years old. Bob served for many years in social ministry with the Diocese of Providence. His burial is planned to be at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Providence, Rhode Island. Condolences may be posted online at the Millennium Cremation Service website.
RevErend Doctor Thomas F. LivernoiS, AC’69
The Rev. Dr. Thomas F. Livernois died on November 18, 2019, at the T. Boone Pickens Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Dallas, TX after a seven-year struggle with cancer. He was 77. Raised in a French-Canadian Roman Catholic family in a suburb of Detroit, Michigan, his family moved to Florida in 1957. In 1961, he entered the Roman Catholic seminary system in Florida, and in1965, the Diocese of Miami decided to send him to the American College and University of Louvain (Belgium) to further his theological formation.
It was in Louvain that he formed strong friendships with Lutheran and other Protestant leaders that seeded his interest for interfaith dialogue. One of the highlights of this period was a trip to Switzerland to meet with Dr. Karl Barth, a prominent Swiss Reform theologian, in his home in Basel.
With a European Masters degree in theology in hand, he returned to the U.S. in 1967 to pursue a Masters degree at the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago where he also obtained a PhD in Systematic Theology in 1974.
Read the full obituary online.
Reverend John Francis Morley, AC’62
Reverend John Francis Morley, 83 of Wall Township passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at St. Catharine of Sienna Healthcare Care Center, Caldwell.
Born in Jersey City, Fr. John had graduated from St. Aloysius Grammar School, Seton Hall Prep, South Orange in 1954 as Valedictorian of his Class, Seton Hall University in 1956 and Immaculate Conception Seminary in June 1958 with an A.B in Classical Studies. He then went on to study theology at the American College, the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium graduating in June 1962 with an S.T.B. and M.A in Religious Education.
He was ordained a priest to the Archdiocese of Newark, NJ on July 1, 1962 by Bishop Honore van Waeyenburgh, Rector Magnificus of the University of Louvain in Louvain, Belgium
His first assignment was to St. Mary’s Parish, Elizabeth until being transferred to Seton Hall University in June 1967. He went on to receive a Ph.D., New York University in June 1979 in Jewish Studies.
He had been the Associate Professor, Department of Religious Studies, the University Sacristan from 1967-1992, and he was also the Minister to the Priest Community and Assistant to the Chancellor. He was the recipient of the McQuaid Medal in 1991, the Humanitarian of the Year on April 14, 2002 of the Rose Thering Endowment at Seton Hall.
He had also served as the Catholic Chaplain for the Military Ocean Terminal, Bayonne from 1986-1999 and had been presented with the Commander’s Award for Public Service by BG Boyd King in July 1995.
Fr. John had served as a weekend assistant at St. Catharine’s-St. Margaret’s Parish, Spring Lake from 1997 until his retirement 2 years ago. He was also a member of the first Presbyteral Council of the Archdiocese of Newark from 1984-1987, and the Commission for Interreligious Affairs of the Archdiocese.
He had been appointed by Cardinal Edward Cassidy, President of the Holy See’s Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews in October 1999, to be one of the three Catholic members of a joint Catholic-Jewish group of Scholars whose task was to review the published Vatican documents on the Holocaust.
He was a member of the Church Relations and Holocaust Committee of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.
Father Morley’s contributions to Seton Hall Community and to Christian- Jewish relations go far beyond the parameters of this obituary.
Born to John and Hannah “Nan” (O’Mahoney) Morley, both of Ireland, John was the oldest of the 5 Morley children. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Rosemary Verbist and husband Bill, his brother in law Robert T. O’Keefe, and nephew Robbie M. O’Keefe and niece Hannah Morley Chaballa.
Surviving to mourn his loss are his sister Joan O’Keefe, his brother Daniel Morley, and sister Cathy Chaballa and husband John, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and lastly his St. Catherine of Sienna family who have cared for Fr. John for the past 2 years.
Private entombment for Rev. John Francis Morley was held on Saturday, April 11, 2020 in St. Catharine’s Cemetery, Sea Girt.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to either the Immaculate Conception Chapel of Seton Hall University, 400 S Orange Ave, South Orange, NJ 07079 or St. Catharine of Sienna Healthcare Center, 7 Ryerson Place, Caldwell, NJ 07006. Tribute Wall Online.
Reverend John “Jack” E. Watterson, AC’62
The Reverend John E. "Father Jack" Watterson, 82, died Sunday, December 22, 2019. Born in Newport, RI, son of the late Chief John E. Watterson, Newport FD and Edith M. (Rafferty) Watterson, he attended St. Mary School and De La Salle Academy, both in Newport. In preparation for the priesthood, he studied at Our Lady of Providence Seminary, Warwick; St. Mary Seminary, Baltimore, MD; and the American College, Louvain, Belgium. He was ordained on July 1, 1962 in Louvain by Bishop Honore Van Waeyenburgh. After ordination, he served as Chaplain at St. Joseph Hospital, Providence (1962-66). In 1966 he became a U.S. Army Chaplain, serving until 1992 in various parts of the world with the rank of Colonel, and earning four Bronze
Stars. After returning from the Army, he became Chaplain at Memorial Hospital, Pawtucket, with residence at St. Mary Parish, Pawtucket (1992-94). In 1994, Father Watterson was appointed part-time Chaplain at the R.I. Medical Center, Cranston and part-time Director of the Office of Health Care
Ministries of the Diocese of Providence. In 1996, he became pastor of St. Mary, Pawtucket, while continuing at the R.I. Medical Center and the Office of Health Care Ministries. In 2001, he was appointed pastor of St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish in Narragansett, and was named Dean of Deanery VIII in 2006. Father Watterson retired as Pastor Emeritus of St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish in 2008. During his retirement years, he resided within the Diocese of Fall River. He leaves three siblings, William Watterson of Portsmouth, RI; James Watterson of Westport; and Kathleen Watterson of Fall River; and many nieces
and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Marilyn O'Shea, Stephen Watterson and Daniel Watterson. Visitation will be held Friday, January 3, from 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at St. Theresa's Church, 265 Stafford Rd. Tiverton. A Concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for Father's soul on Saturday, January 4, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Theresa's Church. Burial is Monday, January 6 at 12 Noon at RI Veteran's Cemetery, Exeter.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Theresa's Church, 265 Stafford Rd, Tiverton, RI 02878; or to Catholic Memorial Home, 2446 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720. Arrangements by Auclair Funeral Home, Fall River. Online guest book at AuclairFuneralHome.com.
