1921 – 2024
Father Lucey passed away peacefully at the St. Joseph’s Special Care Home in Estevan, Sask. on January 14, 2024, at the age of 102.
Father Lucey was born in Glenflesk, Ireland, on May 15, 1921. The Lucey family was a farming family, and Cornelius was one of eight children. Four of his family entered the religious life. He emigrated to Canada at the age of 25. Here, he followed his passion and became a priest. He was ordained in the Archdiocese of Regina on May 28, 1955. Father Lucey served many parishes, beginning with:
Kenaston, ‘55; Dysart, ‘55-’56; Blessed Sacrament Parish, Regina, ’56-’58; Estevan, ’58-’59; Church of Our Lady, Moose Jaw, ’59-’60; Mutrie, ’60-’70; Claybank, ’70-’80 and Truax ’74-’80; Lestock, Wishart & Leross, ’80-’81; Bengough, Big Beaver, Horizon & Ogema, ’81-’93; and finally as Pastor of Torquay ‘93-2014 where he then settled and retired.
The village of Torquay embraced him, and he became a mentor to all. Father Lucey was a prolific author and composed two books of poetry. He also was a historian.
He retired to Creighton Lodge in 2014 and made his final move to St. Joseph’s Special Care Home in 2018.
Father Lucey was a faithful disciple of Jesus, a man with a quick wit, and all who knew him will miss his knowledge, sense of humor and bright character.
Father Lucey was predeceased by his family members: Father Dan, Michael Lucey, Eileen O’Shea, Nora Murphy, Mary McGrath, and Sister Debra Martin, as well as nephew Donal Lucey. He is survived by his sister, Sister Agatha, Margaret McGrath (Fitzgerald), David McGrath, Bridgid McGrath, Lucy McGrath (O’Dwyer), Frances McGrath (Gordon). Patrick McGrath, Padraig (Patrick) Lucey, Tadhg Lucey, Conor Lucey, John O’Shea, and Helen O’Shea.
The Prayer Vigil will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. with Rev. Sathiadas Antony officiating and The Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. with Most Reverend Donald J. Bolen the celebrant. Both services will be held at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Estevan. Following the Funeral Mass, a luncheon will be served in the parish hall. The Rite of Committal will take place at Sacred Heart Parish Cemetery, Torquay, Sask. at a later date. To view the Live Stream of the Prayer Vigil and Funeral Mass, click here. Video recordings will also be available for 90 days.
In lieu of flowers, please consider arranging for a Mass to be offered for Father Lucey.
Funeral arrangements are in care of Hall Funeral Services, Estevan – Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.
Father Gary passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at the age of 71 years. He was predeceased by his parents Walter and Elsie Lindenbach, and is survived by his sister, Aurelie (Brian) Blair, and his nephews, Andrew, Christian, Michael, and Matthew.
Father Gary was born in Regina, Saskatchewan. He was the eldest child in the family and very fond of school and sports, and spent much time helping out at the family farm outside Regina.
After working in a variety of careers, spanning everything from Graphic design to Credit Analysis, he discerned a call to the priesthood, and entered St. Joseph Seminary in Edmonton, Alberta. Father Gary was ordained to the Roman Catholic Priesthood on May 12, 1989, by Archbishop Charles Halpin in Regina.
Throughout his 34 years of ministry, he held various placements and positions within the Archdiocese. Father Gary served as the Chair of the council of Priests, was a member of The Priests’ ministry to Priests team, and worked on the Archdiocesan Liturgy Commission. This, in addition to being pastor of many Parishes within the Archdiocese, led to a life spent trying to bring the Good News to the world.
Father Gary was indeed one of a kind. He was loved and will be sincerely missed by many.
Funeral Mass will take place at Holy Rosary Cathedral, 3125 13th Avenue, Regina, SK on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. followed by interment for immediate family at the St. James Cemetery, Southey, Saskatchewan.
Flowers gratefully declined. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in Father Gary’s name are encouraged to do so to The Archbishops Annual Appeal, in honour of Father Gary.
Father Pat passed away peacefully at Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the age of 98 years. He was predeceased by his parents Vincent and Sarah Murphy; and his siblings John, Kevin, and Sheila. Father Pat is survived by his youngest sister Maureen, and her husband Wayne Runyon; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Father Pat was born in Humboldt, Saskatchewan. He was the eldest child in the family and very fond of school and reading, spurred on by the example of his parents, both avid readers and intellectuals.
Both his parents were practicing Catholics and passed on their faith to their children. His main formative influences in his youth were Sunday Mass, grace at meals, and a pattern of conversation that easily and naturally brought up religious subjects and loyalty to the Church. He said, “A sense of the abiding presence of God as Father and Protector was part of the air he breathed” in his childhood.
When Father Pat was ten years old, his father passed away and the family moved to Regina.
He carried into manhood this love for the Mass and an esteem for the intellectual underpinnings of his Faith.
After completing his undergraduate degree in Theology from Campion College, he then discerned a call to the priesthood, completing his studies in Philosophy at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Toronto, and Theology at Regina Cleri Seminary in Regina, 1945-1949.
Father Pat was ordained to the Roman Catholic Priesthood on April 2, 1949, by Archbishop O’Neil in Regina.
Throughout his 74 years of ministry, he held various placements and positions within the Archdiocese. He served as the Director of Religious Education for the Archdiocese, starting in 1971. He also spent four years doing ministry in the Northwest Territories, in Yellowknife and Inuvik.
Father Pat had a passion for learning and took breaks from his ministering in order to acquire a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1962 and a Masters degree in Philosophy in 1976 from the University of Ottawa. He said his graduate studies enriched his personal and pastoral life.
He was a part-time instructor in Philosophy at the University of Regina from 1975 to 1978.
He spent almost 50 years to achieve a goal only few have attained – reading the complete works of the medieval poet Dante in the original. To do so, he spent a lifetime studying Greek, Hebrew, Latin, French, and Italian.
Father Pat received the honors of the Fourth Degree from the Knights of Columbus. He was involved in a priest’s support group, as well as a group studying Amoris Laetitia.
He helped sponsor two refugee families come to Canada. He was always looking for anyone he thought he could help, whether it was financial, or teaching the English language. An order of Nun’s had funded his schooling to Campion College and he was forever grateful and believed in paying it forward.
Father Pat enjoyed swimming, jogging, reading, attending the Globe Theatre, travelling, fine dining, and above all, good conversation.
After 62 years of ministry, Father Pat semi-retired, residing in Martha House Inc. He stayed extremely busy filling in to say Mass wherever needed, most notably at the Sisters of Precious Blood. He then moved to Trinity Manor, and lastly due to health reasons, Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home.
Father Pat was indeed one of a kind. He was loved and will be sincerely missed by many.
Prayers will take place at Holy Trinity Parish, 5020 Sherwood Drive on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. with the Funeral Mass at Holy Trinity on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. followed by Interment at Regina Cemetery.
Flowers gratefully declined. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in Father Pat’s name are encouraged to do so to The Catholic Missions in Canada, 201-1155 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4T 1W2 or a charity of your choice, in honour of Father Pat.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Father Hector Q. Seville, peacefully at Holy Rosary Rectory, a month before his 71st birthday. Hector was born and raised in San Remigio, Cebu, Philippines. He was predeceased by his parents, Josefa and Daniel Seville; brother, Pedrito Seville; brothers-in-law, Eduardo Orbiso and Eduardo Hipolito; and niece, Mary Jill Quijada. Hector is survived by his sisters Josephine Orbiso, Merlyn Mara-Mara and Evelyn Hipolito; brothers, Victor Seville (Las Vegas) and Renato Seville (Philippines); sister-in-law, Emeteria Seville (Philippines); cousin Avelina Cabahug Juma and Family (Regina); cousins and cousins-in-law (Philippines); nieces and nephews; as well as many great nieces, great nephews, and dear friends.
During his lifetime, Father Hector was ordained in the Cathedral of Cebu City on March 23, 1978. He served in several parishes in Archdiocese until 1986 when he became a chaplain in the Philippines Army. He came to the Archdiocese of Regina in October of 1990 and since then had served as parish priest in a number of parishes.
Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at Holy Rosary RC Cathedral, 2104 Garnet Street, Regina, SK. For those not able to attend a livestream may be viewed at https://youtube.com/live/IiMl11r5rWs?feature=share. Interment to follow at a later date at San Remigio Memorial Garden, Punta, San Remigioa, Cebu, Philippines.
January 10, 1932 – January 26, 2023
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Father Don McNeil, peacefully at home, just two weeks after his 91st birthday. Don was born and raised in Regina, SK. He was predeceased by his parents, Eileen and Roderick McNeil; brothers, Ray McNeil and Jack McNeil; sister Maureen Reed; and nephew, Jeffrey Kirley. Don is survived by his sisters Joan Kirley (Seattle) and Elaine Setter (Regina); sister-in-law, Connie McNeil (Calgary); nieces, Rhonda Basson, Dana Newberry, Kathleen Thompson, and Shannon Sinclair; nephews, Rob McNeil, Rod McNeil, Ross McNeil, Brian McNeil, Neil Setter, Craig Setter, and Dan Kirley, as well as many great nieces, great nephews, and dear friends.
During his lifetime, Father Don shared his faith and served as a parish priest, RCMP chaplain, clinical psychologist, volunteer, and a friend to many. He was very proud of his service as a Catholic chaplain for the RCMP depot chapel in Regina for 34 years. During his last 10 years of service at the depot, he volunteered his time to the RCMP cadets and the Catholic community. He was always willing to help and generously gave of his time and resources.
One of Father Don’s favorite charitable organizations that he helped initiate was The Blue Mantle, a non-profit business in Regina that accepted used clothing and furniture donations to help the poor and needy. Father Don also initiated the formation of the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Regina and worked as their Spiritual Advisor. Don dedicated many hours to helping others in need, in whatever way he could, often gathering his friends to become involved as well. In 2017, Father Don was the proud recipient of the Governor General’s “Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers” in recognition of his many years of charitable service. He was honoured with this prestigious medal at the RCMP Chapel in Regina.
A special and heartfelt thank you is extended to his long-time caregivers: Joy, and Nurse Maria Barredo, as well as the Unit 4B nurses and staff at the Pasqua Hospital. A Funeral Mass to Celebrate Fr. Don’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, 5020 Sherwood Drive, Regina, SK. Viewing available in the church prior to Mass from 12:00 to 12:45 pm. The funeral mass will be livestreamed and can be accessed by using the following link: https://youtube.com/live/3Izpfw0Y4b8?feature=share Donations in Father Don’s name can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
Father Peter Thang Nguyen, age 78, came to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston in 2017 from the Archdiocese of Regina, Canada seeking a warmer climate. He was assigned to St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church where he served until his most recent assignment to Vietnamese Martyrs Catholic Church on July 1, 2022. Father Peter passed away during Mass on Sunday (July 31, 2022) with the blessing of being surrounded by the parish faith community and Father John Kha Tran.
The following funeral arrangements for Father Peter will take place at Vietnamese Martyrs Church at 10610 Kingspoint Road in Houston:
- Vigil Mass – Thursday, August 11, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.
- Mass of Christian Burial – Friday, August 12, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Father Marcel Anthony George on Tuesday, October 18, 2022.
Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m on Thursday, October 27, 2022 at Holy Rosary Cathedral, 3125 13th Avenue, Regina, SK with Archbishop Donald Bolen, celebrant
Interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 30, 2022 in St. Maurice Cemetery, Bellegarde, SK.
Trinity Manor in Regina
It is with great sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Father Joe at Pasqua Hospital on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Predeceased by his parents, Dr. Josef Strohhofer (1972) and Mrs. Erika Strohhofer (2012); as well as three siblings. He is survived by seven siblings; and numerous nieces and nephews. Born in Germany in 1940, Father Joe was ordained to the priesthood in 1965. A good and faithful servant he served in numerous parishes within the Archdiocese of Regina for 55 years. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Rosary Cathedral. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com
View livestream of the funeral here
March 29, 1939- November 8, 2020
“I have had the privilege of knowing Msgr. Kenneth Miller as a friend and mentor for the past 43 years. My association with Father Ken began in September of 1971 when I entered Miller High as a student. At that time, Father Ken was the school Chaplain and we became friends and have remained so since then. Also during that period, Father Ken operated the Catholic Teen Drop-in Centre and managed a concession booth at the Exhibition to provide funds for youth programs in the Archdiocese. Father Ken has been active in many areas of Catholic life. He has been the pastor of a number of parishes in the Archdiocese of Regina, has worked as Supervisor of Catholic Education for the Regina Catholic School Division, served our Archdiocese as the Director of Pastoral Services, Director of Organization and Development, and as our Vicar General.
Father Ken’s generosity has greatly influenced my life. His good example is one of the reasons I chose a vocation in the priesthood and work as a priest today. I believe at the very heart of Father Ken’s being are those things that make Saskatchewan great.
He is a clear and independent thinker who always shows concern for the people around him. His life is an example of service and kindness to others. His interests are wide and varied, from theological concerns that effect peoples’ lives daily, to art and music, to being out with friends for coffee and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. In all these things, he is a full participant and an avid fan.”
“I have had the pleasure of knowing Msgr. Kenneth Miller for the past 29 years. I had the good fortune of first meeting Msgr. Ken when I was the Youth Ministry Coordinator for the Archdiocese of Regina. From the first moment I met him, I knew that he was passionate about the Catholic faith, young people, Catholic Education and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. As my career path lead me into teaching, high school chaplaincy and now Coordinator of Catholic Education Services, I had many occasions to work closely with Msgr. Miller. Through these encounters, my admiration for Msgr. Ken has grown even stronger.
Msgr. Ken has been a tireless advocate for Catholic education not only within the Archdiocese of Regina but across the province. As Supervisor of Catholic Education for Regina Catholic Schools, Msgr. Ken made sure that all students felt welcomed and valued at our schools. Though Msgr. Ken would be too modest to admit it, he was instrumental in establishing the Ukrainian Program within Regina Catholic Schools. This program ensures that the language, culture and faith of Ukrainian Catholics is taught and promoted within the school division. Thus, it is no surprise that the Ukrainian Catholic community within the city of Regina has the highest regard for Msgr. Ken.
Msgr. Ken is also held in the highest regard by Regina Catholic Schools. The chapel at Miller Catholic Comprehensive High School is officially known as the Msgr. Ken Miller Chapel in honour of his devoted service and tremendous impact on the staff and students of Miller.”
Father Peter Nijssen was called home to our Merciful Father on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at Trinity Manor. Fr. Peter was 96 years old. He was predeceased by his parents and is survived by a sister Stiena, a nephew and a niece as well as other relatives in Holland.
Father Peter was born in the Netherlands on January 10, 1924. He didn’t begin his vocation to the priesthood until he was 25. He spent 6 years in the minor seminary in Holland before coming to Canada in 1955 where he entered a major seminary at St. Peter’s in London, Ontario. He studied there for two years and then another four years at the Regina Cleri Seminary in Regina. He was ordained at Holy Rosary Cathedral on June 3, 1961.
He served at Holy Rosary Cathedral and Little Flower Parishes in Regina as well as numerous rural parishes – Rowatt, Pangman, Ceylon, Wolseley, Lanigan, Nokomis, Sinnett and Estevan, Midale and Macoun. Even at 74, rather than retiring, Fr. Peter continued to assist with ministry in Estevan until he retired to Martha House in the fall of 2014.
Fr. Peter served for five years on the Victims Committee and seven years as the Director of the Ministry to Priest Program. For 37 years he was a member of the Lion’s club and in 2007 he received the Lions International Foundation Award for dedicated humanitarian services. Fr. Peter was awarded the Diocesan Award of Merit in 2010. He also taught a human behavioural course at St. Mary Elementary School in Estevan. It seems he was well known for his legendary green thumb and magnificent flower gardens that people would come from miles around to see.
When Fr. Peter came to Canada he was determined to learn and speak English well. His sermons were written. He was one of the first priests to have a computer. He lived a simple life with few needs – a car, a fishing rod and an occasional trip to see relatives in Holland. In his old age he did go to Alaska for a fishing experience. He rarely spoke about growing up as a teenager in occupied Holland during the Second World War. He told of a signal used to warn the population of danger, having the windmill stopped either horizontal or vertical or in between. Tulip bulbs were made into soup. A desperate woman traded her wedding ring for a loaf of bread. Occupying forces took a farm animal. Fr. Peter, with a laugh, quoted how they paid with money they printed at the kitchen table, “it was worthless.” He always was prayerful, very generous, and gradually in his old age he accepted his limitations of mind and body.
In the words of Father Tonny Dizy who spoke at Fr. Peter’s 50th Anniversary, “Through all these years you have been a faithful servant and shepherd in the various parishes to which you were appointed. Your devotion, your deep faith, your dedication, your care and compassion for people and your commitment has not gone without notice.” Father Peter, you have served the Lord well.
We are grateful for the care Fr. Peter received from staff, nuns, and others while at Martha House, during a brief stay at Regina General Hospital, and in the end at Trinity Manor.
Prayers will be held on Friday, June 12, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. Both services will take place at Holy Rosary Cathedral, 2104 Garnet Street, Regina, SK.
Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, limited seating will be available at the Prayers and Funeral Mass. To view the livestream of the Funeral Mass, please click HERE.
Graveside Service will be held at Riverside Memorial Park, 815 Assiniboine Avenue, Regina, SK, on Monday, June 15, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. Please meet at the cemetery gates prior to 9:55 a.m. The graveside service will be broadcast, to vehicles in the cemetery, on radio at FM 106.9. Guests are asked to remain in their vehicles in order to comply with gathering size restrictions. These restrictions require that no one should leave their vehicle unless directed to do so by Speers personnel.
Beloved by many, Msgr. Hogan passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at the age of 100 years. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Louise (nee Madigan); sisters and brothers-in-law, Louise (Anthony) Stembridge, Mary (Connie) Fogarty, Kathleen (Michael) Flanagan, Eva (Michael) Casey, and brother in infancy, Patrick. Msgr. Hogan is survived by his nieces and nephews in Ireland and Canada. He was born on October 19, 1919 in Limerick, Ireland, the second in his family.
He completed his studies at Mungret College, Limerick. While at school, he had met Archbishop Monahan of Regina, SK, who had been visiting Ireland. Msgr. Hogan (or Fr. Mike, to those who knew him well) loved to tell how the Archbishop warned him that Saskatchewan could be difficult; sometimes, he cautioned, a priest might get his car stuck in the winter snow or the muddy country roads while driving to serve parishioners. Fr. Mike would joke that all he heard the Archbishop say was the word “car,” and he was hooked. Young priests in Ireland at the time were issued a bicycle – never a car. He arrived in Regina in August 1939, just at the outbreak of WWII. His passenger ship had been in a convoy that included the Athenia, directly behind. He witnessed as it became a casualty of war, with the loss of 1103 lives. A man of deep faith, he marvelled at the fragility and value of life, and he carried that respect with him in all his relationships.
Fr. Hogan’s life as a priest touched people in many communities, where he was a thoughtful and dedicated leader. He studied at the Regina Cleri Seminary and was ordained on June 13, 1943 at Holy Rosary Cathedral in Regina, SK. He first served as a curate at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Regina, from 1943-1947. His first assignment as pastor (1948-1959) took him to Kenaston, SK, where he built St. Andrews Church. From 1959-1968 he established Holy Cross Parish in Regina. He continued his ministry to serve faithfully at St. John the Baptist, Estevan, SK (1968-1971). He returned to Regina in 1971, and remained there until his passing. In Regina, he served at Christ the King, (1971-1980), St. Cecilia (1980-1989), and St. Martin de Porres (1989-1993). After his retirement as parish priest, he provided Sunday ministry at Regina Pioneer Village and the Pasqua Hospital.
Fr. Hogan was Vicar General from February 1975 until November 1993. In April 1994, after the death of Archbishop Charles Halpin, the College of Consultors elected Msgr. Hogan to be Diocesan Administrator. He held that position until July 1995, with the installation of the Most Reverend Peter Mallon as Archbishop.
Over the course of 77 years of priesthood, his accomplishments only hint at the depth of our Fr. Mike. Thousands were touched by his devotion and humanity. He was also a key member of our family in Canada. Many years ago, his cousin, Marie Nolan, came from Ireland to visit him in Kenaston, SK. She stayed in Saskatchewan, and met Walter Luchenski. They married, and began a family that loved him deeply and knew him well. He was our cousin, confidante, and dear friend. Since childhood, I (Tekla Luchenski) called him my Buddy-in-law, and we were close forever. We moved around as a family, so we would keep in touch with letters. I was always the designated letter reader in our family, since I was the only person who could read his writing. He married Walter and Marie, and was an important spiritual and personal support for them. In time, he buried them. He baptized and married us, their four children. When we started families, he baptized our children too. In between sacraments, he was always an anchor in our family. No celebration was complete without him. We spent many summers growing up visiting him at his rectory, wherever he was. He taught us chess, with his “special” rules. We had animated discussions about our faith, and he would always respond thoughtfully, and candidly, challenging us in return. We teased him with childish pranks, and laughed at his antics. We shared him with a community we couldn’t fathom, but he was always our Fr. Mike.
Nephew Gerard Stembridge (Dublin, Ireland), sent words of condolence to his Canadian family that captured Msgr. Hogan’s character. He wrote, “It was truly a remarkable life and Fr. Michael, as we called him in Ireland, was a significant advertisement for the virtues of a life full of riches but lived in moderation. I remember his visits to Ireland and how impressed I always was with the considerable range of his intelligence and yet how lightly he wore it. His interests and knowledge were wide and he knew how to talk to anyone, anywhere. He had a keen wit which he balanced with a gentle manner. He ate with delight, but only just enough. He enjoyed a drink but only on occasion. Even when he walked… [it was] easy and relaxed; he strolled, never anxious or hurried, and yet he was always on time. He enjoyed visiting friends and relatives but never outstayed his welcome. I particularly enjoyed how he would announce his departure politely and then leave immediately – so unlike the Irish style of saying goodbye, but lingering, of almost leaving, then lingering again, ‘and just one more thing…’. I have no doubt that at some point yesterday he said to himself, ‘It is time to leave,’ and he went.”
Ireland was always in Msgr. Hogan’s heart, and he returned regularly to visit his family. When the covid-19 crisis is over, he will find his final resting place in Limerick, together with his parents. Still, Saskatchewan was also his home. He said, “Regina is a marvelous place to live. Within 15 minutes, you can be almost anywhere. You have all the amenities you need for a big city and the people are just delightful. What more can you ask for?”
His was a life to be cherished, remembered, celebrated, and emulated.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Daughters of Mary Mother of the Church, who cared for Msgr. Hogan at Martha House and then at Trinity Manor. Sr. Jessica was especially kind to him, and to his family. May God continue to bless them in their work, and to bless us with them. Donations in Msgr. Hogan’s memory may be made to the Education of Priests Fund, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina, 445 Broad Street North, Regina, SK S4R 2X8.
“When he shall die,
Take him and cut him out in little stars,
And he will make the face of heaven so fine
That all the world will be in love with night
And pay no worship to the garish sun.”
(William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet)
Due to the covid-19 restrictions, a Private Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. Relatives and friends may reach out to the Hogan family by visiting Msgr. Hogan’s Tribute Page at www.speersfuneralchapel.com to let them know that you are thinking of them during this difficult time. To view the livestream of the service, please click on the link at the top of Rev. Msgr. Michael Hogan’s Tribute Page.
Father Murton Miller passed away in Edmonton on Saturday, August 3, 2019, at the age of 93 years. Father Miller was born in 1926 in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. He was ordained on July 1, 1962 for the Diocese of Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan (now merged with the Archdiocese of Regina). Fr. Murton served in Swift Current, Gull Lake and missions, Mankota and missions, Rockglen and Lisieux, Maple Creek and Tompkins. In 1994, when he retired, he took up residence in the Archdiocese of Edmonton. During that time, he offered assistance in parishes throughout the Archdiocese when pastors needed a replacement. Father Murton is lovingly remembered by his brother, Bernard Miller, and several nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Cecelia (nee Thibodeau), and his brothers, Eldon and Leonard. A Funeral Mass presided by Most Reverend Richard Smith, Archbishop of Edmonton will take place on Thursday, August 8, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 12810-111 Avenue, Edmonton. We offer condolences to his family, his brother priests and to his many friends. Let us pray for the repose of his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, that through the mercy of God, they may rest in peace. To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com
Father Emmett died peacefully on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home, Regina, SK. He was born in Regina on February 8, 1931. Predeceased by his parents, Margaret (Strain) and Thomas Morrissey; brothers, Robert, Norm, William and Roy; sisters, Roberta, and Genevieve; and niece Candice Morrissey. Father Emmett is survived by nephews, James, Gordon, Raymond and Thomas Pardy; and Thomas, Robert, Michael, and Stephen Morrissey; niece Michele Cronin; and several grandnieces and nephews. Family and friends wish to thank the staff at Santa Maria for their wonderful, generous loving care. A Prayer Vigil will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church, 2049 Scarth Street, Regina, SK, on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church, on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. with Archbishop Donald Bolen presiding. Interment in Riverside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in loving memory of Rev. Emmett to the Marian Centre, 1835 Halifax St., Regina, SK, S4P 1T4. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com
ROY, Reverend Theodore Bruno, passed away quietly on Friday, February 1, 2019 at the age of 98, after a short illness. He died in the hospital at Fort Qu’Appelle. He was born in Meyronne, Sask. where he attended school and helped on the family farm. He enlisted during WWII and served overseas as a Crash Rescue Firefighter. He returned home to farm, then went back to school and studied to become a priest. He was ordained June 12, 1954 in Meyronne, Sask. He served in many different parishes in the Archdiocese of Regina and the suppressed Diocese of Gravelbourg ending up in Quinton in 1982 where he lived and worked until he moved to Raymore in 2012. He provided chaplaincy services to St. Joseph’s Integrated Care Home until 2014 when he became a permanent resident at the home. Fr. Roy is survived by his sister, Bonnie and several nieces and nephews. Prayers will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. at Holy Rosary Cathedral and the Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Holy Rosary Cathedral. The interment will be in Meyronne on Thursday, February 7, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.
March 10, 1924 – November 8, 2018
With sadness, we announce the death of Fr. Stephen Ripplinger on November 8, 2018. Fr. Steve was born on March 10, 1924 to Stephan and Catherine Ripplinger on a farm 1 mile south of Kendal, SK. Fr. Steve is survived by his siblings: Bernie Ripplinger (Angie), Edwin Ripplinger (Donna) and Bernadette Agi; brother-in-law Walter Rog, sister-in-law Clementine Ripplinger as well as many nieces nephews and friends. As well, Father Steve leaves to mourn Joan – the other half of the “team” – who worked with Father in Moose Jaw at Church of our Lady and Sacred Heart Parish in Davidson. For 45 years Joan wore many hats: parish worker, secretary, liturgist, confidante, companion and caregiver. Father Steve spent 3 years in the army in the Ordinance Corps in Montreal, working in the dock yards loading ships carrying war supplies to USSR ports. After the war, Fr. Steve entered St. Joseph Seminary in Edmonton for 3 years and then 4 years in Regina Cleri Seminary. Fr. Steve was ordained in 1953 as one member of the largest ordination class ever in the Archdiocese of Regina. After various early postings, he became pastor of Ceylon and the missions of Tribune and Trossachs, where he was for 15 years. Following this, Fr. Steve was co-pastor at Little Flower Parish in Regina. In 1971 -72, Father obtained his Master’s degree in “Pastoral Counselling” from St. Paul’s University in Ottawa and he was often sought out by individuals and families for help. On August 1, 1972, Fr. Steve was appointed Pastor of Church of our Lady in Moose Jaw, where he served for 16 years. In July 1988, Father was transferred to Davidson parish for 8 years. Throughout his 60 years of pastoring, Fr. Steve was always involved in the community in which he lived; he promoted and supported the C.W.L. in his parishes, was a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus and the Legion. Fr. Steve was an enthusiastic sportsman and outdoors man – belonging to wildlife groups and receiving numerous trophies for fishing, hunting, bowling and curling and became quite a good taxidermist and painter. Fr. Steve retired as a parish priest in 1996 and moved out to his cabin at Diefenbaker Lake. He then served the mission of Davidson at Elbow until he was 90 years old. Throughout his years of priesting, Fr. Steve was a “people” person. He treated everyone equally, no matter their status, making all feel welcome and important. Because of this, people have loved him and remembered him. Prayers were held on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. and the Mass Of Christian Burial on November 15, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. in the Holy Rosary Cathedral, Regina, SK with lunch to follow. Interment will be held in the Kendal Community Cemetery, Kendal, SK. For those wishing donations may be made to Heart & Stroke Foundation. Hanson’s Funeral Service of Davidson, SK in care of arrangements.
Father Joe Firkola passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 23, 2018. He was born in Spy Hill, Saskatchewan, the first born of Joseph and Mary (Orosz) Firkola on March 24, 1930. He was educated in Grove Park School and St. Peter’s College in Muenster, SK. Joe continued his studies in Philosophy and Theology at St. Peter’s Seminary, University of Western Ontario, receiving Bachelor of Arts in Honours Philosophy in 1954. He answered the call to the priesthood and continued his study of Theology at St. Peter’s Seminary, London Ontario. Father Joe was ordained to the priesthood on May 27, 1956 at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, Kaposvar, SK. Father chose as his Motto the words of Jesus, “I have come that they may have life and have it more abundantly”. (Jn 10:10)
Father Joe served the parishes of St. Cecilia, Sacred Heart, St. Martin de Porres in Regina and the rural parishes of Lestock, Esterhazy, Stockholm, Kaposvar, Cupar and numerus Adjoining Missions.
Father Joe extended his service to include special ministries. The Lestock Metis Co-op Farm, numerous Youth Camps, Catholic Family Movement, Vocations to name only a few and has enjoyed many lifelong friendships made in each.
In 1984, Father Joe continued his studies in psychology at the U of R. When he retired from active parish ministry in 1987, he embarked on a new career in Real Estate until 1998 – and continued to enjoy replacement Ministry in the Archdiocese of Regina until his health made it impossible.
He was predeceased by his parents, sisters, Bertha Poncsak and Agnes Blompied. He is survived by his brothers, Frank (Martha) and Denis (Shirley), as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Prayers will be held at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Cathedral, 2104 Garnet Street on Monday, October 29, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. with Archbishop Don Bolen officiating. Interment in Riverside Memorial Park. Flowers gratefully declined. Those so wishing may make donations in memory of Father Joe to the Marian Centre, 1835 Halifax Street, Regina, SK S4P 1T4.
Father Eugene Lukasik Aged 86 years of Moose Jaw, SK passed away peacefully on Monday, May 21, 2018. Father Eugene was born November 9, 1931 in Czestochowa, Poland. He was ordained to the priesthood in Warsaw in 1958. He left Poland for the Americas in 1968 and lived in Houston, Texas for a few years. Father Eugene came to the Regina Archdiocese in 1972 and was a Parish Priest in various places before coming to Moose Jaw in 1984.
He served in Providence Hospital, Moose Jaw Union Hospital, St Anthony’s Home, and Providence Place before retiring in 2005. He is survived by his sister, Mary Smith of Tucson, Arizona.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 25, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. in Church of Our Lady, 566 Vaughan St, Moose Jaw, SK. The Archbishop of Regina, Most Reverend Donald J. Bolen will be presiding and the Clergy of the Archdiocese of Regina will be con-celebrating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Interment will take place in Rosedale Cemetery following the Funeral Mass. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Archdiocese of Regina, 445 N Broad St, Regina, SK S4R 2X8. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. James Murdock, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
Father Cyril Lambertus finished his priestly work for the Lord on Friday, April 27th, 2018 at Whiterock, B.C. at the age of 100 after serving as a priest for almost 71 years. Father Lambertus was born May 30th, 1917 at the Glen Holly farm family home four miles east of Moose Jaw on number one highway. He was the seventh child of Maurice John and Helen Agnes (nee: Murray) Lambertus family.
He was predeceased by his parents Maurice & Helen, two sisters Margaret Cafferata,and Sister Margaret Lambertus, IBVM; and four brothers Maurice Jerome, Patrick, Joseph and Francis.
Father Lambertus completed his elementary studies at St. Agnes School, Moose Jaw and his high school at St. Joseph’s College, Yorkton; and then studied at Campion College, Regina and St. Mary’s College, Brockville, Ontario.
After spending one year at the Redemptorist novitiate in St. John, New Brunswick, he was accepted into the St. Joseph’s Seminary, Edmonton, Alberta for a two year study of Philosophy. In September of 1943 he entered the Regina Diocesan Seminary for a four year study of Theology.
Father Lambertus was ordained a priest by Archbishop Gerald Murray on June 8, 1947 at his parental parish church of St. Joseph’s, Moose Jaw. For the next 37 years Father Lambertus served at Quinton, Radville, Minton, Benson, Bienfait, Oxbow, Cedoux, Good Samaritan in Regina, and Rowatt and was Chaplain at the Regina Correctional Centre for the last six years of his active priestly ministry.
In the late 1980’s Fr Lambertus retired out at White Rock B.C. where on a needed basis he offered mass at Star of the Sea church White Rock, and Holy Cross at Crescent Beach B.C. Shortly after the turn of the century Father Lambertus entered into the K of C assisted living facilities in Delta B.C. and thereafter transferred into Long Term Care at Laurel Place in Surrey B.C. where he passed away.
Funeral services: A Funeral Mass was held at St. Eugene, Minton, Sk on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. with Fr. Thuy presiding and Fr. Abello preaching. Fr. Lambertus will be buried in the cemetery at Minton. A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, May 10, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish, 1064-3rd Ave. NW., Moose Jaw, SK with Fr. George Thattuparampil, MST presiding and preaching
Father Arthur Vandendriessche fulfilled his earthly life on Friday, May 26, 2017 at Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home. Father Van was born February 4, 1928 in Weyburn, SK, the seventh of nine children. He studied at the London seminary before being ordained a priest on May 30, 1953, and served in many parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Regina. Father Van leaves to mourn his sister Olive McAllister (Ottawa); brother Ron Vandendriessche (Ottawa); as well as many nephews, nieces, grandnephews and grandnieces. He also leaves his brother priests and religious sisters, Archdiocesan staff, and lay people of the Archdiocese. Many thanks to the pastoral care, nursing and support staff at Santa Maria, who we know will also miss him. Prayers will be held at Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home Chapel, 4215 Regina Avenue, Regina, SK on Sunday, May 28, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. Mass of the Resurrection will be held at Holy Child Parish, 2636 7th Avenue East, Regina, SK on Monday, May 29, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. with interment at Riverside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Father Van may be made to Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home, 4215 Regina Avenue, Regina, SK S4S 0J5. To leave an online
message of condolence, please visit – See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/leaderpost/obituary.aspx…
To watch Fr. Van’s interview about his vocation for the 2010 “Year of the Priest”, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMAaR7I5CfQ
Father Armand Leo Guenette was born to Jean-Baptiste and Eva (Marion) Guenette on September 21, 1926 in St. Boniface, Manitoba. He was the youngest of eight children. When he was four, the family moved from La Broquerie to Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan. He attended school with the Sisters of Jesus and Mary and then went on to College Mathieu with the Oblate Fathers. After graduating from College Mathieu in 1949, Armand entered the seminary in St. Boniface, Manitoba. He was ordained into the priesthood on June 14th, 1953. Father Guenette served many parishes and missions in southern Saskatchewan including Willow Bunch, Dollard, Hodgeville, Gravelbourg, Gull Lake and Swift Current. In 2006 Father Guenette retired and returned to his hometown of Gravelbourg. Even in retirement he continued to serve the parish by celebrating weekly Masses at the Pioneer Villa and daily Mass at the Chapel at the Foyer d’Youville. He continued to celebrate Mass at the Chapel up until his health no longer allowed him to do so. Father Guenette presided over countless wedding masses and baptisms over the years including many for family members. Armand loved to travel. He made numerous trips to Jasper as well as the Columbia Ice Fields. He took many trips to California with his sister Rose. He also had a passion for cooking. Armand began to suffer from poor health just over a year ago. It was then that he moved from the Villa to the Foyer d’Youville. As he demonstrated through all his life, he never complained about not feeling well and kept his witty sense of humour right to the end. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 4th at the age of 90. Armand was predeceased by his parents Jean-Baptiste and Eva and his siblings Rose, Helene, Henri, Hector, Irene, Eugene and Edmond. He is survived by numerous nephews and nieces. The family would like to thank the staff of the Foyer d’Youville for their care and compassion. Prayer Vigil will be held on Sunday, January 8, 2017, at 7:00 p.m., and Mass of the Christian Burial on Monday, January 9, 2017, at 2:00 p.m., both at Our Lady of Assumption Co-Cathedral, Gravelbourg, SK, with the Most Reverend Archbishop Donald Bolen presiding at the Funeral Mass. Interment will take place at a later date. Donations in Father Guenette’s memory may be made to the Foyer d’Youville Foundation, Box 810, Gravelbourg, SK S0H 1X0. Online condolences can be shared at www.pichehawkinsgrondinfuneralchapels.ca
For 46 years Reverend F. William (Bill) Mahoney served first the Diocese of Gravelbourg then the Archdiocese of Regina not only as a diocesan priest but in various other ministries as well. Father Mahoney died at the age of 78 after failing health forced an early retirement in 2009.
Mahoney was born in Swift Current, obtained his early education in Success, Saskatchewan, high school at Campion College in Regina and St. Peter’s College, Muenster, Saskatchewan. He studied philosophy at St. Joseph’s Seminary Edmonton, then transferred to Le Grande Seminaire de. St. Boniface where he studied theology and completed those studies at Le Grande Seminaire d’Ottawa. He was ordained priest May 19, 1963 in his home parish of Sacred Heart, Swift Current.
He served first in the Marriage Tribunal of the former Diocese of Gravelbourg as well as in several rural diocese parishes. He studied psychology at the Illinois University of Professional Psychology in 1980 and became a psychotherapist at Bosco Homes treating troubled youth until the organization closed its doors. During that time he also served as priest in several rural Archdiocese parishes.
He developed the Archdiocese’s first set of guidelines for dealing with sexual abuse in the church. He was also the Coordinator of the Archdiocesan Lay Ministry Program and, for many years, provided personnel support for the Regina Archdiocese. He spent some time working with Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India which grew his concern for social justice and the underprivileged. Mahoney was also involved in the organization of Development and Peace in Saskatchewan. The last 13 years of his ministry was spent as Parish Priest at Regina’s Little Flower Parish where he worked with Sister Melvina Hruska RNDM who in the latter years of his life became his care giver.
“He was very compassionate and merciful,” said Hruska in an interview with the PM. “He had a heart as big as he was.” Hruska said Mahoney had a tremendous capacity for knowledge.
Sister Hruska was with him and three members of his family when he died, January 19. “It was a gift for me to be there as he greeted death joyfully. He gave to his dying the same energy and zest he gave to every other ministry he had in his lifetime and he never lost his sense of humour even as he was dying. “
Father Bill leaves to mourn his two brothers, Maurice and Brian and their families, many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews.
Archbishop Daniel Bohan’s earthly life ended January 15, 2016 at 6 a.m. in Regina’s Pasqua Hospital after a battle with lung cancer.
Archbishop Bohan was born, November 8, 1941, in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia where his father was in the military. He was the first child in a family of six who grew up in Moncton, New Brunswick where he received his early education.
He entered Halifax, Nova Scotia’s Holy Heart Seminary in 1963 and ordained priest May 13, 1967. Along the way he obtained an Arts Degree, from St. Thomas University, Chatham, New Brunswick ; a Theology degree from Holy Heart Seminary, a Sacred Theology Degree from Universite’ Laval, Quebec and a Masters of Theology Degree from Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana. He taught Moral Theology at Holy Heart Seminary prior to his appointment as bishop.
He served as Pastor in several Maritime parishes before being appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto May 14, 2003 and ordained bishop in July 3, 2003 in his home parish of St. Augustine’s Church, Moncton. Pope John Paul II appointed him Archbishop of the Regina Archdiocese, March 30, 2005. Archbishop Bohan was one of the last appointments made by Pope John Paul II now St. John Paul II.
The Archbishop began his long involvement in ecumenism in 1999 when he was appointed as the Roman Catholic representative to the Gospel, Ecumenical and Theology Committee of the Maritime Conference of the United Church of Canada. Shortly after his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto he was appointed to the Social Affairs Committee of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB). He was past chairman of the Episcopal Commission for Christian Unity, Religious Relations with the Jews, and Interfaith Dialogue and remained on the committee after his chairmanship. He was past chair of the Board of the National Catholic Broadcasting Council and Past President of the Assembly of Western Bishops. He sat on the Ad Hoc Committee for Aboriginal Ministry of the Assembly of Western Bishops and was recently appointed co-chair of the newly formed National Roman Catholic/Evangelical Dialogue. In 2012 Archbishop Bohan was appointed to the Pontifical Council for Inter-Religious Dialogue and also became a member of the Board of Governors for Catholic Missions in Canada and in 2014 he was appointed as one of three CCCB delegates on the Canadian Council of Churches (CCC). As a member of the Pontifical Council, he presented letters from the council to members of the Regina, Sikh, Hindu and Muslim communities recognizing and acknowledging their religious days and building bridges with those communities.
Archbishop Bohan leaves to mourn his mother, Rita, in Moncton, New Brunswick, two sisters, three brothers all residing in the Maritimes, many nephews, nieces, grandnephews grandnieces and, the priests, religious, archdiocesan staff and lay people of the Regina Archdiocese.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Archbishop Daniel Bohan may be made to the Education of Priests Fund, 445 Broad Street North, Regina, SK, S4R 2X8 or you may donate online at https://www.canadahelps.org/dn/3509. Thank YOU!
Vicar General Very Reverend Lorne Crozon will assume the duties of Archbishop until the Archdiocesan Consulters elect an administrator who will serve until a new Archbishop is appointed.
November 20th, 1947 – January 4th, 2015. Fr. Patrick passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, Saskatoon on Sunday, January 4th, 2015. He was born in Prszemysl, in Poland. Father Patrick was ordained June 22nd, 1975 into the order of the Black Franciscans. He served as parish priest in Poland, until his exile to France in 1984 as a political refugee. He then came to the Diocese of Peterborough, Ontario and in 1988 he joined the Archdiocese of Regina where he served in a variety of parishes. In 2005, Father Patrick moved to Saskatoon due to health issues. In 2007, he was appointed chaplain at St. Ann’s Senior Citizen Village in Saskatoon and remained there until April 2012 when he retired due to failing health. Father Patrick then became a resident of St. Joseph’s Ukrainian Catholic Home where he resided until his death. Father Patrick’s hobbies included coin, stamp and “pen” collecting. He was also a member of the Toast Masters Club since 1982. Special thanks to Dr. Barton and the Renal staff at St.Paul’s Hospital, Dr. James and staff at the ICU and 5th Floor, RUH and the Sisters and staff at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home.
Archbishop Raymond Roussin’s life of dedication, faith, struggle and hope is over. The retired archbishop of Vancouver died in Winnipeg April 24. He was 75.
Archbishop Roussin’s public struggle with clinical depression in 2006 earned him the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Mental Health Voices Award for his efforts to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and advance the cause of mental health. But his life in Christ and in service to the Church could never be defined by his illness.
Archbishop Roussin was just 18 years old in 1957 when he vowed poverty, chastity and obedience with the Society of Mary. Born in Winnipeg in 1939, he had been educated in the French Catholic schools of St. Boniface, Man. He went on to university studies in San Antonio, Texas, and St. Louis.
By 1970 he had obtained a licentiate in theology from the University of Fribourg, where he was ordained a priest.
As a teacher, a school administrator and a chaplain he worked in St. Louis, St. Anselme, Que., St. Boniface and Winnipeg, where he was chaplain to St. Paul’s College at the University of Manitoba.
Within his own Marianist community, Archbishop Roussin was a trusted leader on the provincial council of the order, eventually serving as provincial superior from 1980 to 1987.
He was ordained bishop of Gravelbourg, Man., in 1995. He became coadjutor, then bishop, of Victoria, B.C., in 1998. He led the diocese of Vancouver as archbishop from 2004 to 2009.
After four months leave to deal with depression in 2006, Archbishop Roussin returned to speak to his priests about drawing closer to Jesus.
“There is no doubt about it, this past year has been most difficult for me,” Archbishop Roussin told a gathering of Vancouver priests on his return. “I have always preached the way of Christ, which ultimately brings us to His cross and resurrection… These last months helped me enormously to refocus my life on Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ specifically present to all I live, to all we live.”
After his return in 2006 Archbishop Roussin stepped back from administrative tasks to spend more time visiting parishes, schools and hospitals — to spend more time with Catholics of the archdiocese.
On Friday, July 10, 2015 “Sister Death” embraced our brother, Anthony Andrew John Gonsalves. Tony was a professed Franciscan Friar for 53 years and an ordained priest for “six months less” than 50 years, died in Duncan, BC, at the age of 75. He was born on February 4, 1940, to Joachim and Clementine (Correa) Gonsalves, in Karachi, India (Note: India was not divided at that time), and is survived by two brothers, Fermin (Montreal) and Marshal (Denmark). Tony was received into the Franciscan Order on May 31, 1961, in Palmaner, India, made his first profession of vows on June 1, 1962, and given the religious name “Joachim.” He made his solemn profession of vows on August 2, 1966, and was ordained a priest on January 6, 1968, in Karachi, Pakistan.
Tony served the Franciscan community in Pakistan in leadership roles and as a formator and pastor until he transferred to Canada in 1993, to join the Franciscans of Western Canada. He is well-known for his pastoral skills and faithfully served his Franciscan community and the People of God in Canada in many capacities. Tony served as pastor at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, in Edmonton, AB, from 1993 to 2001; as guardian of St. Francis Friary, in Winnipeg, MB, from 2001 to 2004; pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, in Victoria, BC, from 2004 to 2007; guardian of St. Michael’s Friary and pastor of the Parishes of St. Peter and St. Jerome (Regina Beach) in Lumsden, SK, from 2007 to 2011; guardian of St. Joseph’s Friary and adminstrator of Holy Cross Parish, in Victoria, BC, from 2011 to 2013; director of San Damiano Friary, in Duncan, BC, from 2013 to 2015, and administrator of St. Joseph Parish, Chemainus, BC, and St. Mary Parish, Ladysmith, BC, from 2014-2015. – See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/edmontonjournal/obituary.aspx?pid=175293936#sthash.LacVFGiq.dpuf
A lifelong battle with a genetic kidney disease finally took the life of Reverend Peter Luttmer who died July 1 2015. He was on medical leave from the Regina Archdiocese since 1997.
Luttmer was raised on a farm near Zehner, Saskatchewan and received his early education in a one-room school house, attended Miller High School in Regina and received a B.A. from the University of Regina, entered St. Joseph Seminary, Edmonton and was ordained priest in 1979 by Archbishop Charles Halpin. He served parishes in Weyburn, Claybank, Canora, Moose-Jaw and St. Cecelia Parish in Regina before taking medical leave.
Luttmer’s sister-in-law, Kay Luttmer, described him as a courageous and kind man. He travelled behind the Iron Curtain before the Berlin Wall came down to track down some relatives and convinced a cousin, Thomas Kmet, born in Czechoslovakia, to come to Canada. Kmet was the Eulogist at Luttmer’s funeral and his wife Miriam was soloist. “He was also an avid cook and gardener,” said his sister-in-law.
Luttmer had his life prolonged thanks to a kidney donation from his identical twin brother Paul. “It lasted much longer than expected,” said Kay Luttmer. Reverend Louis Abello who presided at Luttmer’s funeral in Sedley, Saskatchewan jokedduring his homily that the twins looked so much alike that you sometimes wondered whether you had gone to Paul for confession or Peter for a bank loan. Paul was a banker. Kay said the brothers celebrated their birthday on the feast day of Sts. Peter and Paul, in June but their actual birthday was in January.
Peter had four brothers and one sister. He is survived by his twin Paul and older brother Gerald. Funeral services were held at Our Lady of Grace Parish, Sedley, and he was buried in the church cemetery.
Father John passed away peacefully March 6, 2014, on his father’s birthday, at the Union Hospital in Moose Jaw, at the age of 85 years. Father John was born on December 4, 1928, on the family farm ten miles north of Coronach, SK. He was the fourth child of Michael and Mary Foley. Sadly, in 1940, his father died when John was 11 years old. Father John always praised and thanked his mother for being a model in faith as she had to raise six children by herself. He loved helping on the farm and enjoyed sports, fishing, singing and family gatherings. He was ordained on June 17, 1954. Father John served at many parishes in the Archdiocese of Regina. He retired in 2012 and moved to the Prairie Villa in Assiniboia, SK, which he called home. Father John is survived by his sisters, Patricia Jones, Kathleen Jones; brother Carl Foley (Francoise); sisters-in-law Berniece Foley, Helen Foley; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Mary (nee O’Brien) Foley; brothers Clarence Foley, Elmer Foley; brothers-in-law Russell Jones, Charlie Jones. Prayer Service will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2014, at 7:30 p.m., and Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 14, 2014, at 2:00 p.m., both at St. George Roman Catholic Church, 325 6th Ave. E., Assiniboia, SK. Father John will be interred at the Coronach Cemetery beside his parents.
A heart attack December 14, 2013 claimed the life of Reverend David Banga while in Kharsala, West Bengal, India, checking on a boarding school he was having built. He was buried December 16 on the school property. He was 69.
Reverend Banga was born November 11, 1943 in the Stockholm area where he grew up and received his elementary and most of his high school education. He completed Grade 12 and first year university at St. Peter’s College, Muenster. After a year at the Benedictine Monastery, Muenster, he attended St. Peter’s Seminary, London, Ontario and was ordained priest May 21, 1972 at St. Elizabeth’s parish, Stockholm. His pastoral service took him to a variety of rural parishes in the Regina Archdiocese ending at Carlyle, Saskatchewan where he had served for 39 years as director of the girls and boys Kome’NSee summer camp at Kenosee, Lake.
His sister Marilyn Wallis of British Columbia said he was a jovial individual who loved people but the highlight of his life was meeting Mother Teresa in India in 1973 a year after his ordination. He developed a great love for her and the Missionaries of Charity which she founded and the work they do with the poor of Calcutta. He had met and worked several times with Mother Teresa and with that influence built the Mother Teresa Retreat Centre at Kenosee Lake, near Carlyle. “He was doing what he loved to do,” said Wallis. “I thank God I had 10 days with him here before we took him to the airport for his visit to India.”
Niece Jennifer Tourney described her uncle as a prankster who loved to play cards and tell stories. “Joy was important to him.” Tourney for 20 summers worked at the Kome N See camp and described Banga as a man who loved people. “He had two horses, Bucky and Buddy, he hitched to a wagon and used it in parades in Stockholm and gave rides to kids at the camp.” He also loved music and together they attended several concerts at the Los Angeles Religious Education Conference. He was predeceased by his parents, two brothers and a sister, survived by his sister Marilyn Wallis, brother Alex and sisters-in-law Mary and Janie.
Rev. David
When the family returned to Moose Jaw in 1952, they attended the Redemptorist parish of St. Joseph’s, where David was an altar server. He attended St. Louis College (1952-1954) and travelled to St. Mary’s College, the Redemptorist juvenate just outside Brockville, ON in September 1954, graduating in June 1959. A month later, he entered the Redemptorist Novitiate in Keswick, ON, professing first vows on August 22, 1960.
Fr. David studied at Holy Redeemer College, Windsor (1960-1964) and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Windsor in 1963. On June 18, 1966, he was ordained by Archbishop Michael O’Neill in the home parish of St. Joseph’s, Moose Jaw. He continued seminary studies at Mont St. Joseph at Aylmer, Quebec (1964-1967). After earning a bachelor of education from the University of Alberta in 1968, he taught at Holy Redeemer College, Edmonton, (1968-1969) and was a chaplain and teacher at Canadian Forces Base, Edmonton (1970-1972). He was appointed vocation director (1973-1975) for the Edmonton Province.
In 1975, he was asked to join a new mission preaching team, on which he served for almost 25 years (1975-1984, 1991-1998 and 2002-2010), travelling to parishes across Western Canada. Fr. David was a true son of the prairies and felt most at home with the flat earth and open skies. He observed that, “there’s an unhurried, patient quality about a prairie spirituality.”
Between appointments to the mission team, Fr. David obtained a Masters of Arts degree in spirituality (1985) at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh and served as director of formation and the novitiate in Edmonton (1985-1991). His warm smile and his gentle heart made him a compassionate channel of the Good News of Jesus, in his preaching and in a very powerful way as a confessor and counsellor. In 1999, he returned to his home parish of St. Joseph’s as the last Redemptorist pastor. The order left the parish in 2002.
Based in St. Mary’s parish, Saskatoon, he returned to preaching missions until retirement. Among the Redemptorists, there are only a few who were seen as “giants” in their preaching of Parish Missions. Fr. David can be counted among those who were gifted to move people to a conversion of heart by his preaching.
Close to his death, he shared with his old mission partner, Bob Williston, that there is only one thing more he’d like to do before going to heaven; to go and preach some missions once again.
C.Ss.R. passed to his eternal reward March 23, 2013. Born on February 14, 1940 in Moose Jaw, son of Albert and Marie Cottingham (nee Diemert) and survived by two sisters; Mary Louise Severson and Carol Ann White. The family moved to Caron, where David attended Caron public school (1946-1952). Since there was not a church in Caron, the Redemptorists, who served the area, celebrated Mass in the Cottingham home.
When the family returned to Moose Jaw in 1952, they attended the Redemptorist parish of St. Joseph’s, where David was an altar server. He attended St. Louis College (1952-1954) and travelled to St. Mary’s College, the Redemptorist juvenate just outside Brockville, ON in September 1954, graduating in June 1959. A month later, he entered the Redemptorist Novitiate in Keswick, ON, professing first vows on August 22, 1960.
Fr. David studied at Holy Redeemer College, Windsor (1960-1964) and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Windsor in 1963. On June 18, 1966, he was ordained by Archbishop Michael O’Neill in the home parish of St. Joseph’s, Moose Jaw. He continued seminary studies at Mont St. Joseph at Aylmer, Quebec (1964-1967). After earning a bachelor of education from the University of Alberta in 1968, he taught at Holy Redeemer College, Edmonton, (1968-1969) and was a chaplain and teacher at Canadian Forces Base, Edmonton (1970-1972). He was appointed vocation director (1973-1975) for the Edmonton Province.
In 1975, he was asked to join a new mission preaching team, on which he served for almost 25 years (1975-1984, 1991-1998 and 2002-2010), travelling to parishes across Western Canada. Fr. David was a true son of the prairies and felt most at home with the flat earth and open skies. He observed that, “there’s an unhurried, patient quality about a prairie spirituality.”
Between appointments to the mission team, Fr. David obtained a Masters of Arts degree in spirituality (1985) at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh and served as director of formation and the novitiate in Edmonton (1985-1991). His warm smile and his gentle heart made him a compassionate channel of the Good News of Jesus, in his preaching and in a very powerful way as a confessor and counsellor. In 1999, he returned to his home parish of St. Joseph’s as the last Redemptorist pastor. The order left the parish in 2002.
Based in St. Mary’s parish, Saskatoon, he returned to preaching missions until retirement. Among the Redemptorists, there are only a few who were seen as “giants” in their preaching of Parish Missions. Fr. David can be counted among those who were gifted to move people to a conversion of heart by his preaching.
Close to his death, he shared with his old mission partner, Bob Williston, that there is only one thing more he’d like to do before going to heaven; to go and preach some missions once again.
Reverend Emile Leonard Toupin was born in 1924, the second of a family of five. He was predeceased by his older brother Desire and his younger sister Anita. He is survived by his sister, Jeannette of Surrey, B.C., sister-in-law, Jeanne, of Storthoaks and younger brother Rudy, of Regina, as well as many nephews, nieces and cousins. Emile was ordained as priest for the Archdiocese of Regina in 1957, and during his 50 year career served 18 parishes and missions in the south-east corner of the province. After his retirement, he moved to Martha House in Regina. Due to severe illness, he was moved to Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home in April 2013 where he died on May 7, 2013, with relatives and friends praying by his side.
Brother Alfred Joseph Vos, O.F.M., passed away in Regina, SK on Monday August 26, 2013. He was born May 8, 1920 to Henry and Catherine (Slattery) Vos and baptized May 13, 1920 at St. Boniface Church, Spring Lake, AB. He served with the Canadian Forces from 1942 – 1946, including a time overseas during WWII. After seven years on the home farm, he began his life with the Franciscan Order in 1953 and made his vows in 1956. During his 60 years as a Franciscan, he served in a variety of ministries at Mount St. Francis Retreat (Cochrane, AB), St. Francis Solano Parish (Vancouver, BC) and St. Michaelís Retreat (Lumsden, SK). He will be well remembered for his gentle manner in the many tasks he prayerfully undertook. One of thirteen children, he was predeceased by his sisters and brothers, Florence, Helen, Mabel, Mary, Cecelia, Anthony, Leo, Sr. Mary Rose (Irene) and Agnes. He will be lovingly remembered by his Franciscan brothers; siblings, Kay Rath, Hank (Mary) and Gen; as well as his many nieces, nephews and friends.
ADAM SEBASTIAN, OFM, 96 years of age, a professed Franciscan Friar for 76 years, and a priest for 69 years, embraced Sister Death on Wednesday, October 30, 2013, at Santa Maria Nursing Home, in Regina, SK. Adam is survived by three brothers, Joseph, Fr. Anthony and Ignatius; and one sister Sr. Magdalena. He was predeceased by two brothers, Fr. Carlos and Frank; and one sister Mary. His earthly journey began in Kendal, SK, on October 10, 1917, the third of eight children born to Adam and Mary (Wild) Sebastian, and was given the name “Jacob.” However, at some point in time he answered to the name “Jack,” and later, upon entering religious life, Jack took a new name, “Adam.” Adam was one of three brothers who joined the Franciscan Friars. He was received into the Franciscan Order in 1936, and spent his initial formation years in Sherbrooke, Quebec City and Montreal, QC. In 1937 he made his first profession of vows, and then made solemn profession to the Franciscan Order in Montreal, in 1940. Four years of theological studies later, Adam was ordained a priest at Holy Rosary Cathedral, in Regina, SK. After ordination, Adam moved to St. Anthony’s College, in Edmonton, AB, where he was teacher, principal, rector and guardian. From 1952 to 1955, because he knew the German language, Adam cared for many German speaking immigrants who moved to Edmonton. In 1955, at the age of 38, Adam was named, by the Minister General for the Franciscan Order the first “Autonomous Custos” of the newly created independent religious entity, “The Franciscans of Western Canada.” Most of Adam’s Franciscan life was lived at St. Michael’s Retreat, in Lumsden, SK, and the majority of his years in ministry were spent in southern SK. In the summer of 2002, at the age of 84, Adam decided it was time to retire from being a pastor of three parishes, St. Peter’s, in Lumsden, SK, St. Jerome’s, in Regina Beach, SK, and St. Anne’s, in Chamberlain, SK, where he had served for 28, 27 and 25 years respectively. Previously, he was also the pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Edmonton, AB, for three years (1961-1964) and St. Francis of Assisi Parish, in Calgary, AB, for nine years (1964-1973). Lastly, one of Adam’s outstanding contributions was the 34 years he selflessly dedicated to administrating the Franciscan Missionary Union (1973-2007), a Franciscan fund-raising organization for missionary activities in underdeveloped countries, especially Peru. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, 1021 McCarthy Blvd. North, in Regina, SK, at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, November 6, 2013, with Fr. Dennis Vavrek, ofm, Provincial Minister for the Franciscans of Western Canada, presiding. Everyone is welcome to a reception in the parish hall immediately following the Mass. A Prayer Service and interment will be held on Friday, November 8, 2013, 10:30 a.m. at Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre, in Cochrane, AB. If friends and family so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Franciscan Missionary Union or to St. Michael’s Retreat & Ministries Inc., P.O. Box 220, Lumsden, SK, S0G 3C0.
Fr. Barthole Charbonneau, OFM, a professed Franciscan Friar for 70 years and a priest for 63 years, died on Wednesday, October 30, 2013, at Dove Home, in Regina, SK. He was 90 years old. The last sibling in a large family, Barthole was predeceased by five brothers (Maurice, Gerard, Norbert, Robert, Theodore) and two sisters (Stella and Lorraine). He was born on July 29, 1923, in Sainte-Rose-du-Lac, Manitoba, to Ovide and Marie (Payette) Charbonneau, and was given the baptismal names “Joseph Louis Leonel.” He answered to the name “Leonel” until he received the religious name, “Barthole,” when he joined the Franciscan Friars. Barthole entered the Franciscan Order in 1942, and lived in Sherbrooke and Montreal, QC, during his time in Franciscan formation. A year after his ordination to the priesthood Barthole went to the missions in Peru – in the Amazon jungle, and later, in the city of Moquegua – where he spent the next 57 years of his life. He returned to Canada in 2009 due to ill health, and retired to the Franciscan community at St. Michael’s Retreat, in Lumsden, SK. A year later, because of declining health, Barthole moved into Dove Home, where he received exceptional care until his death. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Retreat Centre, Lumsden, SK on Tuesday, November 5, 2013 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a lunch. A Prayer Service and burial of cremains will take place at Mount St. Francis Retreat, Cochrane, AB on Friday, November 8, 2013 at 10:30 a.m.
REV. JOEL S. RAMA, Died June 14, 2012, following a car/train collision on Sunday June 10, 2012 while travelling between Macoun and Estevan to say Mass. Rev. Rama was a Roman Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of Regina for the past five years, serving as Administrator of the parishes of St. John the Baptist, Estevan; St. Monica, Bienfait; St. Joseph, Midale and Our Lady 0f Immaculate Conception, Macoun and Parish moderator of the Lampman area which includes Lampman, Benson, Forget and Maryland.Born March 15, 1969 in Pandan, Catanduanes, Philippines. He was predeceased by his father Jose Rama and is survived by his mother Emerlina Sabeniano Rama and two siblings. Rev. Rama attended Holy Rosary Minor Seminary, Naga City, Phillippines and graduated with a degree in Philosophy and Theology. He was ordained October 25, 1995 by Most Rev. Manolo A. delos Santos, Bishop of Virac. After serving as an Associate pastor and Diocesan Youth Director for ten years in the Dicoese of Virac. He spent a sabbatical year in the Diocese of Victoria, B. C. and decided to move to Canada. Rev. Rama joined the Archdiocese of Regina on December 8, 2005 and assisted at Little Flower in Regina until July 2006. In August of that year he was appointed Administrator of the parishes of St. George, Assiniboia; St. Louis, Mossbank and St. Ignace, Willow Bunch. He moved to Estevan in August 2007.
Reverend Gordon S. Rushka passed away on Thursday, September 6, 2012 at the age of 80 years. Father Rushka spent most of his ordained life ministering in parish work starting in 1959 as assistant at St. Cecilia’s Parish, Regina. On April 23, 1961 he was assigned to St. Ann’s Parish in Kennedy, SK. He experienced the joy of being in the vineyard of the Lord for 41 years ( 7 different parishes including 9 associate parishes, plus Chaplaincy at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Estevan, SK.) Evening prayer service was said from Holy Rosary Cathedral, 2104 Garnet St., Regina, on Monday, September 10, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. The funeral mass was celebrated on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. from Our Lady of Victories Roman Catholic Church, Esterhazy, SK with interment following in the parish cemetery.
To watch Fr. Rushka’s interview about his vocation for the 2010 “Year of the Priest”, click here: https://youtu.be/hgHF0T0XHKA
Fr. Eugene Schaffer passed away peacefully on Monday, July 25, 2011. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Christina; brother David and sister Leona. Eugene is survived by two sisters, Dorothy (Gilles) Lesperance of Regina and Delores (Pat) Murphy of Saskatoon; three nieces, Shawna, Vanessa and Alynn; three nephews, Cory, Patrick and Tracey as well as eleven great nieces and nephews. Fr. Gene celebrated his 50th Anniversary of Ordination on June 5, 2011. Throughout the years he served at many rural parishes in the Archdiocese of Regina, as well as several parishes in the city.
Father Ducharme passed away on Thursday, June 17, 2010 at the age of 90 years. He was survived by his siblings Father Fernand, Conrad and Cecile Loiselle.
On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Rev. Louis Kubash, late of Regina, passed away at the age of 75 years. Predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Mary Kubash; two nephews and one grandniece. Father Louis is survived by brothers, Joe (Phillis) and Edmond (Yolande); sister Mary Jane (Henry) Belland; six nephews; five nieces; thirteen greatnephews and nieces; and one great-greatnephew. Father Louis was ordained at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Outlook, SK on June 5, 1958. He served as a priest in the following parishes: Kendal, Canadian Martyrs, Regina, Weyburn, Pangman, Manor, Moosomin, St. Joseph the Worker, Regina, Holy Child, Regina, Fort Qu’Appelle, Balcarres, Lebret, File Hills, Muscowpetung, Pasqua, Standing Buffalo, Carlyle, Arcola, Manor, Holy Rosary Cathedral, Regina, Our Lady of Assumption Co-Cathedral, Gravelbourg, LaFleche, Meyronne, Balgonie, Pilot Butte, and Kronau.
Father Bernie Ignatius late of Regina, entered eternal rest, Friday, February 8, 2008, two days before his 80th birthday, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Regina; five brothers, Dr. Michael, Frank, and Peter, Martin and John, who were killed in action in World War II; three sisters, Sr. Teresita Leboldus, Margaret McLellan, Kay Marklinger. Father Bernie is survived by his three sisters, Madeline Patterson of Saskatoon, Jean Lyons of Edmonton, and Sr. Anna Leboldus of Toronto, as well as nieces, nephews and his brother priests. Father Bernie was born in Vibank, Saskatchewan February 10, 1928. He worked for the Department of Education before entering St. Peter’s Seminary in London Ontario, receiving his Bachelor of Education and his Bachelor of Theology. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 26,1956 in Vibank. He served in many parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Regina, often using his artistic talents to renovate and redecorate the churches and rectories. Fr. Bernie was a talented musician who played the piano and organ, composed his own music and lyrics. He taught music in different High Schools throughout Regina. He had a great love for nature, entertaining and traveling. His travels took him to many places throughout the world, including the Holy Land, many European countries and Mexico. He loved the symphony, his cottage at the lake and the Roughriders. Fr Bernie was a 4th degree Knight of the Fr. Huggonard Assembly. Before his retirement he had held many positions of Spiritual Advisor both in the Knights of Columbus and The Catholic Women’s League. This humble, friendly man, with a great sense of humour, will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Reverend Father Herman Joseph Veltman passed away quietly with his sister at his side on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 four days short of his 89th birthday at William Albert Nursing Home in Emerald Park, Sask. Reverend Herman Joseph Veltman was born in Den Bosch, Holland on March 15, 1919, to Herman and Maria Veltman (Deckes), one of two sons to enter the priesthood. Father Herman came to Canada to finish his studies for the priesthood answering a call for religious persons and was ordained to the priesthood of the Roman Catholic Church on May 31, 1947 in Regina. The Bishop then sent him to Vibank as Curate and then as priest. He then served the church at Pangman, Lake Alma, Weyburn and then his first posting to Windthorst in 1960. After a successful fund raising drive he spearheaded the building of a new church. In 1969 the Bishop sent Father to the Langenburg parish where he repeated this accomplishment. Radville was Father’s next assignment where they renovated the church a great deal to make it more functional. In the early nineties he requested from the Bishop a transfer back to Windthorst to serve the people into his retirement. After a period of homesickness and adjustment he fell in love with the land and its people always making long lasting friends at each location. Father Veltman became a Canadian Citizen in the early nineteen fifties because of this attraction to to his new home. In 1963 his sister Josephine moved to Canada after the passing of their parents to serve as Father’s housekeeper and bring a little of Holland to him. This made him very happy and they have been together ever since, traveling back to Holland several times. Father Veltman is survived by his sister Josephine Veltman, another sister Mary Van Doremalen, brother-in-law Kees Elsendorn of Holland and several nieces and nephews and their families.
Reverend J. Lawrence Folk died Monday, March 19, 2007 at the Pasqua Hospital, Regina. Father Lawrence spent most of his ordained life, ministering in the Dioceses of Gravelbourg. He was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in his home parish of Saint Martin at Billimun on June 30, 1953. His first posting as pastor was to Rockglen in 1954. He subsequently served in Swift Current, Vanguard, Shaunavon, Maple Creek, Gull Lake and Saint Marys in Regina. Father Lawrence is survived by three sisters and one brother, as well as many nieces and nephews. His parents Jonas and Theresa Folk, two brothers and two sisters, four brothers-in-law and several nieces and nephews predeceased him.
FATHER JOSEPH SUROVIAK Father Joe passed away quietly and peacefully in the morning of November 2, 2007. Born July 20, 1925, in Indiana, USA, Joe was raised in Czechoslovakia. Having survived the Nazi occupation, he was forced to flee when the Communists took over. He got to refuge in Vienna in 1949, and there was offered a chance to come to Canada. He became a proud Canadian citizen. Joe began his study for the priesthood in St. Norbert, in 1953 and was ordained 49 years ago in Hamilton, Ontario. He began working as a parish priest in Holy Ghost Parish in Winnipeg (1959 – 1964), in Elphinstone, MB (three years), then Rose Valley, SK (two years). He joined the Archdiocese of Regina, and worked at Ituna (1969 – 1971), Carlyle (till 1981), Gerald (till 1985) and Whitewood (till retirement). When Joe retired 12 years ago he came to live in Winnipeg where he filled in for other priests until his health failed him. Joe was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Katherine (Mores) Suroviak, and three siblings, Anna, Bernardina and Jan. He is survived by his sister, Mary, in Slovakia; his cousin Mildred Klochan of Whiting, Indiana, and many nieces and nephews in Slovakia and the USA, as well as his Canada Family , Sheila and Bill Burland, Pat (Elaine), Doug (Cindy), Siobhan Burland Ross (Chris), Shannon Gunter-Smith (Brock), and his godson, David Joseph Burland. A special thank you must be extended to the nurses and doctors of the Health Sciences Centre those on GD 4, in the Emergency Ward and in the Renal Clinic. Their care and concern eased Joe’s last days. A special thank you to Dr. Lisa Miller and nurse Allison Lindsay for their kindness and compassion.
Most Reverend Peter Joseph Mallon D.D. Archbishop Emeritus of the Regina Roman Catholic Archdiocese died Saturday, February 3, 2007 at the Pasqua Hospital. He was the sixth Archbishop of Regina and Metropolitan of Saskatchewan. Archbishop Mallon was born December 5, 1929 in Prince Rupert B.C. He received most of his elementary education in Prince Rupert until his family moved to Vancouver in 1943. He completed his elementary education in Vancouver then attended Christ the King Seminary where he completed his high school and began his studies for the priesthood. He was ordained priest, May 27, 1956 at Vancouvers Holy Rosary Cathedral. His first appointment was served at the cathedral as assistant for 10 years then served as Rector from 1966 to 1982. He was appointed as Chancellor of the Vancouver Archdiocese in 1964, Director of Religious Education in 1971 and in 1977 was named a Prelate of Honour with the title of Monsignor. He was appointed Pastor of St. Anthonys Parish in West Vancouver until his appointment as Bishop of the Nelson, B.C. Diocese on February 2, 1990. He was installed as Regina Archbishop July 11, 1995. He is survived by two sisters, Mary K. Mallon of Edmonton and Ann Frietag (David) and nieces Kristin and Carla of Calgary, and the clergy and laity of the Regina Archdiocese. Thanks is expressed to the Health Care personnel at the Allan Blair Cancer Clinic, the Pasqua and General Hospitals for their professional and compassionate care.
Fr. John Melchior Riffel, also as Dr. John M. Riffel, DDS, passed away peacefully April 20, 2005, at the age of 93, in Regina, Saskatchewan (surrounded by his devoted family). He is survived by his sister Rose (Bradley), and his sisters-in-law Christina Riffel, Nora Riffel, Helen Riffel, and Eva Deis. Predeceased by his father Anton, in 1956, his mother Katherina in 1971, his brothers: Fr. Peter OMI, Paul, Alexander, Michael and Jacob; his sisters: Angela, Teresa, Frances and Sr. Elizabeth OUS., his brothers-in-law, Peter Bonogofski and Don Bradley. His beloved wife Regina Deis died in 1975, and his youngest son Gerard in 1985. He is survived by his children: John Anthony (Anita), Thomas (Linda), James (Lena), Virginia, Philip, Susan (Klein), Margaret, Marylou (Keith Clauson), and Lorna. He has 25 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. John was born southwest of Prelate, Sask. on October 30, 1911, the fifth of eleven children. He graduated from the University of Alberta from Dentistry in May, 1940. On November 26, 1940 he married Regina Deis from Vibank. Together they raised a family of five sons and five daughters. He joined the Knights of Columbus, Council #1247, on May 24, 1941 where he held most of the elected and appointed positions. In 1981, six years following the death of his wife Regina, he returned to school. Dr. Riffel was ordained to the Priesthood on June 30 1984. Since his ordination at age 72, Fr. Riffel has served at the Health Care Facilities in Regina. Until April 30, 2003, he served as Chaplain of Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home celebrating daily Mass and administering the Sacraments to the residents, their families, volunteers and many others. Dad had a great love for people and great zest for life. Dads family was his greatest joy. As the father of ten children he was known to say, “Theyre all irreplaceable and many loves have I. Dad loved his job as a Dentist, lived and loved the Knights of Columbus, and loved his Ministry, particularly at Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home. His dental career spanned 42 years; he was a Columbian for 60 years: he was a Priest for almost 21 years which adds up to more than his 93 years.
Suddenly on May 19, 2005 Fr. Isidore H. Gorski entered his eternal home. Born September 26, 1930 in Odessa Saskatchewan, Fr. Isidore dedicated his life to the service of all. Ordained to the Roman Catholic priesthood in 1954, he continued his theological studies at Gregorian University in Rome. Fr. Isidore returned to Canada where he is remembered by many parishes and communities for his services to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Regina and the province. He served many roles in his twenty-five years at Campion College and retired as Academic Dean in 1995. He will be sadly missed by his sister Eva (John Muhr), brother Joe, many cousins, nieces and nephews, the Haddad family and the many whose lives he touched and enriched through his life and service.
