Funeral Notices

Garden of Peace Cemetery in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil 

Sacred Heart of Jesus Fraternity 

Viamão, RS Brazil 

Birthday/Feastday: December 16 

Communion with all our sisters reaches beyond this life; 

we remember and continue to pray for them after their deaths 

In particular, we remember the anniversary of their entrance into eternal life 

We also rely on their prayerful intercession for us before God. 

 (BFS Dir #33) 

Life is a time of waiting for the great encounter with God. 

Sister Theresinha Montezuma was born in Camocim, in the state of Ceará, on December 16, 1926. She was the daughter of Adroaldo Montezuma de Carvalho and Maria do Carmo Freire de Carvalho. Motivated by her brother, Father Marconi Montezuma, she entered the Congregation of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters as a Postulant on January 8, 1955, and completed her Postulancy and Novitiate in Camaquã, RS. She lived there from 1955 to 1968 and it was here that she was Secretary of the St. John the Baptist School and Minister for the Juvenists. From 1968 to June 1974, she was the Provincial Treasurer. In the second semester of 1974, she helped out in St. Joseph School in Barra do Ribeiro, RS. From 1975 to 1982, she was the Secretary, Accountant, and Treasurer of Our Lady of Hope School in Curitiba, Paraná. In 1983, she was the Director of the St. Bernardine Retreat House in Viamão, RS. Sister did the CEFEPAL Course in 1984 and from 1985 to 1986, she was the Local Minister and Treasurer of the Maria Imaculada Fraternity. She returned to the Our Lady of Hope Fraternity in Curitiba, where she was Secretary in the Our Lady of Hope School. In 1999 Sister returned to the St. Bernardine Fraternity in Viamão, where she remained until 2001 as Director of the Retreat House as well as performed other responsibilities. From June of 2001 until 2002, she was in the St. Agnes Fraternity where she performed various responsibilities. From 2003 to 2007, Sister lived in the Provincial House, where she assisted in the Provincial Secretary´s office and in the library. In 2008, she assisted in the Mission Department. In 2009, she was transferred to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Fraternity in Viamão, where she helped in various areas and took care of her fragile health. She remained there until her death. 

Sister Theresinha Montezuma was a happy and playful person. She certainly will be missed by us, but it is a nostalgia full of the hope and conviction that she is with God, receiving her reward for all that she worked for throughout her life. Sister was dedicated to the service to which the Congregation called her. May she rest in the great and loving heart of God. 

                                                                Original Text: Sister Rita Mafalda Magalhães 

                                                                Translated by: Sister Brigid Scott 

In love and compassion we

commend to God our dear

In love and compassion we

commend to God our dear

who entered eternal life 

in the 72nd year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 92 . 

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA 

St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA 

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA 

Feastday: August 26

Elizabeth “Ela” Baranek 

6116 Palomino Cir 

Bradenton FL 34201-2384 

Nephew: 

CHESTER MISIURKA 

377 GRENVILLE ST 

BRIDGETOWN NS BOS-ICO 

CANADA 

IRENE KOMOROWSKI 

RONOESVALLES AVE #709 

TORONTO ON 3A7-MGR 

CANADA 

Sister Mercita Domina 

April 5, 2019

Good morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Mercita Domina and we thank you for your presence here with us today. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend our deepest sympathy to Sister Domina’s niece Elizabeth, and her cousins in Canada: Chester and Irene, as well as her many dear friends in other parts of the United States. As we gather to celebrate her life and her future Resurrection in the Lord, we keep her in our fervent prayers.

Sister Domina, Alfreda Oszmianska, was one of 5 children born in Poland in 1926, to Lawrence and Rosalie Oszmianska. Her peaceful childhood was abruptly shattered in 1939 with the outbreak of WWII and the invasion of Poland by Russia. Sister Domina and her family were exiled to Siberia where they lived in complete fear and poverty for two years. At the end of the war and amnesty between the U.S., Russia and England, she and her displaced family were settled in India until, by God’s Providence, Sister Domina’s life took another dramatic turn.

In 1947, a Polish priest was overseeing a large group of orphans who were living in a refugee camp in India. He was concerned that they would soon be repatriated to Communist Poland, and he was actively seeking alternatives. He received a message from his brother in the U.S., also a priest, who had been communicating with Sister Zygmunta, and learned that her religious congregation was willing to sponsor 50 young women displaced from Poland. They would be welcomed to Reading, could continue their education, and if they felt called by God, would be accepted into the Formation program to join the community as vowed women religious. Sister Domina was among the group who recognized God’s call, and in March 1947, she entered the Novitiate of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters at Mount Alvernia.

Sister Domina was sent to study radiology at St. Bernard’s Hospital in Chicago, IL, and she also completed an internship at Bon Secours Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland in 1950. She received her certification as an X-ray technician in 1955. For the next 32 years, Sister Domina served in hospital ministry at our community sponsored hospitals in Hoven and Watertown, South Dakota; Newport News Virginia and Hazleton and Chester Pennsylvania. She also served on the staff at Villa Maria Retreat House in Stamford, Connecticut, and Sacred Heart Convent in Reading, Pennsylvania before her retirement, becoming a resident at St. Joseph Villa in 2013.

In spite of her early years that were marked by trauma, war and suffering, Sister Domina never lost her vivacious personality. She was full of life, an entertainer and catalyst for lifting the spirits of others, a personality that would not be suppressed. She never let circumstances or hardships overwhelm her or squelch her spirit of joy. She knew first-hand the rigors of deprivation, but her heart led her in another direction – the path of charity, friendship, and generosity. She gave unconditionally to the poor and needy wherever she lived, and to her many friends with whom she worked. She was thoughtful and kind, and when she worked at the hospital in Newport News, VA, she and her companion Sister Claudine would frequently host a breakfast for friends, volunteers, or staff in their little dining room, which became a faith-sharing event, a time to share prayer, stories and break bread to nourish body and soul. 

This is how we will remember Sister Domina, a force among us for good, a loving and caring friend, a woman of faith and conviction. She joins our Bernardine community now in eternity, singing with all her heart and following the Lamb of God, her Spouse and Savior Jesus. May she rest in God’s embrace for all eternity.

In love and compassion we

commend to God our dear

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

who entered eternal life 

in the 64th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 82.

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Feastday: September 12

Brothers:

Michael Keller 

7591 Colony Dr 

Algonac MI 48001-4135 

William Keller 

6427 E. Raftriver St 

Mesa AZ 85215-9767 

James Keller 

748 Water Oak Dr 

Plano TX 75025-3208 

Daniel Keller 

3 Chelsea Pt 

Dana Point, CA 92629-2750 

Sister: 

Barbara Ann Eissfeldt 

4148 One Place Ln 

Flower Mound TX 75028-1277 

We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Maria Christine Keller. Thank you for your presence here with us today as we gather to commend her soul to God, to honor her memory, and to celebrate her entrance into eternal life. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, our Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend our deepest sympathy to you her family members and friends and to all who are unable physically to be present with us today because of distance.

On November 29, 1936, Mary Louise Keller was the first-born into the loving family of Robert and Alice Keller. She has 4 surviving brothers: Michael, William, James and David and 1 sister, Barbara, and naturally a large extended family.

Sister was a student of St. Clement Parish School in Dearborn, Michigan and, after high school graduation in 1953, she entered the Aspirancy of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. As she continued her educational endeavors, Sister Maria Christine earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Madonna College in Livonia, Michigan and a Master of Arts in Administration from Eastern Michigan University.

Sister Maria Christine was missioned throughout Pennsylvania, Michigan and Texas. She served in the educational field for 32 years as an elementary school teacher and principal. She also served in Congregational Leadership as Province Minister and as Administrator and Local Minister. Her last assignment was at Mary’s Manor in Farmington Hills, Michigan where she became a resident in 2015. Eventually in 2017, failing health brought her here to Saint Joseph Villa where she was reunited with several of her friends from Michigan.

Chris, as she was affectionately called, loved life and would find any reason for a celebration. When she was my Province Minister back in the late 1990s and there would be a need for us to meet for one reason or another, we would always find ourselves at Pizza Hut with a medium pan pizza and diet Pepsi in hand to conduct our business. Chris was very devoted to her sisters especially those in Michigan where she spent most of her years and she was well respected. When there was work to be done, she was right there alongside of you in the midst of the hustle and bustle with her sleeves rolled up pitching in and lending a hand.

During these past months, as her health deteriorated, Sister Maria Christine could still be found with a smile on her face and a kind word of “Thank You” to her dear devoted friend, Sister Dorothy Marie Poremba, and the staff at dialysis, at the hospital, and at St. Joseph Villa.

On the 16 th day of January, Sister heard the beckoning call of her Spouse: “Well done, good and faithful Servant, come enjoy the rewards of eternal life”. She slipped peacefully into the embrace of our good and loving God at the age of 82 in the 64 th year of her covenant.

Today, my friend, we send you on your way with hearts full of gratitude and love. We pray:

“May the road to heaven rise up to meet you.

May the songs of angels fill your ears.

May the shine of God’s radiance fall warm upon your face,

May prayers of intercession fall from your lips upon His ears and until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA

Feastday: January 11

Nieces: 

Maùgorzata (“Gosia”) Syberyjska 

Traugutta 75 

71-300 Szczecin 

POLAND 

Barbara Taylor 

51 Denmans Lane 

Lindfield Hayward Heath 

West Sussex 

RH16 2JN 

ENGLAND 

Nephews: 

Richard & Ann Syberyjski 

Orkestervâgen 18 

5-41-57 Skövde 

SWEDEN 

Julian & Christine Doberski 

15 Stoke Close 

Longstanton 

Cambridge 

CB24-3FG 

ENGLAND 

We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Nora Marie and thank you for your presence here with us today as we gather to commend her soul to God, to honor her memory, and to celebrate her entrance into eternal life. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, our Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend our deepest sympathy to her nieces and nephews and friends who are unable to be physically present with us today because of distance. 

Sister Nora Marie Syberyjska, formerly Sister Mercita Consolatia, was born on March 21, 1926 to the late Casper and Anna Syberyjski in Kamien , Poland. She was baptized and given the name Honorata and was one of three children. Both her brother and her sister have also preceded her in death.

Sister Nora Marie was home schooled up to the second grade when she entered formal school in Lesniowka, Poland in 1933. She was a bright student taking the entrance exam for high school in 1939 at which time the war broke out between the Soviet Union and Germany. During this time her father was killed and the family was arrested and exiled to Tiogra in Siberia. She remained there until amnesty was announced in 1941 and then she traveled through the Ural Mountains to reside in Iran where she studied hard to make up for lost time in the Soviet Union.

In 1944 Sister Nora Marie arrived at Valivade , India where she completed her last month of high school and entered college. During this time she organized a sodality group with the help of Father Przybysz and joined the Girl Scouts. Sister wrote that it was at this time that her vocation was nurtured. She applied to a Salesian Missionary Congregation in India but was advised to wait and to enroll into a group going the United States of America. She did and again found herself travelling through Singapore, Shanghai and Honolulu finally reaching San Francisco on February 27, 1947. She crossed the States arriving in Stamford, Connecticut in on March 1 st and entering the Postulancy on March 7 th in Reading, Pennsylvania the same year during which she entered the Novitiate and received the name Mercita Consolatia which was changed to Nora Marie in 1970.

In the educational system in the United States, Sister earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from College Misericordia, Dallas, Pennsylvania and a Master of Arts in Art from Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan. She served her ministry in California, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Liberia, West Africa as an Elementary teacher, superior, Christian service coordinator, Christian service director and receptionist.

I came to know Sister Nora Marie when she was missioned here at the Motherhouse in 2008 when she was busy working on publishing her manuscript, Through The Eyes Of A Teenager: My World War II Journey , which was Published December 31st 2012. Though she was exiled into the harsh and unimaginable conditions in frigid and intolerable Siberia, where thousands perished, Sister never spoke bitterly of her experience, rather she spoke of the human kindness and empathy and hope which surpassed the horror of her youth.

In our St. Joseph Villa where she retired as a resident in 2015, Sister Nora could be seen walking in the courtyard dancing and doing her exercises and praising God for the beauty of nature. She said that the courtyard there reminded her of a large garden behind her home in Poland which had a large hazelnut grove which she made her private church where she frequently took her problems to Jesus and Mary. Her artistic talents produced several paintings of God’s beauty on canvas until her eyesight failed and prevented her from painting which was one of her great passions.

At the age of 92 in the 72 year of her covenant with the Lord, Sister heard the call to come home on Christmas evening. I am certain that her eyes were cleared and that she is singing with all the choirs of angels.

Sister Nora Marie, You were a faithful servant reflecting God’s love and will be dearly missed. May you now rest in peace in the loving embrace of our good and gracious God!

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Feastday: May 31

Sister:

Theresa Kross 

78 Oak St 

Hudson PA 18705-3425 

Niece:

Kimberly Cruse 

[No address provided] 

Cousin:

Helen Block 

118 Haverford Dr 

Wilkes-Barre PA 18702 

God child:

Kristen Price 

116 Center St 

Pittston PA 18640-2612 

Good morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Mary Magnifica Zdancewicz. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend deepest sympathy and loving support to Sister Magnifica’s family: her sister Theresa, her niece Kimberly, her cousin Helen and her Godchild Kristen We thank you for your presence here today and we commend the soul of our dear Sister to your prayers.

Sister Mary Magnifica, Irene Zdancewicz, was born in Hudson PA on February 24, 1925, one of three daughters born to Frank and Louise Zdancewicz, and received her early education with the Bernardine Sisters at St. Joseph School in Hudson. After completing her education at Mount Alvernia High School in Reading, she entered the congregation in 1943 and served as an elementary school teacher for 42 years in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C.

Sister Magnifica earned a Bachelor of Science degree in art from Marywood College in Scranton, PA and a Master of Arts in Art Education from New York University in New York.

As an educator, she specialized in teaching art at all levels: elementary, secondary and college. In 1987, she was assigned to Alvernia College where she chaired the Art department, gave private studio lessons, taught art and ceramics classes, and organized art exhibits bi-annually for the college students. She encouraged her students to be creative in every art form, and they often accompanied her to local schools when she was called on to judge art contests, helping them see the imagination alive within the elementary artist, and to recognize emerging youthful talent, not unlike her own methodology as an art teacher. After her retirement from teaching, Sister Magnifica, while living in Hudson, was a home companion to her lifelong friend, Rita, Sister Ermelline Wroble’s sister. In 2013, when her health began to fail, she returned to Reading where she resided in St. Joseph Villa until her death on December 11, 2018.

Sister loved her family dearly, and she cherished the opportunities to spend vacations with them. At the wake service yesterday afternoon, they shared many beautiful and tender memories of Sister Magnifica, and how she brought them joy, strengthened their faith, and helped them through trying moments in their life. As with many Polish families of her generation, Sister Magnifica’s love for Mary, the Mother of Jesus, was very special in her life, and in small but meaningful ways, she was able to communicate this foundational devotion to the immediate and extended family members in ways that will never be forgotten. They were so proud of her, one of their own, living as a consecrated religious among the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. For her part, she managed to maintain a low profile among us with that endearing secret smile, always ready to share her gifts and talents so generously. We will remember her fondly, for she walked among us with serenity and joy, a humble gifted woman, always giving total credit to God, the original divine Creator of all. May she enjoy eternal peace in God’s presence for her life of service and sacrifice, and let us keep her in our heartfelt prayers, asking her intercession for our needs as we continue our journey home.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Anna Dei Gloria Radzai 

who entered eternal life 

in the 79th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 96 . 

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA

Feastday: July 15

Niece: 

Frances Grutza 

234 Ringneck Dr 

Harrisburg, PA 17112-1467 

717.329.6123 (Use first) 

Grand Niece: 

Anne Davis

Grand Nephews: 

Ron and Tom Grutza 

 

Good morning. In the name of all the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, we welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Mary Bonaventa.

We thank you for your presence with us today as we gather to commend her soul to God, to honor her memory, and to celebrate her entrance into eternal life.

On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, our Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend our deepest sympathy to Sister Bonaventa’s family and friends, especially to her nieces and nephews, and her grand nieces and nephews, as well as all of our guests who join us here today.

Anna Dei Gloria Radzai was born into the loving family of Anthony and Pauline Radzai on April 1, 1922, in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania. She had three brothers and six sisters, all of whom have preceded her in death.

Anna was educated in St. Stanislaus Parish Elementary School in Shenandoah, and after eighth grade she attended the Bernardine Sisters’ Aspirancy. She then preceded to enter the Postulancy in 1939. Following her years of initial formation, she professed her perpetual vows on August 12, 1946.

Sister Bonaventa was a diligent student and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Villanova University and a Master of Education from Duquesne University. She spent 38 years in the field of education as teacher, principal and Supervisor. She also served God and her sisters as Superior, as a Province Councilor and as Provincial Superior for 8 years in what was known as Sacred Heart Province.

Sister Bonaventa was also an accomplished organist and served as such in several parishes.

In 1985 she changed hats and became Retreat coordinator and administrator at the Villa of Our Lady Retreat House in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania where she ministered for 29 years. She lovingly referred to the retreat house as God’s Hotel.

Throughout her years of ministry in Pennsylvania, Sister touched many lives as she ministered in Altoona, Philadelphia, Chester, Boswell, Summit Hill, Lansford, Mahanoy City, Nicetown, Butler, Ephrata, Mount Pocono and Reading.

As a consecrated woman religious, Sister was well known for her generosity, her spirit of joy, her sense of humor, and her Franciscan Hospitality.

Sister Bonaventa was a woman who was all heart. One never visited the retreat house and left empty handed.

She had a deep respect for the clergy. The priests loved visiting the retreat house in Mount Pocono where they were treated royally.

In 2014, due to declining health, Sister Bonaventa became a resident of St. Joseph Villa in Reading, Pennsylvania where Sister spent the last 4 years of her earthly life. On November 11, 2018, at the age of 96 and in the 79 th year of her religious life, God called her home.

And now, as she joins her family and many friends in the eternal city of God, we here on earth can almost hear the joyful welcome: Well done good and faithful servant! Now share in the banquet of the Lord, and rest in the embrace of our loving God for all eternity.

Sister Bonaventa, may you rest in peace.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

 who entered eternal life 

Tuesday, November 6, 2018, at 11:45 a.m. [Brazil time] 

In the 69th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 88.

Wednesday, November 7, 2018, prior to Mass 

Chapel of the Garden of Peace Cemetery in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

Chapel of the Garden of Peace Cemetery in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

Garden of Peace Cemetery in porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

Sacred Heart of Jesus Fraternity 

Viamão, RS Brazil

Birthday/Feastday: March 5 

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Mary Nowosielski 

  

who entered eternal life 

in the 73rd year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 92 . 

  

Viewing 

Sunday, November 4, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. 

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA 

Monday, November 5, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. 

St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA 

  

Place of Death 

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA

Feastday: November 13

Sister:

Mrs. Alice Clarke 

153 Spring Garden St 

Riverside NJ 08075-3626 

  Nieces:

The Ryan Family 

706 5 th St 

Riverside NJ 08075-1166 

Evelyn Espenchied 

2 Frederick Ave 

Delran, NJ 08075-1008 

  Cousins: 

Mrs. Jean Henning 

6 Burke St 

Riverside NJ 08075-3310 

 Mr. Eugene Wisniewski 

2002 Steuben Rd 

Reading, PA 19602-1519 

 

Good morning.

We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Mary Cabrini, and thank you for your presence here with us today. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend our deepest sympathy to her sister Alice and her many nieces and cousins, as we gather to celebrate her life and her future Resurrection in the Lord.

Sister Cabrini, Mary Nowosielski, was born in Riverside, NJ, on March 30, 1926, one of ten children in the family of Alexander and Stella Nowosielski. She was baptized in St. Casimir’s Church and attended St. Casimir’s elementary school in Riverside, and followed her dream to become a Bernardine Franciscan sister when she began her high school at Mt. Alvernia in Reading. She entered the postulancy in 1945, and pronounced her final vows on August 12, 1952.

Sister Cabrini attended Villanova University to prepare for her ministry in education, earning her undergraduate degree in 1960 and her Master ’s degree in 1982. Her first assignment was serving at Little Flower Institute in Hyde Park, MA as a domestic sister. Six years later, Sister Cabrini continued her work with children as an elementary school teacher, from kindergarten to grade 6, for the next 52 years of her active ministry. Her assignments included schools in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, DC and Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. She was like a grandmother to her students, drawing them with kindness and gentleness to her heart. With her simple, childlike personality, she was able to communicate with them on the level of academic studies as well as with the language of love. The children found her irresistible.

Sister Cabrini’s greatest joy was to prepare school children and CCD students for the reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. Her outstanding traits, for which she is universally remembered by her sisters in the congregation, were her peaceful demeanor, her simplicity, her gentle spirit, and her quiet manner of life. She spoke very little, but her sweet smile and serene personality were the gifts we cherished in this humble, holy woman. In recording her thoughts for her memorial, she wrote: I had great trust in God and His Blessed Mother and was ever mindful of the Holy Spirit, my Guardian Angel, and the Saints. I prayed daily for the Holy Souls in Purgatory and all the people in the world.

Sister Cabrini retired to St. Joseph Villa in 2013, ending her life as she lived it: a quiet soul intent on serving God in the simple daily routine of her consecrated life. She passed away peacefully on November 1, the Feast of All Saints, and I am sure every one of them, including all the souls she ransomed from Purgatory, greeted her with joy and jubilation. Sister Cabrini exemplified the model of a hidden life, unknown to most of us on earth, but surely receiving a warm welcome home by her many friends in heaven. Dear Sister, may God give you eternal rest and the beautiful crown of glory forever, which you so richly deserve.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

who entered eternal life 

in the 69th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 86.

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA 

Good Shepherd Long Term Acute Care Facility 

Bethlehem, PA 

Feastday: March 25 

Brothers: 

Raymond and Margaret (Meg) Pruss 

540 Beaver Rd 

Julian PA 16844-8626 

Lawrence and Janice (Jan) Pruss 

4478 Eden Rd 

Tyrone PA 16686-3101 

Theodore and Arlene Pruss 

377 Farmstead Ln 

State College PA 16803-2517 

Philip and Jean Pruss 

169 Goose Pond Rd 

Lake Ariel, PA 18436-5713 

Sisters: 

Loretta Pruss 

Leland, NC 

Florence Pruss 

716 Tussey Ln 

State College PA 16801-7826 

(no phone number given)

Good morning.

We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Paraclete Pruss, and thank you for your presence with us today. On behalf of Sister Maralisa, congregational minister, and all the Bernardine Franciscan sisters, I extend heartfelt sympathy to all the family members and friends of Sister Paraclete, especially those with us today.

Sister Paraclete was born Wanda Pruss on July 3, 1932, one of ten children born to Stanley Pruss and Estelle Zomro, in Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania. After completing her elementary education, she entered the aspirancy of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in Reading, Pennsylvania, and after high school, she became a postulant. Following her novitiate, she professed her first vows as a Bernardine Sister on August 12, 1951.

In 1961, Sister Paraclete graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, and in 1970, she was awarded an M.S. in Guidance and Counseling from Fairfield University in Connecticut. For 15 years while she pursued her degrees in higher education, Sister Paraclete taught in parochial elementary schools, grades 4 to 8, in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Michigan and Texas.

For many years, Sister Paraclete was a coordinator of Religious Education, and was also involved in diocesan projects, service to the poor, and pastoral ministry. She had many gifts which she shared with others, and was known for her sincerity, compassion and persistence. Her work with adult catechesis often resulted in couples’ reconciliation, validation of marriages, and family members returning to their faith.

In 1990, Sister Paraclete returned to Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania to assist her elderly mother, and following her death she continued working as a pastoral and administrative assistant at St. Joseph’s parish in Scranton, Pennsylvania. When her health began to weaken, she became a resident at Holy Rosary Convent in Duryea, and retired in 2012 to Sacred Heart Convent in Reading, and then to St. Joseph Villa, until her death in 2018.

In her personal life, Sister Paraclete was rather independent. She was very intelligent, always aware of issues of the day, and deeply committed to her Catholic faith. When Saturday morning Mass was difficult to schedule because of the increasing demands on diocesan clergy, she never failed to find willing companions who would drive with her to a local parish in the city – no matter the season, the weather, or her own difficulty in walking.

Just over one month ago, Sister Paraclete suffered a fall that began a series of physical failures leading to her death. I visited her a few days after she was admitted to the ICU in the Reading Hospital, but I could see that she fully expected to heal quickly and return home. We prayed together, and she received her final Holy Eucharist. Two days later, when I returned for another visit, she seemed confused and no longer able to speak. My final visit was one week before her death at the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation facility in Bethlehem PA. She appeared to be unconscious, but there was a trace of a smile and she seemed to be listening to a Franciscan Friar speaking about God’s mercy on the EWTN channel, with the speaker propped on the pillow by her ear. Her nurse told me that she had been anointed and received the Sacrament of the Sick the previous evening. Let us remember her, and all our departed sisters, as we approach the month of November and the Feast of the Holy Souls. They have gone before us, and now intercede for us before the throne of God. We join our prayers with theirs, and we pray for one another, companions on this journey to eternal life.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Hedwig Ladzinski

who entered eternal life 

in the 78 th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 96 .

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA 

after 2:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. - Transportation of Body and Recitation of Rosary 

11:00 a.m. - Mass of Christian Burial 

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

  Communion with all our sisters reaches beyond this life; 

Brother: 

Rev. Msgr. Casimir Ladzinski 

Villa Vianney 

 2301 Lawrenceville Rd 

Lawrenceville NJ 08648-2025 

Niece: 

Sandy Craft 

328 W 15 th St 

Ship Bottom NJ 08008-4453 

Nephew: 

Joseph Calhoun 

124 Suncrest Rd 

Lancaster PA 17601-4835 

Good Morning. On behalf of Sister Marilisa and all Bernardine Franciscan sisters, we welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial of our Sister Julia Ladzinski, and extend our deepest sympathy to her brother, Rev. Msgr Casimir Ladzinski, her Niece, Sandy Craft, and her nephew, Joseph Calhoun, along with her other extended family members and friends who are here with us today.

Sister Julia Ladzinski was born on September 2, 1922, in Cambridge, New Jersey to the late Anthony and Alice Ladzinski. She was the eldest of three daughters and two sons. Sister was baptized Hedwig Ladzinski in St. Casimir Church in Riverside, New Jersey and attended St Casimir’s Parish School where she was taught by the Bernardine Sisters throughout her elementary years. Following the completion of 8 th Grade, she came to Alvernia High School here in Reading after which she entered the Postulancy of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters on August 29, 1940. Sister attributed her vocation to Sister Michael, who was her 6 th grade teacher. Before her 8 th grade graduation, Hedwig mentioned to her parents that she wanted to become a Sister. In her autobiography, Sister Julia wrote that her mother was very happy; however, her father was not, but over the years, the loving and caring members of the convents in which she lived eventually won him over.

Following her years of initial formation, Sister Julia went on to continue her education and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Villanova University. She also received credits in administration at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey.

Throughout her years, Sister Julia was in ministry in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania as an Elementary Teacher for the primary grades, Principal, Director of Religious Education and a Pastoral Care Giver. She also served her sisters in the capacity of local minister.

Sister Julia frequently spoke of her ministry at St. John Vianney School in Colonia, NJ. where she was missioned in 1986. It was a big school, a three story building housing three grades of each level with an enrollment of more than a thousand students from Kindergarten to Eighth Grade. And if that wasn’t enough she added a Pre-School program with 200 little ones. She always said being principal was a big challenge and with the grace of God she accomplished her tasks. In 1994 she retired for the first time and remained as a substitute teacher. Lo and behold, one of her former pastors got wind of her retirement and asked for her to come back to Manville, NJ and serve as a Pastoral Assistant. There she worked as a DRE and helped in the parish office. Finally after 6 years she decided to retire again and relocated to her home parish in Riverside, NJ. After eight years there, Sister Julia came to our St. Joseph Villa here in Reading where she really retired and resided for the past 10 years.

          This is where I met Sister Julia. I had made her acquaintance when she would come into Reading for meetings, but didn’t really get to know her until she came to reside in St. Joseph Villa. It seemed we would always meet in the foyer when she was on her way to the beauticians to get her hair styled. I believe she was the happiest person on earth the day that we dedicated Noreen’s Beauty Boutique in the Villa because it was becoming more difficult for her to get in and out of the car to make the long trek outside to the shop. I remember when one of my good friends passed away in the Villa, Sr Julia came to me and said you lost a good friend but if you want, I can be your friend. While I was recouperating there following surgery, she came to my room in the afternoons and evenings and we chatted away.

          Sister Julia was small in stature but mighty. She was a hard worker and always working. Many of the sisters who lived with her said that she wouldn’t ask you to do anything that she wouldn’t do herself. She was always there right beside you with her sleeves rolled up pitching in. How coincidental it was that she passed away on Labor Day.

          We continue to hold her in prayer as she joins her parents, many relatives and many friends in her heavenly home. Sister Julia, today we send you off with the words of Scripture: Well done good and faithful servant! You have run and have won the race. Now share the banquet of the Lord, and take your rightful place at the head of the table, which has been prepared for you for all of eternity. Thank you for the witness of your good and dedicated life. You were a faithful servant reflecting God’s love and will be dearly missed. May you now rest in peace in the loving embrace of our Good and Gracious God!

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Bernadine C. Rusin

who entered eternal life 

in the 69th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 87 .

St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA

Feastday: November 30

Sister-in-law: 

Mrs. Eleanor Rusin 

2345 Raleigh Dr 

Lancaster PA 17601-2980 

Nieces: 

Joanne Grudzinski 

1 Kreider Ave 

Lancaster PA 17601-3609 

Catherine Ann (“Cathy”) McFarland 

124 Market St 

Pittston PA 18640-2576 

Nephews: 

Gregory (“Greg”) Rusin 

2 Ward Witty Dr 

Montville NJ 07045-9752 

Richard W. Rusin 

22 Lincoln Gdns Apt A 

Lake Hiawatha NJ 07034-2406 

[No phone number given]

Good Morning. On behalf of Sister Marilisa and all Bernardine Franciscan sisters, we welcome everyone to the funeral of Sister Mary Andreen, Bernadine Rusin, and extend our deepest sympathy to her nieces Joanne and Cathy, her nephews Greg and Richard, and her sister in law Eleanor, along with her extended family members, cousins and friends who are here with us today.

Sister Andreen was born in 1930 to Stanislaus and Catherine Rusin, and baptized Bernadine in St. Joseph Parish, Port Griffith/Pittston, Pennsylvania. She entered the Bernardine Franciscan congregation after high school, and was accepted into the novitiate in 1949. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Villanova University, and a Master of Arts in Education from Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles, California. Her first 12 years of ministry were spent teaching first grade in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan and California, and later an assignment in Texas.

However, Sister Andreen’s passion and true calling was to be an international missionary, and she was a founding pioneer in opening our mission in Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. With the Vincentian priests, she laid a foundation for education, health care, and adult vocational training that will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year. She devoted the final 30 years of her life to her beloved Sacred Heart School in Rio Piedras where she was a teacher, principal and administrator. Her impact on this academic community spanned several generations, setting standards that continue to endure, and creating a culture of excellence that today is widely respected in both private and public education in Puerto Rico. She knew how to motivate children to excel, and she brought out the best in their teachers whom she mentored. Her zeal, energy, and stamina seemed endless. Always, her presence was larger than life, and the impact she had on these communities is remarkable and memorable.

Along with her uncompromising standards, Sister Andreen was deeply compassionate. She loved the poor and she had a huge heart for those who suffered, particularly after the hurricane that devastated the island last year. Her fundraising was relentless and her charity extended to everyone. Although awarded and recognized for impressive accomplishments in the school and parish, she was most proud of the children she shepherded through the decades, thrilled by their achievements, humbled by their gratitude. She loved competition, especially when it called out the best in the students both academically, spiritually, and personally. She loved sports, and delighted the parish sports fans by participating in the superbowl lottery ever year. The morning after the game, Sister Andreen never failed to take the winners to breakfast at the local pancake house – much to their joy and delight!

Sister Andreen’s ministry in every mission she served, but especially in Puerto Rico, was an unforgettable blessing. She lived her commitment with fidelity, fraternal love, and a spirit of joy in being called to the consecrated life as a Bernardine Franciscan Sister. It was very difficult to see her rapid decline after failing health called her home to Reading. For someone who was so invested in the lives of others, she found it so difficult to face her own mortality that we all share. We saw how heroically she grappled with depression, grief, and surrender in these last few months, but she remained to the end, the woman we always knew: strong, independent, generous, simple, fiercely and totally committed to Jesus Christ, the Church, and the people of God. We grieve her passing, but we know that her presence made a difference in the lives of those she knew and served. May she now experience the fruit of her labors and the fullness of God’s mercy and love in hearing these words: well done, good and faithful servant; come now and enjoy the kingdom that has been prepared for you for all eternity.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Joan Irene Klukaszewski

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Sister:

Dolores Bombalski 

441 Pershing Dr Apt 201 

New Kensington PA 15068-5374 

Nieces:

Susan Kiffer 

240 Arner Rd 

Freeport PA 16229-1925 

Joan I. Peconi 

216 Eastern Dr 

Lower Burrell PA 15068-3236 

Mary Moore 

592 Fosters Grove Loop 

Ovieda FL 32765-7437 

 

Good morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Joan Irene and we thank you for your presence with us today as we gather to celebrate her life as a consecrated religious and daughter of the Church. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, Congregational Minister, and all our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, I extend deepest sympathy to all her family, especially her sister Dolores, her nieces Susan, Mary and Joan, her nephews Craig, Tommie and Earl, her many great nieces and nephews as well as parish guests from Langhorne and Morrisville who join us here today.

Sister Joan Irene Klukaszewski was the youngest of three children born to Joseph and Frances Klukaszewski. She had two aunts in the congregation, her father’s sisters, Ss. Joachim and Cornelia. Growing up in Natrona, Pennsylvania, she attended St. Ladislaus School staffed by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. After completing the 8th grade, the sisters encouraged her to attend Mount Alvernia High School in Reading, and following graduation, she entered the Postulancy in 1953. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Villanova University, a Master’s degree in Education from Scranton University, and a Principal’s Certification from Immaculata University. During her 57 years of active ministry, she served as a teacher, principal, and Local Minister in schools throughout Pennsylvania. She retired in 2014 but continued to offer a ministry of presence and prayer in local parishes located in the area of Langhorne, PA near Philadelphia.

From her earliest years, Sister Joan Irene was a dynamic leader in the field of education. Under Sister Lauretta, congregational school supervisor, she presented model-teacher demonstrations in Math and Art for sisters and lay teachers at our elementary schools in eastern Pennsylvania. She introduced new and creative teaching and learning methods into the schools such as computer bar-coding library books before this became the trend; she was always a visionary administrator. She held positions in schools as both teacher and principal, often both at the same time, and during her tenure in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, she led the school through two successful Middle States evaluations. In 2008 as principal of St. John the Evangelist School in Morrisville, her singular achievement was seeing the school named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education.

A true follower of St. Francis, Sister Joan Irene loved animals, gardening, flowers, music, dancing, and all of the creative arts. She enjoyed her role as a sous chef in preparing wonderful meals, with Sister John Ann, for the sisters in her TAU. She loved to travel, and in 1992 she participated in the Assisi Pilgrimage which she called “the thrill of a lifetime,” to be able to walk on the paths walked by St. Francis himself. She had a beautiful alto voice, and as a child, she loved to ride her bike up to the parish Church, creep into a back pew, and listen to the sisters chanting the Office in their Convent Chapel attached to the side of the Church sanctuary. She writes in her biography, “I thought it sounded like the angels singing in heaven and I wanted to do that too.” I believe she is now singing her heart out with the angels, probably leading the whole Choir, in her joy to be safely home with God. Although her passing was sudden, our memories will continue, reminding us of one who loved deeply, lived simply, and remained faithful to the end. Rest in peace, dear Sister, and pray for us as we continue our own journey to join you in heaven.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Victoria Dziedzic

who entered eternal life 

Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 8:14 p.m. 

in the 77th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 96 .

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA

Feastday: February 4

Brothers:

John S. Dean 

1 Friend St 

Pittston PA 18640-1411 

Sisters:

Sister Myra Dziedzic OSF 

St. Joseph Villa 

464 Saint Bernardine St 

Reading PA 19607-1797

Helen Sweeney 

79 Sharp St 

Millville NJ 08332-2447 

Cousin:

Sister Mary Andreen Rusin OSF 

St. Joseph Villa 

464 Saint Bernardine St 

Reading PA 19607-1797

Good Morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Felicia Ann, and express our heartfelt sympathy to her sister Helen, her brother John, her extended family and friends, her sister in the congregation, Sister Myra, and her cousin Sister Andreen, both retired Bernardine Sisters living at St. Joseph Villa. On behalf of Sister Marilisa daSilva, Congregational Minister, we thank you for your presence here today and commend the soul of our dear Sister to your prayers.

Sister Felicia Ann, Victoria Martha Dziedzic (je-zik), was born in South Pittston, PA in 1922, one of nine children to Anthony and Regina Dziedzic. In her youth, she was very inspired by the sisters who were assigned to the parish in Port Griffith where she attended school, especially Sisters Irene, and Sienna. Her childhood faith grew strong under the influence of the sisters who taught her to pray, and who modeled for her a life of intimacy with God.

After graduating from high school, she entered the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in Reading, PA and was accepted to the novitiate in 1941. After her First Profession, Sister Felicia Ann began formal college studies and received her BS in Elementary Education from Villanova University. She served for 53 years in the ministry of teaching, beginning with Grade 2 and gradually advancing to Grade 8. Her assignments spanned many states including Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, Texas, and California. While in California she served as Principal and Local Minister for six years, and in Plymouth, PA she served as Principal for five years. She loved her ministry, and loved the children and the families whose lives she touched with her kindness and spiritual zeal.

All who knew or worked with Sister Felicia Ann remember her as one who put her heart and soul into her ministry. She had a big heart for the poor and faithfully collected supplies for neighboring needy communities, even as far as Tijuana, Mexico when she was missioned in California. She often received notes and cards from former students who remembered her with donations for the congregation, in gratitude for the education they received while in her classes during their early foundational years. In each local community, she accepted responsibilities generously, and was always available to assist others with jobs that required hard work. Many admired her energy and strong work ethic when she helped to efficiently organize the departure from convents where a parish school was closed and the sisters were re-assigned to new locations.

Sister Felicia Ann was still in active ministry when she became seriously ill and was transferred to St. Joseph Villa. She devoted these final years to a ministry of presence and prayer, and although her speech was affected, she spoke a language of kindness and love, lifting many hearts with her radiant smile. In these last few weeks, we saw that she was nearing the end, but she still continued to acknowledge the presence of visitors until her last conscious day. We pray that God, who called her to the consecrated life, has received her into a reward that surpasses all she could ever imagine. May her soul be at peace, and we rely on her prayers to help us as we continue to serve with a spirit inspired by her example.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Jean Mary McGowan 

who entered eternal life 

in the 62nd year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 85 .

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Sister Rosemary’s closest surviving family members: 

Nephew:

Vincent and Betty McGowan 

2265 Carlson Dr 

Willow Grove PA 19090-2230 

Niece:

Maureen and Rick Bundschuk 

303 Homestead Ct 

Mount Laurel NJ 08054-1031 

Good morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Rosemary McGowan. On behalf of Sister Marilisa Helena da Silva, our Congregational Minister, our Congregational Council and all the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, we offer our deepest sympathy to her family: her niece, Maureen, her nephew, Vincent and her great niece and great nephews and other family members and friends and to all who are unable to be with us here today. As we bid farewell and commend her soul to God, we gather as one family to honor her memory, to pray for her, and to celebrate her entrance into eternal life.  

Jean McGowan was born into the loving family of Vincent and Stella Nestor McGowan in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 16, 1932. She was a twin and both she and her sister were educated at St Francis Elementary School in Germantown, Pennsylvania. After eighth grade, both girls entered Little Flower High School where they were taught by some Bernardine Sisters.  

After graduation, Jean became a career girl working in a bank for 5 years. Then one day as she rode home on the trolley, she spoke with her twin sister about entering the convent. When the girls spoke with their mother, they discovered they actually had 2 relatives who were distant cousins in our Bernardine Franciscan Congregation: Sister Humilia and Mother Jerome. Both Jean and her sister Joan entered the Bernardine Franciscan Congregation on February 2, 1956. Following their years of initial formation they made their final profession on August 12. 1962.    

As a novice, Jean became known as Sister Rosemary. She continued her education and earned a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Villanova University and a Master of Arts in Religious Studies from St Charles Seminary in Overbrook, Pennsylvania. She spent 47 years within the field of education as an Elementary and Junior High School Teacher and Principal and she served her sisters as Superior in ministry throughout Pennsylvania, Michigan and Maryland. Sister retired in 2004 and continued to serve as part-time receptionist here in the Motherhouse, and as a volunteer helping out in the Communications office. She retired to St. Joseph Villa on June 13, 2016, the feast day of her dear St. Anthony of Padua to whom she had a great devotion. At that time, her main ministry became that of prayer apostle.  

Sister Rosemary’s dear friend Sister Rose Jameson wrote “that she had the opportunity to be missioned with Sister Rosemary for 3 years in Our Lady of Loreto School in southwest Philadelphia. During that time Sister Rosemary was tough but fair as a principal and superior. Even though other missions separated us in the following years, Sister remained a faithful friend for more than 37 years. Throughout everything, Sister Rosemary always remained a woman faithful to her prayer and helped me to be faithful to my prayer life.” 

On Ascension Thursday, May 10, 2018, Sister Rosemary heard God gently call her name. She left us all too soon at the age of 85 in the 62nd year of her convenant with her good and loving God. 

Today, we send you on your way with hearts full of gratitude and love. We pray:  

May the road to heaven rise up to meet you.  

May the songs of angels fill your ears.  

May the shine of God’s radiance fall warm upon your face. 

May prayers of intercession fall from your lips upon His ears. 

And, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA

Sister:

Bernie Sutter 

3419 Route 9 N 

Wedgewood Gardens 

Freehold NJ 07728-3284 

Niece:

Claudia Barsalou 

43 Governor St 

Cumberland RI 02864-1836 

Betty Duggan 

11718 Denman Rd 

Philadelphia PA 19154-3616 

Good morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister Mary Perpetua, Helen Rogala, and we offer our deepest sympathy to her sister Bernie, her niece Claudia, and her sister-in-law Betty. As one family, we gather to honor her memory, to pray for her and to celebrate her entrance into eternal life - one day before her 100 birthday.

Sister Perpetua, Helen Rogala, was born into the family of Martin and Mary Rogala in Central Falls Rhode Island, and after completing high school and postulancy, she entered the novitiate of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1944. Her journey with us for the next 53 years of ministry was entirely devoted to domestic and dietary service in schools, convents, and hospitals where she ministered: Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Virginia, and Massachusetts. During this time, she studied and received a Certificate from Holy Cross School of Culinary Arts in Bridgeport, CT.

Sister Perpetua was a beloved friend, sister and companion to many, and a respected religious in the congregation. She was a self-giving soul, willing to offer her service to others without waiting to be asked. She often anticipated the needs of others and those who knew her best recalled that she learned these traits from her family.

During her 44 years at the Provincial and Retreat House in Stamford, CT, Sister Perpetua was famous for her creativity in culinary arts. She was frugal in buying supplies and provisions, and exceptionally artistic in preparation and presentation of her meals. Her kitchen was always orderly and meticulously clean, and many remember the small touches she added to make things special, like the “hatchet cookies” served on George Washington’s birthday. She was well known by local vendors in the Stamford area, and she and her culinary companion, Sister Christelle, were once featured on the cover of Stew Leonard’s monthly Food publication, with Stew Leonard himself gifting them with a frozen turkey.

Sister Perpetua was very organized, professional, and conscientious in her work, taking pride in what she prepared and serving her meals with a deep sense of accomplishment. She was very generous in sharing her techniques, recipes, and experiences, and served as a mentor for many who sought her wise advice. She never saw her position as irrelevant, but used her gifts and talents abundantly, whether it was creating table favors, organizing basement closets, working with needlepoint, serving nutritious meals, or wrapping Christmas presents. And all the while, she lived her life as a consecrated religious with authenticity and great love for Jesus Christ whom she saw mirrored in those she served.

As she joins her many friends in the eternal city of God, we on earth can almost hear the joyful welcome: Well done good and faithful servant! Now share the banquet of the Lord, and take your place at the head of the table, which has been prepared for you for all eternity.

Sister Perpetua, may you rest from your labors in everlasting peace.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Chapel of the Garden of Peace Cemetery in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

Chapel of the Garden of Peace Cemetery in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

Hospital Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia 

Porto Alegre, RS Brazil

Birthday/Feastday: August 3

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Rita Clare Turek

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Nephew: 

Robert and Sarah Kuzynski 

220 Parsonage St 

Pittston PA 18640-2169 

Sister-in-law: 

Mary Turek 

704 Spooner Rd 

Virginia Beach VA 23462-2119 

Good morning. On behalf of our Congregational Minister, Sister Marilisa da Silva, and the Leadership Team, as well as, all the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, we welcome the family and friends of Sister Rita Clare Turek, especially her nephews, Robert and Ronald Kuzynski and niece-in-law, Sarah and her nephew-in-law, Robert. Our prayers and condolences are with you and with the family members and friends who are not able to be present today as we celebrate the entrance into eternal life of our dear Sister Rita Clare.

Last Wednesday, as I sat with Sister Rita Clare, she asked me to be certain to make her eulogy short. I will try my best to keep my promise to her and keep it brief.

On August 20, 1932, Joseph and Josephine Turek welcomed a tiny bundle into their family in Dupont, Pennsylvania. Rita had 3 brothers and 2 sisters all of whom preceded her in death. As a child, Rita attended Sacred Heart School in Dupont and entered the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters’ Aspirancy after eighth grade on September 1, 1947. After her years in initial formation, she made her final profession on August 12, 1958.

Sister Rita Clare spent her years of ministry in the field of education for 48 years in the primary, intermediate and junior high levels. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from College Misericordia in Dallas, Pennsylvania and a Masters in Education from Marygrove College in Detroit Michigan. While involved in active ministry, Sister served as teacher, principal, superior, and caregiver for her ill sister, companion to our sisters in St Joseph Villa and coordinator of the housekeeping staff there. She took up residence here at Sacred Heart Convent in 2006 where she resided until recently and serving as driver for the sisters to various appointments. With declining health, she transferred down to St Joseph Villa on January 22 nd of this year.

Sister Rita Clare was short and small in stature but she had a booming voice. She was always ready to hop in the car to take sisters to doctor appointments and on shopping excursions during which she frequently would end up at Dairy Queen. For the holidays she would take a car full of sisters to their families up state and then pick them up and bring them back home after the holidays. I am told that she was quite lucky at playing the lottery and even dappled a bit in the casinos when she was home with her sister. Sister had a love for sports. She spent these past few weeks rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles to win the Super Bowl and watched the winter Olympics rooting for her USA teams.

Quietly early in the morning of February 17 th , Sister Rita Clare heard the Lord call her name to gently wisp her home. She died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 85 and in the 65 th year of her covenant with her God.

Thank you, Sister Rita Clare for the witness of your good and dedicated life. You were a faithful servant reflecting God’s love and will be dearly missed. May you now rest in peace in the loving embrace of our Good and Gracious God.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Anna Schmidt

who entered eternal life 

in the 89th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 105 .

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA 

St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA

Place of Death 

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA

Feastday: September 27

Nephews:

Gregory Schmidt 

921 Red Fox Run 

Schwenksville, PA 19473-2140 

The Rev. Mr. Edward Schmidt 

130 Mosswood Ct 

North Chesterfield, VA 23236-2801 

Niece:

Mary Ann & David Gullick 

1125 Ellen Ct 

Schwenksville PA 19473-2098 

Good morning. We welcome everyone to the Mass of Christian Burial for our dear Sister de Paul Schmidt. On behalf of Sister Marilisa Helena da Silva, our Congregational Minister, our Congregational Council and all the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, we offer our deepest sympathy to her family: her niece, Mary Ann Gullick, and her nephews, Rev Mr Edward Schmidt and Gregory Schmidt, to her other family members and friends and all who are unable to be here with us today. As we bid farewell and commend her soul to God, we gather as one family to honor her memory, to pray for her, and to celebrate her entrance into eternal life.

On July 16, 1912, Valentine Schmidt and Marcia Orzel Schmidt welcomed a bundle of joy, whom they named Anna, into their family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Anna had one brother and 2 sisters. In this family God had a special plan for all three of the girls. They all entered Religious Life but into three different Congregations.

While growing up, Anna attended elementary school at St. Adalbert School in Philadelphia. She entered Alvernia High School in Reading, Pennsylvania after eighth grade and then joined the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters’ Aspirancy in 1926. She was received as a novice into the Congregation on her birthday on July 16, 1929 at which time she became known as Sister de Paul.

As a member of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, Sister de Paul continued her education at College Misericordia in Dallas, Pennsylvania where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and Education. She also continued her music education at Temple University. Sister served as an organist in many parishes where she was missioned and taught music to grade school students throughout Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Jersey, Texas and Michigan.

From 1952 until 1968 Sister was missioned as a Principal, Superior and teacher. During this time she was responsible for opening Holy Innocents School in Roseville, Michigan. For 3 years she served as a Novice Mistress in our Lady of the Rosary Province in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Her teaching ministry spanned a period of 58 years. As a semi-retired sister, she continued to offer assistance in the office at Divine Child Elementary School in Dearborn, Michigan where she ministered for twelve years. as part-time teacher, tutor and Attendance Recorder. Finally in 2004, she retired to St Joseph Villa here in Reading.

As we listened to the testimony of the Sisters at the wake service yesterday, it was very evident that Sister de Paul was a quiet and peace-filled person who was definitely loved by all. She was dedicated to her prayer life and life in fraternity with her sisters. She had a great gift of gab to which I am able to attest from visiting her down here in the Villa.

Sister de Paul heard God gently call her name to come home on the morning of Saturday, February 10 th , at 105 years of age in the 89 th year of her covenant with the Lord. We are certain that she went to her heavenly home with a song in her heart. Today she is probably conducting the heavenly choirs of angels and saints.

Thank you, Sister de Paul, for journeying with us and for reflecting God’s love through your life. We have all been touched by your life. Well done, good and faithful servant of God. We love you and we will miss you.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

Sister: 

Mary Dziedzina 

4125 N Point Pkwy Apt 201 

Charter Senior Living 

Alpharetta GA 30022-4100 

Cousin/Godchild: 

Ted Lesinski 

1013 Scenic View Dr 

Creek Wood Village 

Schwenksville PA 19473-2078 

Grand Niece: 

Deborah Jaegear 

5255 Bannergate Dr 

Alpharetta GA 30022-5123 

 

 Good morning everyone.

 On behalf of Sister Marilisa and our congregational administration, I extend our deepest sympathy and loving support to all of you gathered here today: family, friends, and Bernardine Franciscan Sisters as we celebrate the entrance into eternal life of our dear Sister Mary Sebastian.

 Sister Sebastian, Helen Krasowski, was born in Conshohocken, PA on January 27, 1920, to Paul and Adelle Krasowski and was baptized in St. Mary’s Church in Conshohocken. When her mother passed away 9 months later, her Aunt and Uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Filanowicz, welcomed her into their home and raised her as a daughter. Sister Sebastian loved her family, especially her cousin Mary who she knew as a sister, and she remained close to them all her life, connecting to them with cards, calls and frequent visits. They often visited her in Reading for the special celebrations that honored her life as a Bernardine Franciscan Ssister.

 Sister Sebastian died at the age of 98, and in the 77 th year of her covenant with the Lord. She began her consecrated life at the age of 21 when she was received into the congregation at Mount Alvernia in Reading, and after completing her novitiate, she began her ministry of service as a domestic sister for 17 years. After she completed her education, graduating from College Misericordia in Dallas, PA with a B.S. in elementary education, she began her teaching ministry in various parishes in the Philadelphia and Scranton Diocesan schools until her retirement in 1995.

 During her years in religious life, Sister Sebastian shared herself most generously with her sisters in each fraternity. Although quiet and reserved, she was always attentive to the needs of others, ready to offer a helping hand, to assist with cooking, making afghans for various community projects or preparing food for parish picnics. She kept her own counsel in trying situations without complaint, and was thoughtful and gentle in her conversations. She was a humble woman, very devoted to the missions, often sharing a generous gift from her very small monthly allowance for the poor and other charitable causes. Her possessions were few, but her heart was very big.

 The great love of her life, besides the Lord Jesus, was baseball with football a close second. She always followed games on the radio, and kept a small portable radio supplied with batteries so that she could stay on top of her favorite teams, their rankings, and listen to the play-off. She lived a long and full life, and when her health began to fail, she entered into the dark journey to death without fear, knowing the one she loved most dearly was with her at every step.

 She died peacefully at St. Joseph Villa in the evening of January 29, 2018. She will be sadly missed by her devoted family, her many friends in the congregation, and her former students. We remember her with affection, asking her to intercede for us before God, knowing that she is now at peace.

In love and compassion we 

commend to God our dear

Carol Ann Babula

 who entered eternal life 

in the 56th year of 

her covenant with the Lord 

at age 73 .

St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA

Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA

St. Joseph Villa 

Reading, PA

Feastday: October 12

  Communion with all our sisters reaches beyond this life; 

Cousin:

Bernadette Teets 

7556 E Sweetwater Ave 

Scottsdale AZ 85260 

 

Good morning. On behalf of Sister Marilisa da Silva, Congregational Minister, and the Congregational Leadership Team, as well as all the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, we welcome you.

We express our condolences to Sister Rose Maxine’s Family and friends especially to the family of Jon and Bernadette Teets, to Kenneth Klos, and to Ann Klos Morning and her son, John Morning.

We welcome Msgr. Edward O’Neil and Father John Gloss from St. John Vianney Parish in Colonia, New Jersey. They will be presiding at the Liturgy this morning.

Welcome also to Deacon Thomas Bresnan, who will join them in the liturgy.

From St John Vianney parish family, we welcome Sister Eileen Jude, Principal, along with faculty members, friends, and parishioners. We also welcome the friends of Sister Rose Maxine from South River, New Jersey. To all of you, thank you for joining us this morning.

Sister Rose Maxine (Carol Ann Babula), was born on January 28, 1944 in South River, New Jersey. She was the only child of the late Edward and Caroline Babula. She is survived by cousins.

In 1961, on completion of High School at Mt Alvernia in Reading, PA, Sister Rose Maxine moved on through the formation period in the congregation of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, leading to profession of her final vows in 1968.

Sister Rose Maxine pursued the field of education, earning a college degree and two Master degrees. Sister Rose served in the field of education for 52 years.

She was principal for nine years in her home town of South River, New Jersey at St. Mary of Ostrabrama School. She also taught in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland and New Jersey. Her last teaching assignment was in Colonia, New Jersey at her dearly loved parish of St. John Vianney, where she ministered for 22 years.

Sister Rose was a woman of strength and courage. She kept going despite the pain from severe arthritis and other complications. She was very dedicated to fostering growth in children and instilled in them Christian values, wanting them to do well and to do well in life.

It was the students at St John Vianney, from the youngest to the oldest, who warmed her heart during her period of illness with their frequent handmade get well cards. All were creative, even those with backward letters and stick figures. To Sister Rose Maxine, each was a masterpiece to be treasured. And she did indeed treasure them.

The priests, parishioners, principal, faculty, and children of St John Vianney Parish were so faithful in assisting Sister during her time of illness, which was a tribute to Sister Rose of their affection for her.

Sister Rose Maxine had a very compassionate heart for all whom she met. One of her common sayings was, “Why not?” And if anyone needed help, she was right there. You could always find her working at the annual Parish festival and other functions. Generosity and kindness were part of who she was.

Many of us here today have been affected by her caring, her smile, her kind words, her encouragement, her generosity, or an immediate promise of prayer. She touched many lives and she was touched by the lives of many.

Sister Rose Maxine loved her family and frequently mentioned her cousins and prayed for their needs. She loved her students, her friends, and she loved her religious sisters, those with whom she lived, and especially the ones in her group, who entered religious life the same year that she did. She loved the people of God and she loved her God.

Sister Rose was very faithful to her prayer life and had special devotion to the Blessed Mother. One of the highlights of her year was the May Crowning, which she took special care in preparing. She also worked unceasingly for the missions coordinating the school Mardi Gras.

Sister, loved the theatre and being an 8 th grade teacher. She would take her graduating students to New York City to see a Broadway show, which she considered a real treat. Although she had seen the performance of “Wicked” about ten times. That was quite enough, even for Sister Rose.

Another favorite thing of Sister Rose Maxine was word games. She claimed it kept her mind sharp. And she surely could hold her own with the best of scrabble players.

Sister Rose Maxine’s love for God and His people, as well as for her Bernardine Community is an inspiration. She had a generous spirit that will remain with us in our memories. God has blessed us through the gift of her life.

Sister Rose Maxine spent the last month of her earthly life among her religious sisters at St Joseph Villa in Reading, Pennsylvania.

On New Year’s Day of 2018, at the age of 73 and in her 56 th year in Religious life, God gently called her name and she went to her heavenly home with a smile upon her face.

Thank you, Sister Rose Maxine, for journeying with us and for reflecting God’s love through your life. Well done good and faithful servant of God.

We love you and we will miss you.