Marists All: Issue #62 June 2001
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ISSUE # 62
June 2001
THE HERITAGE PROJECT
Brian Desilets, Richard Foy, and Gus Nolan are cooperating with the Director of Archives at
Marist College in the work of creating an encyclopedic history of the college from its first days
to the present. The early phase of the project naturally deals with the arrival of the Marist
Brothers in Poughkeepsie and the early years of St. Ann's Hermitage. It includes Marist
Training School, followed by Marian College and the state approval. The natural follow-up
will be to explore the development of Marist College through the administrations of Brother
Paul Ambrose and Linus Richard Foy. Not to be overlooked will be the Nilus Donnelly
construction era. The project will culminate with the present administration of Dr. Dennis
Murray.
Brian, Richard, and Gus have assumed leadership in assembling visuals and audios regarding
the historical background of Marist College, particularly as influenced by Marists. They have
sent postals and e-mails to those on our newsletter list requesting photos and slides of those
extended years of Marist influence on the college. They are also looking to interview those
who have anecdotes and stories that capture the culture of those evolving years. If interested in
contributing to this project, notify Gus so that he can make arrangements with you for a taped
interview. The visuals and audios will be digitized and maintained as a heritage at the Marist
College Library. Some of that heritage will be shared through the Marists All newsletter and
the Marists All. web site. We would like this note to serve as a reminder of the request already
sent out by Gus Nolan. Gus is the one who is accepting the material for this project at the
following address: Prof. Augustine Nolan, School of Communications/Lowell Thomas
Center, Marist College, Poughkeepsie NY 12601.
The Three Presidents
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The principal architects of Marist College, at a picture taken during the dedication of the new
Fontaine Building in 2001, named to honor Brother Paul Ambrose (Fontaine), the founder of
Marist, who led the college from 1943 to 1958. He was followed by (Linus) Richard Foy
(1958 to 1979) who established the evening division and oversaw the transition from a
commuter college to a residential college and from an all-male institution to a co-ed college.
Dennis Murray , the President since 1979, engineered its spectacular growth from 2000 to
3500 students, transformed the campus via an ambitious building program and moved it to a
position where it has been ranked among the top 20 Northern Regional Universities by U. S.
News and "highly selective" by Barron's. Recently the Templeton Foundation cited Marist
as one of 300 institutions which have creatively combined character development with the
academic experience.
FROM TIM (Timothy Leo) FALKENSTEIN ('48): This week my brother-in-law Jack Nolty
(Esopus '47) and his wife Margaret, along with myself and my wife Jo, paid a visit to Br.
Bernard Nolan and the Marist retirement home in Miami. We had a wonderful time chatting
with him about old times and about names of the many brothers we remembered. He was a
most magnificent host and clued us in on the many questions we asked. We also paid a short
visit to Brother Paul Ambrose, and that also was great. Brother Paul gave us the February issue
of Marists All, and we enjoyed reading every page of it. Jack and I are very interested in the
newsletter and would like to be included in the mailings and in the e-mail notices.
During the summer Jo and I visit our five kids in Virginia, Texas, and New England. In
addition, we usually go somewhere in Europe on military space-a flights, staying at bases
when we can; this is one of our perks - retired Navy with 28 years of active duty. Jack will
send his address under separate cover. Mine is below. What a delight to receive your e-mail. I
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have already made contact with Phil Hannigan ('60) who has been residing in Ft. Myers for the
past two years. We had a great luncheon together, talking endlessly about our Marist years and
friends and about our second careers. Hope this will be the beginning of a great relationship.
(1828 Pine Valley Drive (#216), Ft. Myers FL 33907; 941-481-4815; tarnfo@aol.com)
FROM JOHN PERRING-MULLIGAN ('64): I was delighted to receive the most recent copy
of Marists All and embarrassed that I had forgotten to send our e-mail address:
perrmull@msn.com. Peg and I are looking forward to a month in Italy. We figure that we had
better go now in case Sean is out of office in October. I have not been to the Motherhouse
since 1973. It will be a bit of a pilgrimage for me and the first time Peg has been to Europe.
We hope to do our annual retreat in Assisi and then explore Rome, Florence, Venice and the
Amalfi coast. We continue to live in Downingtown. We give thanks everyday for our
blessings. We are part of a new parish in Downingtown; it is giving us a renewed sense of
church life.(175 Oak Street, Downingtown PA 19335; 610-873-3079)
FROM DICK COUTO ('60): At Emory and Henry College Ron Diss ('60) has won its
veryfirst Hope Award for the impact of his college teaching on the community. Ron enjoys a
remarkable reputation for teacher training in the central Appalachian region. He lives at 511
North Main Street, Rural Retreat VA 24368. I pass this information along primarily because I
think Ron would say that this recognition describes teaching as we were taught to teach within
the Marist tradition.
The following details the reasons for the award: "Anyone who knows Ron Diss knows of his
commitment to opening the doors of learning to children and to all people. As a member of the
Emory & Henry faculty, Ron has long worked to integrate service to others into his classroom.
At the end of a semester, his students leave knowing much about educational theory and
practice, but just as importantly they know what it means to use that knowledge for the good of
all children and for the good of entire communities. Students learn this by their experience at
the sites Ron carefully chooses for their service work. They also learn it through Ron's
example …
"Ron's vision of all children learning to read and being empowered to learn leads him each
semester to conduct training sessions for every Emory & Henry student who will be serving as
tutors in the public schools through the tutoring program … Today, growing from Ron's work,
more than fifty E & H students go weekly into the public schools of Washington and Smyth
counties to tutor young children in reading and math skills. In this service, lives are changed.
Because education is a part of hope, we honor Ron Diss as a person of hope."(2424 Trefoil
Way, Richmond VA 23235-3814; 804-330-9831; rcouto@richmond.edu)
FROM JERRY BYRNE ('60): Thank you so much for directing me to this wonderful web
site. I spent some hours yesterday reading every article and looking at every name and
recalling faces and memories from years ago. Even to know that Brother Stephen Urban is still
around was good news; he was Master of Juniors when I attended Marist Prep. My mother said
he had such a wonderful singing voice, and he did.
I found Ed Doran's email address. I will drop him a line this morning. The coincidences are
just too many. Ed is at St. Gerard Majella Church, my name is Gerard (named after that saint),
and for my last five retreats at Mt. St. Alphonsus in Esopus I have occupied room #425; and
that is the St. Gerard Majella room. Once again, thank you for drawing me to this web site. I
look forward to the news about things Marist and to visiting with old friends.(2217 Orchard
Dr., South Plainfield NJ 07080; 908-561-1267; Jerry_Byrne@us.schindler.com)
THE MARIST FAMILY INSTITUTE OF SPIRITUALITY
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We now have more details regarding the summer institute to be held again at Marist College,
this year from Thursday, July 5th (4:30 registration) to Sunday, July 8th, closing with lunch at
noon.
The first evening Larry Keogh will give the keynote address, "Prayer through the Life Cycle."
Morning presentations will be given by Brother Stephen Urban Minogue, Pat Zirkel, and Sister
Mary Jane Kenny, SMSM. On Friday and Saturday evenings there will be interactive sessions,
one by Father Ed Keel, SM, and another led by Gus Nolan and David Kammer.
Friday afternoon Barney Sheridan will lead a remembrance prayer service at the Marist
cemetery in Esopus. The liturgy will be held in the Esopus chapel that afternoon.
Brother Leo Shea, provincial of the Esopus province, will speak Saturday afternoon, followed
by liturgy in the renovated Marist College chapel. Farther Owen Lafferty will lead both
Eucharistic liturgies. To see a detailed Schedule of events for this institute, look at LATE
NEWS on our web site: www.ecommerce.marist.edu/foy/maristsal
The fee for meals and room is $350 for a couple and $225 for one person. This year bed linen,
blanket, pillow, and towels will be provided.
Please notify Larry Keogh about your attendance: ldkjmk@aol.com; FAX: 815-838-1577
17125 West 145th Street, Lockport IL 60441-2295; Phone: 815-838-1570
CAMP MARIST by MICHAEL FLYNN ('65):
Thank you for all your efforts through the years with Marists All ~ I relish the time spent
reading and re-reading all the issues since #1! I am the chairman of the advisory board for
Camp Marist. The board is now in its second year. In 1999 as part of the 50th anniversary year
for Camp Marist, Camp Director Brother Jim Halliday created this advisory board to help him
and the Marist Brothers provincial council chart a course for the future of Camp Marist. The
advisory board is excited about the fantastic opportunities we have to help the Marist Brothers
benefit from this wonderful asset in New Hampshire.
The advisory board is comprised of current camp staff members Brothers Roy George, Bill
Maske, Tom Lee and Jim Vagan, Monsignor Dermott Brennan, camp chaplain since 1965, and
camp staff alumni Mike Flynn (Christopher Columbus, Miami), Roy Speedling (Archbishop
Molloy), Bob Miressi (Mount St. Michael), and Tom Rubbone (St. Mary's, Manhasset).
The key message that came out of this year's spring advisory board meeting at Marist High in
Bayonne is that Camp Marist welcomes all members of the Marist Family. We would like to
remind the readers of Marists All that they and their families are invited to visit Camp Marist
and to share in the wonderful beauty of that special place on Lake Ossipee that holds such
wonderful memories for so many Marists. In a fall issue of the newsletter we hope to publish a
long list of summer visitors to the camp.
This summer visitors can look forward to seeing these staff members: Brothers Kenneth
Robert, Louis Richard, Gerry Brown, Jim Vagan, Bill Maske, Francis Thomas, Alphonse
Matuga, Valerian, Godfrey Robertson, Henry Sawicki, Pat McNulty, Ken Marino, Louis
Dubois, Denis Caverley, George DiCarluccio, Frank Farrell, Rob Clark, Mike Fisher, Scotty
Hughes, Fabian Mayor, Aquinas Richard, and Francis Ryan. Joe Bouchard ('63) has been a
staff member since l966 and is the Director of Activities.
The advisory board is looking to develop more opportunities for members of the Marist Family
to enjoythe use of the camp with a family campground and with new summer and winter
family lodges. All readers of Marists All are welcome to share their ideas via our web site.
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Even now you can instantaneously be in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire by
going to www.cmarist.org - the Camp Marist web site. Alumni of the camp can share
memories and contact fellow alumni through this site, and of course, future campers and their
parents can find out all they want to know about Camp Marist at that site.(5850 S.W. 53rd
Terrace, Miami FL 33155; Michael.E.Flynn@usa.xerox.com)
FROM MICHAEL MURPHY ('76): I am a 1970 grad of Christ the King and I was a Marist
candidate in the early 70's. I even made it to the novitiate in Cold Spring in 1976. I have warm
memories of living at Christ the King, Bayonne, Taconic Lodge in Cold Spring, and Esopus. I
have renewed my contact by browsing to see names of old friends and acquaintances, who's
around and who's not. It is nice trip down memory lane. I live in South Jersey and teach Senior
English at Southern Regional High School, the district school for Long Beach Island. I've
made a nice home here. Contact from old friends is always welcome! (200 Compass Road,
Manahawkin NJ 08050; surfmurph@aol.com)
FROM JIM FRIEL ('52): I just came from a dinner with a number of the Marist alumni and
their spouses. We meet a couple of times a year. This time we met at La Grange, in West Islip,
on Montauk Highway. It's a great place. Tom and Agnes Murphy arranged the get-together.
Jim and Ginny Gargan were there, as were Jack and Janet Meehan, and Paul and Marilyn
Stengel. Tom and Kathy Hourican usually join us, but Tom had a Lacrosse event. I had to
leave my wife Kate Kelly in Northport because I joined the others after a professional meeting.
I have to make a correction in a previous message about Metro-Mac that I sent to the
newsletter. Jim Gargan was one of the founding members of the first alumni group outside of
Marist College. Jim wrote the document to set up this very successful group. I might add that
our class of l956 (year of graduation from the college), also called the class of l952 (the year of
investiture), is holding its 45th anniversary meeting at Marist College during Homecoming
Week, October l2th. The organizers are classmates: Bernie (Joe) Woods, Jack Duggan, Jim
Madden, Harry Henkey, Joe McKiernan, and myself. Marist College and the Marist Brothers
have been very cooperative in helping us organize the event. We are having some problems,
though, in contacting some members of the class. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Please
spread the word. (20 Vail Street, Northport NY 11768-3038; 516-757-7506;
frielkelly@aol.com)
FROM BR. SEAN SAMMON, V.G. ('66): Many thanks for the news about Frank Moran. As I
read through the notice I could not help but think how blessed our Marist movement has been
by so many who have captured Marcellin's spirit and have lived it out in so many different
ways.
Within the last year FMS Echo has been revamped to include the wide Marist Family. Many
who look forward to the Marists All publication might enjoy a piece from Echo from time to
time. If you do not get it already, please let me know and I'll have you put on the mailing list.
Other than the day to day, life seems to move on much too quickly. I hosted family members in
Rome recently. Folks here were so very welcoming that everyone in the family was touched by
the hospitality. As I get older, that quality of our life becomes more and more important.
(Fratelli Maristi, Piazzale M. Champagnat, 2; C.P. 10250; 00144, Roma; ssammon@aol.com)
FROM BR. JOE BELANGER ('43): The annual St. Marcellin Champagnat dinner and lecture
in Catholic Studies was held at Marist College April 2nd. Some 200 people were at the lecture
and about 90 people were at the dinner. Dr. Peter Steinfels spoke on the Catholic Church in
2025. The major point, expectedly, was the growing role of the laity. Steinfels is
knowledgeable, articulate, and friendly. His only regret was missing the NCAA men's
basketball final, but his wife was taping it for him! I must thank all of you who have made this
annual dinner and lecture possible.
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On another very important note: We can provide a free meal each day to the hungry simply by
clicking daily on the Hunger Project web site. At www.thehungersite.com go down to the P.S.
and the "Click here" and then on to "Donate Free Food." It takes only two minutes a day. Last
year, The Hunger Site supporters donated over 167 million cups of food to the hungry -- just
from clicking. It only takes a minute and doesn't cost a thing.(Marist College, Poughkeepsie
NY 12601; 845-575-3040; joseph.belanger@marist.edu)
FROM BR. FRANCIS KLUG ('44): It is great to see a couple of my classmates from the
novitiate, scholasticate, and second novitiate, Brian and Richie, making such significant
contributions to the success of Marists All. I enjoyed the last issue; congratulations on another
job well done. Thank you for making this venture such a successful reality. It is obviously
inspiring to so many people. A final reason for this message: fmsaug@triplet.net will close
down forever at the end of the month. After that, I'll be spending the summer in Esopus,
where lenarchive@aol.com, if it is still operating, will be where I can be contacted. My contact
down in Brownsville? I'll leave that matter till September when I arrive. Marist Community,
1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Georgia, has closed.
So, after many, many years the Marist Brothers are no longer in Georgia. Gene and Joe
(Brothers Richard Michel and Joe Teston) will leave their home state and move to a retirement
home with Brother Bernard Nolan in Miami. Brother Luke Driscoll will be at the Mount in the
Bronx. Brother Jimmy Brady will take up residence with Brother Chanel Lambert in another
retirement home in Miami. And finally Augusta's last Brother Director, Frank Klug, will make
his computer skills available to St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville, Texas.
JOHN (James Austin) McALEER ('42) from Ruth: I want you to know how much the
reconnecting with "the brothers" meant to John. When he left the order after fifteen years it
was a little like the last scene in THE NUN'S STORY. So many of you have sent notes and
cards to me and my family relating memories you have of John. They help us to keep smiles
on our faces as we walk through this journey of grief. We are grateful for that.
I was asked to write something for Marists All from my point of view. First, I want to quote
from his obituary which my daughter wrote: "John's lifelong dedication to both teaching and
learning continues with his anatomical donation to University of Kansas Medical Center. His
life was filled with his devotion to family and faith; his love of art, music, politics, sports and
nature; his commitment to justice and peace; and his enjoyment of 38 years of service and
fellowship in a 12-step program." John made a difference in the lives of many people,
including my own. We are thankful that so many made that known to him in the last year of
his life.
John was the most supportive husband any woman could wish for. I went back to school in
the seventies to finish a degree I had been working on for a long time. It was a time when the
"non-traditional aged student" was being welcomed back to college. I went to school with
several "older" women whose spouses felt very threatened by their action. Not John! He not
only helped me along the way but insisted that I continue on to graduate school as soon as I
had the BA in hand! When my spiritual journey took a path in a different direction, he was so
encouraging without giving up his own convictions. And when, much to my surprise, I found
myself on the road to ordination to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church, John was the
most staunch and understanding supporter I had. He used to tell people, "I married this nice
Irish Catholic girl from Boston and she turns out to be a WASP priest!" In his retirement he
designated himself to be my "spear carrier." He called himself the "Vatican Observer" at all
Episcopal functions he attended and enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the now
Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. I miss him terribly but thank God every day for
his presence in my life. And, I thank God for all his Marist brothers who keep me and our
family in prayer. (8700 Metcalf (l02-E), Overland Park KS 66212; fatherruth@earthlink.net)
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FROM GERRY MILLER ('64): How wonderful it feels to be remembered and discovered
after 36 years! I went onto the internet at the Marist page because my Lenten resolve was to
track down those who have had distinctive influences on my life. Of course, most of those on
the list ended up being Marist or ex-Marist. What a delight to receive your e-mail! The
synchronicity of the Spirit? I have located and am in contact with Brothers Tim Brady, Ken
Hogan, and Francis Zaglauer.
All told, my Marist preparation spanned seven years, and those seven years made a
monumental impact on me. I was in Cold Spring at Marist Hall, 1960-63; Tyngsboro at St.
Joseph Novitiate, 1963-65 and Poughkeepsie at Marist College, 1965-67.
I have been living and working as an organizational psychologist in Washington DC for the
last 25 years. I have a small training firm headquartered in DC. I am still teaching, but in the
corporate, adult educational arena. I have attached one of our "propaganda sheets" to give an
idea of what troubles I have been bringing to the business world.(218 M Street, SW,
Washington DC 20024-3602; 202-554-8334; gvm@radix.net)
FMS UPDATE an electronic publication out of Rome, on May 5, 2001 carried the following
summary of Leonard's Marist life, along with an accompanying picture.
On March 31, 2001, Brother Leonard Voegtle, former Provincial of Esopus, then
Procurator and General Councilor, died of a rare blood disease. He was 67. As a
young Brother, Leonard gained a distinguished doctorate in Canon Law from
Catholic University in Washington DC. That achievement laid a strong foundation
of careful scholarship in his life and work.
In the upheaval in the Church and Religious Life following Vatican II, he was
called to be Provincial at the early age of 34, and those six years were a challenge
to his courage and skills as a Marist leader. His vision and prudence were of great
assistance to the Province as it negotiated those historic times. And that experience
further served him well during his years as Procurator and Councilor in
Rome. Unfortunately, ill health led to his resignation from those roles before the
end of his mandate.
He then undertook a ministry in canon law, serving as a member of the Marriage
Tribunal in the Archdiocese of Newark NJ. Even more importantly, he gave himself
unstintingly to the promotion of a deeper understanding of Marcellin Champagnat
and our Marist patrimony throughout the English-speaking world. He did this
through conferences, writings and historical research. In particular he led the
Manziana groups each year on their pilgrimage to the Hermitage, and he wrote the
first of what was to be a three-volume history of the Marist Brothers in the USA. In
the years just before his death he was the official archivist of the Marist Brothers in
the United States.
FROM JOHN DILLON ('61): I am finally making contact through the web so that I can
enter the 21st century with Marists All. You may retire my postal address and update it with:
JunnyD@aol.com. I had been planning to contact you much earlier. I had thought out a real
snappy, witty message with bon mots, recollections, et al., but then I got word of Brother
Leonard's passing. That sure snapped my sense of humor back into reality.
I had Leonard as a teacher at "The Prep" in Esopus in the late 50's. I had always been in awe
of him for his intellect while I was a student. I was sort of intimidated by his cerebral 'handle'
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on life. I \ was just too unsophisticated to appreciate him while I was under his tutelage. Only
years later did I fully realize how unique and wonderful he was, and what a vast sense of
humor he possessed. How dedicated he was to the Marist life!
I will never comprehend just how he was able to maintain the connections that he had made
during the 45 plus years that was his teaching career. His letter writing connections to ex-
Marists was myriad. I am sure that there are many, many more guys who will miss him and
his wry/dry sense of humor and views. Even during the medical treatment he had been
undergoing, his spirit and ironic comments were equally apparent. He sure was one of a kind,
and I know that the Marists have lost a true original. List me alphabetically with others who
shall miss him.(346 1/2 Westminster Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90020; 323-938-7224;
JunnyD@aol.com)
BROTHER LEONARD VOEGTLE - REMEMBERED & CELEBRATED:
Tom Crimmins ('63): I was at Leonard Voegtle's funeral. Philip Robert gave a beautiful
picture of an extraordinary man. When they started singing Salve Regina a flood of great
memories came back. I remember when Lenny taught us 10th grade World History up in
Esopus. He came to class one day and said that he had been analyzing how Albany prepared
essays for the regents exams. He said that he had detected a pattern. He suggested that we
prepare an essay on feudalism because, according to his calculations, it was "due." Needless
to say, when we opened our regents exam in June, there it was. We looked up at him and he
just gave us that knowing smile. He never forgot to send "birthday and anniversary letters."
He always found the time in his busy schedule to keep up with his friends. He was a special
man.
Br. Philip Robert ('48): If I succeeded in capturing the person of Leonard in my (eulogy), I
am more convinced than ever that it was thanks to the inspiration and guidance of the Holy
Spirit. I even amazed myself, when it was all over, at some of the thoughts expressed. So, I
feel that I was truly only a vehicle. If we can keep the spirit of Leonard alive, then I feel it
will have been very worthwhile.
Msgr Joseph Roth, D.D., V.G. ('56): Thanks for giving me the news. I am certainly saddened
by the passing of such a fine Marist Brother. May Our Lord grant him eternal rest. May Our
Lady lead him to her Son. I will offer a Mass for the repose of his soul this week.
Dan St. Jacques ('52): In my opinion there was no one of greater intellect than Len Voegtle. I
remember him playing three-wall handball and calculating in his head the angle to use to
return the ball. I was a good student of that. Len inspired many of us to study. After leaving
the congregation, I completed my college and taught as a part time professor at a local
university.
Mike Kelly ('50): Thanks for the info on Len - one of the best people I have had the pleasure
of knowing. We exchanged e-mail just a short time before he died. Terrible loss, but I am
sure that he is in a better place.
Tom McGovern (66): I just read sadly about Len's death, but Philip Robert's reflections
brought the smile back to my face. I was often a recipient of those GIFTS of which his life
seemed boundless. Thank you for gathering us and for keeping us abreast of so many things.
Sr. Virginia Connors, S.S.S. Brother Lenny was so VERY good to my brother Tom. Len and I
corresponded for several years; his letters were always interesting. I'll send a memorial.
Bob Holm ('60): Brother Leonard is truly in residence with St. Marcellin and the heavenly
host.
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Ed Cashin ('46): Leonard was a unique combination, a near genius and a good guy, very
caring and unselfish. He made his mark in and on the history of the Marists.
Tom Nolan ('64): I was sorry to hear of Len's death. He always managed to remember my
birthday and send a card, as I know he did with many others. He was a man who cared about
the monks and the history of the Marist Brothers, and he cared very deeply about God. He
was a true scholar. I regret that I can't attend the wake or the funeral. My prayers will be with
him.
FROM PAT GALLAGHER ('53): I have gone to the wonderful M.A. web page a number of
times, but somehow I forgot to check out the February issue of Marists All. So when I finally
did so, it was eerie reading Lenny's words there, knowing that he had already passed to the
incomparable rewards of a life spent for others.
The events of the past few weeks, culminating in the news about Lenny, got me to face the
inevitable fact that as "this band of brothers" grows older, announcements such as these will
come with more frequent regularity. I am celebrating my 65th birthday this week, and so
many times in the past that event was accompanied by most pleasant and informative notes
from Lenny. He will always remain in my mind "that patient listener and supportive guide,"
in the words of the eulogy.
Back in the late 60s and early 70s when I was facing the major decision of a dramatic change
in life style, Lenny listened, and he guided. My decision was made with total support from
him; he made what I had foreseen as so difficult a transition, one that was facilitated by his
kindness and help. I will never forget what his aid meant to me in getting me started on a new
life. That was a great gift to me.
Yes, Lenny was a gift, as the eulogy so beautifully described. I am the better for his presence
in my life. He also did much to restore and improve my respect for St. Marcellin by making
the founder so much more personal. I now regret the manner in which the founder's thoughts
were presented to us in the novitiate and wonder what effect the newer version would have
had on me.
As I celebrate my 65th, I'll go for a long and quiet walk in the woods, and hope to end up in a
very meditative mood amid the burgeoning signs of spring here on our mountain side. It's
time for Mary and me to keep assessing what we want to do with the time remaining to us.
We want to travel: so for my birthday we'll be taking a river cruise in May from Amsterdam
to Vienna. Mary, who previously decided to travel to Egypt, will be going to India this
November, two places I prefer not to see. I am active on the advisory board of an
international consulting firm dealing with the democratization of foreign police forces; this
might end up with some international travel, -- to Kosovo, Macedonia, South Africa -- not
exactly the greatest locations.
I am teaching a Latin class to some home schoolers and will start a class in English for
Mexican workers. Mary and I judge the art and literature contests at the local school and we
offer the b'n'b to special visitors coming to the school.
The children are doing very well, with Sean married and living in LA; Karen, married and
living in Fairfax, Virginia; and Beth, at 25 and in LA, still looking to find her role in media
production. We are blessed with good health, and Mary and I share a loving relationship that
provides daily satisfaction and growing support for each other.(Wild Geese Inn, P.O. Box 60,
Indian Valley VA 24105; 540-789-4056; gpatrick@swva.net)
FROM FRANK SUTTON ('59): In Vermont this is our week off from classes. I made a
quick visit to my mom in Ft. Lauderdale where she celebrated her 90th birthday. The e-mail
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list on the web site is great; now all I have to do is use it.(P.O. Box 142, Manchester Center
VT 05255; 802-362-1165; suttonpl@sover.net)
GMC PICNIC: Mount St. Michael ~ Saturday, September 15th ~ Noon to 5 p.m.
We give you advanced notice. The Greater Marist Community picnic will take place again at
Mt. St. Michael in the Bronx, near the Mt. Vernon border at Nereid and Murdock Avenues.
The gathering will occur on Saturday, September 15th ~ noon to 5 p.m. Come with spouse
and children or come alone. Bring your own beverage and a potluck dish for a shared meal.
All Brothers are most welcome to join in. Thanks to the director and to the community of the
Mount for welcoming us. We look forward to seeing many of you. We have been having this
picnic each year on the second Saturday after Labor Day. Mark September 15th on your
calendar!
FROM MICHAEL (Michael Vincent) KELLY ('50 ): Particularly memorable in year 2000
was the reunion of the group of '50 at Marist College. It was amazing to see what 50 years
has wrought and to recall all of those happy memories of the past half-century. We look
forward to seeing those who could not make the reunion at the next one in the year 2050! We
are pleased to tell all that our drive back to Burbank was trouble free and enjoyable, as we
adapted to the company of our one-year-old twin grandsons!
I retired last year but have yet to experience a slower lifestyle. Among the activities that help
me keep busy is teaching two engineering ethics courses at California State University. In
some respects, it is like teaching applied morality to students who are very interested in and
responsive to the issues. We are always delighted to share our beautiful weather with anyone
who comes our way. One who accepted that invitation is Father Joe McKenna, my cousin
from Ireland. He has become our new parish priest. Thanks for all you do to keep the good
words flowing to those who are happy to hear them.(2400 North Orchard Drive, Burbank CA
91504; 818-840-8993; jkelly@ix.netcom.com)
DECEASED As we go to press, we have word that Brother Adolph Leo Labonte ('44)
died at 1 am, Saturday, May 19, 2001. He had been at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx. After
many years teaching stateside, Adolph spent his middle years helping at various Marist
mission posts throughout the world. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday,
May 22nd at the Mount. Burial was in Esopus Wednesday, May 23rd. May Brother Adolph
rest in peace.
Editors' Note: FINANCIAL REPORT ~ MARISTS ALL
We have not reported on our finances since last summer, probably because we have not been
hurting! Last summer in the period of time when we were preparing issue #55 for July 2000,
we received contributions of $720. Over the six issues prior to this one, contributions have
averaged only $120 per issue, and during the preparation of this issue we have not received
anything. Yet we have not been concerned because our balances, though dropping, have been
healthy. They have ranged from $2009 down to $1443. When we were mailing to everyone
on our list, we were averaging expenses of $330 per issue; after we went on line in January
2001, we mailed only to those for whom we have no functioning e-mail address. Now our
expenses are averaging $220 per issue. All expenses are those directly related to publishing
and mailing the newsletter. Our equipment expenses, travel expenses, and all other personal
expenses have never been included in the expenses of the newsletter. Of course, we are
extremely grateful for the support we have had over more than fourteen years. We wish we
had been more faithful in promptly acknowledging every single contribution. If we have
missed anyone, we thank you now.
Share your thoughts, your interests, your news! Mail to:
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Gus Nolan: 50 South Randolph Avenue, Poughkeepsie NY 12601; gusnolan@aol.com
David Kammer: R.R.#1, Box 3300, Smithfield ME 04978; kammer@tdstelme.net
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ISSUE # 62
June 2001
THE HERITAGE PROJECT
Brian Desilets, Richard Foy, and Gus Nolan are cooperating with the Director of Archives at
Marist College in the work of creating an encyclopedic history of the college from its first days
to the present. The early phase of the project naturally deals with the arrival of the Marist
Brothers in Poughkeepsie and the early years of St. Ann's Hermitage. It includes Marist
Training School, followed by Marian College and the state approval. The natural follow-up
will be to explore the development of Marist College through the administrations of Brother
Paul Ambrose and Linus Richard Foy. Not to be overlooked will be the Nilus Donnelly
construction era. The project will culminate with the present administration of Dr. Dennis
Murray.
Brian, Richard, and Gus have assumed leadership in assembling visuals and audios regarding
the historical background of Marist College, particularly as influenced by Marists. They have
sent postals and e-mails to those on our newsletter list requesting photos and slides of those
extended years of Marist influence on the college. They are also looking to interview those
who have anecdotes and stories that capture the culture of those evolving years. If interested in
contributing to this project, notify Gus so that he can make arrangements with you for a taped
interview. The visuals and audios will be digitized and maintained as a heritage at the Marist
College Library. Some of that heritage will be shared through the Marists All newsletter and
the Marists All. web site. We would like this note to serve as a reminder of the request already
sent out by Gus Nolan. Gus is the one who is accepting the material for this project at the
following address: Prof. Augustine Nolan, School of Communications/Lowell Thomas
Center, Marist College, Poughkeepsie NY 12601.
The Three Presidents
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The principal architects of Marist College, at a picture taken during the dedication of the new
Fontaine Building in 2001, named to honor Brother Paul Ambrose (Fontaine), the founder of
Marist, who led the college from 1943 to 1958. He was followed by (Linus) Richard Foy
(1958 to 1979) who established the evening division and oversaw the transition from a
commuter college to a residential college and from an all-male institution to a co-ed college.
Dennis Murray , the President since 1979, engineered its spectacular growth from 2000 to
3500 students, transformed the campus via an ambitious building program and moved it to a
position where it has been ranked among the top 20 Northern Regional Universities by U. S.
News and "highly selective" by Barron's. Recently the Templeton Foundation cited Marist
as one of 300 institutions which have creatively combined character development with the
academic experience.
FROM TIM (Timothy Leo) FALKENSTEIN ('48): This week my brother-in-law Jack Nolty
(Esopus '47) and his wife Margaret, along with myself and my wife Jo, paid a visit to Br.
Bernard Nolan and the Marist retirement home in Miami. We had a wonderful time chatting
with him about old times and about names of the many brothers we remembered. He was a
most magnificent host and clued us in on the many questions we asked. We also paid a short
visit to Brother Paul Ambrose, and that also was great. Brother Paul gave us the February issue
of Marists All, and we enjoyed reading every page of it. Jack and I are very interested in the
newsletter and would like to be included in the mailings and in the e-mail notices.
During the summer Jo and I visit our five kids in Virginia, Texas, and New England. In
addition, we usually go somewhere in Europe on military space-a flights, staying at bases
when we can; this is one of our perks - retired Navy with 28 years of active duty. Jack will
send his address under separate cover. Mine is below. What a delight to receive your e-mail. I
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have already made contact with Phil Hannigan ('60) who has been residing in Ft. Myers for the
past two years. We had a great luncheon together, talking endlessly about our Marist years and
friends and about our second careers. Hope this will be the beginning of a great relationship.
(1828 Pine Valley Drive (#216), Ft. Myers FL 33907; 941-481-4815; tarnfo@aol.com)
FROM JOHN PERRING-MULLIGAN ('64): I was delighted to receive the most recent copy
of Marists All and embarrassed that I had forgotten to send our e-mail address:
perrmull@msn.com. Peg and I are looking forward to a month in Italy. We figure that we had
better go now in case Sean is out of office in October. I have not been to the Motherhouse
since 1973. It will be a bit of a pilgrimage for me and the first time Peg has been to Europe.
We hope to do our annual retreat in Assisi and then explore Rome, Florence, Venice and the
Amalfi coast. We continue to live in Downingtown. We give thanks everyday for our
blessings. We are part of a new parish in Downingtown; it is giving us a renewed sense of
church life.(175 Oak Street, Downingtown PA 19335; 610-873-3079)
FROM DICK COUTO ('60): At Emory and Henry College Ron Diss ('60) has won its
veryfirst Hope Award for the impact of his college teaching on the community. Ron enjoys a
remarkable reputation for teacher training in the central Appalachian region. He lives at 511
North Main Street, Rural Retreat VA 24368. I pass this information along primarily because I
think Ron would say that this recognition describes teaching as we were taught to teach within
the Marist tradition.
The following details the reasons for the award: "Anyone who knows Ron Diss knows of his
commitment to opening the doors of learning to children and to all people. As a member of the
Emory & Henry faculty, Ron has long worked to integrate service to others into his classroom.
At the end of a semester, his students leave knowing much about educational theory and
practice, but just as importantly they know what it means to use that knowledge for the good of
all children and for the good of entire communities. Students learn this by their experience at
the sites Ron carefully chooses for their service work. They also learn it through Ron's
example …
"Ron's vision of all children learning to read and being empowered to learn leads him each
semester to conduct training sessions for every Emory & Henry student who will be serving as
tutors in the public schools through the tutoring program … Today, growing from Ron's work,
more than fifty E & H students go weekly into the public schools of Washington and Smyth
counties to tutor young children in reading and math skills. In this service, lives are changed.
Because education is a part of hope, we honor Ron Diss as a person of hope."(2424 Trefoil
Way, Richmond VA 23235-3814; 804-330-9831; rcouto@richmond.edu)
FROM JERRY BYRNE ('60): Thank you so much for directing me to this wonderful web
site. I spent some hours yesterday reading every article and looking at every name and
recalling faces and memories from years ago. Even to know that Brother Stephen Urban is still
around was good news; he was Master of Juniors when I attended Marist Prep. My mother said
he had such a wonderful singing voice, and he did.
I found Ed Doran's email address. I will drop him a line this morning. The coincidences are
just too many. Ed is at St. Gerard Majella Church, my name is Gerard (named after that saint),
and for my last five retreats at Mt. St. Alphonsus in Esopus I have occupied room #425; and
that is the St. Gerard Majella room. Once again, thank you for drawing me to this web site. I
look forward to the news about things Marist and to visiting with old friends.(2217 Orchard
Dr., South Plainfield NJ 07080; 908-561-1267; Jerry_Byrne@us.schindler.com)
THE MARIST FAMILY INSTITUTE OF SPIRITUALITY
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We now have more details regarding the summer institute to be held again at Marist College,
this year from Thursday, July 5th (4:30 registration) to Sunday, July 8th, closing with lunch at
noon.
The first evening Larry Keogh will give the keynote address, "Prayer through the Life Cycle."
Morning presentations will be given by Brother Stephen Urban Minogue, Pat Zirkel, and Sister
Mary Jane Kenny, SMSM. On Friday and Saturday evenings there will be interactive sessions,
one by Father Ed Keel, SM, and another led by Gus Nolan and David Kammer.
Friday afternoon Barney Sheridan will lead a remembrance prayer service at the Marist
cemetery in Esopus. The liturgy will be held in the Esopus chapel that afternoon.
Brother Leo Shea, provincial of the Esopus province, will speak Saturday afternoon, followed
by liturgy in the renovated Marist College chapel. Farther Owen Lafferty will lead both
Eucharistic liturgies. To see a detailed Schedule of events for this institute, look at LATE
NEWS on our web site: www.ecommerce.marist.edu/foy/maristsal
The fee for meals and room is $350 for a couple and $225 for one person. This year bed linen,
blanket, pillow, and towels will be provided.
Please notify Larry Keogh about your attendance: ldkjmk@aol.com; FAX: 815-838-1577
17125 West 145th Street, Lockport IL 60441-2295; Phone: 815-838-1570
CAMP MARIST by MICHAEL FLYNN ('65):
Thank you for all your efforts through the years with Marists All ~ I relish the time spent
reading and re-reading all the issues since #1! I am the chairman of the advisory board for
Camp Marist. The board is now in its second year. In 1999 as part of the 50th anniversary year
for Camp Marist, Camp Director Brother Jim Halliday created this advisory board to help him
and the Marist Brothers provincial council chart a course for the future of Camp Marist. The
advisory board is excited about the fantastic opportunities we have to help the Marist Brothers
benefit from this wonderful asset in New Hampshire.
The advisory board is comprised of current camp staff members Brothers Roy George, Bill
Maske, Tom Lee and Jim Vagan, Monsignor Dermott Brennan, camp chaplain since 1965, and
camp staff alumni Mike Flynn (Christopher Columbus, Miami), Roy Speedling (Archbishop
Molloy), Bob Miressi (Mount St. Michael), and Tom Rubbone (St. Mary's, Manhasset).
The key message that came out of this year's spring advisory board meeting at Marist High in
Bayonne is that Camp Marist welcomes all members of the Marist Family. We would like to
remind the readers of Marists All that they and their families are invited to visit Camp Marist
and to share in the wonderful beauty of that special place on Lake Ossipee that holds such
wonderful memories for so many Marists. In a fall issue of the newsletter we hope to publish a
long list of summer visitors to the camp.
This summer visitors can look forward to seeing these staff members: Brothers Kenneth
Robert, Louis Richard, Gerry Brown, Jim Vagan, Bill Maske, Francis Thomas, Alphonse
Matuga, Valerian, Godfrey Robertson, Henry Sawicki, Pat McNulty, Ken Marino, Louis
Dubois, Denis Caverley, George DiCarluccio, Frank Farrell, Rob Clark, Mike Fisher, Scotty
Hughes, Fabian Mayor, Aquinas Richard, and Francis Ryan. Joe Bouchard ('63) has been a
staff member since l966 and is the Director of Activities.
The advisory board is looking to develop more opportunities for members of the Marist Family
to enjoythe use of the camp with a family campground and with new summer and winter
family lodges. All readers of Marists All are welcome to share their ideas via our web site.
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Even now you can instantaneously be in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire by
going to www.cmarist.org - the Camp Marist web site. Alumni of the camp can share
memories and contact fellow alumni through this site, and of course, future campers and their
parents can find out all they want to know about Camp Marist at that site.(5850 S.W. 53rd
Terrace, Miami FL 33155; Michael.E.Flynn@usa.xerox.com)
FROM MICHAEL MURPHY ('76): I am a 1970 grad of Christ the King and I was a Marist
candidate in the early 70's. I even made it to the novitiate in Cold Spring in 1976. I have warm
memories of living at Christ the King, Bayonne, Taconic Lodge in Cold Spring, and Esopus. I
have renewed my contact by browsing to see names of old friends and acquaintances, who's
around and who's not. It is nice trip down memory lane. I live in South Jersey and teach Senior
English at Southern Regional High School, the district school for Long Beach Island. I've
made a nice home here. Contact from old friends is always welcome! (200 Compass Road,
Manahawkin NJ 08050; surfmurph@aol.com)
FROM JIM FRIEL ('52): I just came from a dinner with a number of the Marist alumni and
their spouses. We meet a couple of times a year. This time we met at La Grange, in West Islip,
on Montauk Highway. It's a great place. Tom and Agnes Murphy arranged the get-together.
Jim and Ginny Gargan were there, as were Jack and Janet Meehan, and Paul and Marilyn
Stengel. Tom and Kathy Hourican usually join us, but Tom had a Lacrosse event. I had to
leave my wife Kate Kelly in Northport because I joined the others after a professional meeting.
I have to make a correction in a previous message about Metro-Mac that I sent to the
newsletter. Jim Gargan was one of the founding members of the first alumni group outside of
Marist College. Jim wrote the document to set up this very successful group. I might add that
our class of l956 (year of graduation from the college), also called the class of l952 (the year of
investiture), is holding its 45th anniversary meeting at Marist College during Homecoming
Week, October l2th. The organizers are classmates: Bernie (Joe) Woods, Jack Duggan, Jim
Madden, Harry Henkey, Joe McKiernan, and myself. Marist College and the Marist Brothers
have been very cooperative in helping us organize the event. We are having some problems,
though, in contacting some members of the class. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Please
spread the word. (20 Vail Street, Northport NY 11768-3038; 516-757-7506;
frielkelly@aol.com)
FROM BR. SEAN SAMMON, V.G. ('66): Many thanks for the news about Frank Moran. As I
read through the notice I could not help but think how blessed our Marist movement has been
by so many who have captured Marcellin's spirit and have lived it out in so many different
ways.
Within the last year FMS Echo has been revamped to include the wide Marist Family. Many
who look forward to the Marists All publication might enjoy a piece from Echo from time to
time. If you do not get it already, please let me know and I'll have you put on the mailing list.
Other than the day to day, life seems to move on much too quickly. I hosted family members in
Rome recently. Folks here were so very welcoming that everyone in the family was touched by
the hospitality. As I get older, that quality of our life becomes more and more important.
(Fratelli Maristi, Piazzale M. Champagnat, 2; C.P. 10250; 00144, Roma; ssammon@aol.com)
FROM BR. JOE BELANGER ('43): The annual St. Marcellin Champagnat dinner and lecture
in Catholic Studies was held at Marist College April 2nd. Some 200 people were at the lecture
and about 90 people were at the dinner. Dr. Peter Steinfels spoke on the Catholic Church in
2025. The major point, expectedly, was the growing role of the laity. Steinfels is
knowledgeable, articulate, and friendly. His only regret was missing the NCAA men's
basketball final, but his wife was taping it for him! I must thank all of you who have made this
annual dinner and lecture possible.
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On another very important note: We can provide a free meal each day to the hungry simply by
clicking daily on the Hunger Project web site. At www.thehungersite.com go down to the P.S.
and the "Click here" and then on to "Donate Free Food." It takes only two minutes a day. Last
year, The Hunger Site supporters donated over 167 million cups of food to the hungry -- just
from clicking. It only takes a minute and doesn't cost a thing.(Marist College, Poughkeepsie
NY 12601; 845-575-3040; joseph.belanger@marist.edu)
FROM BR. FRANCIS KLUG ('44): It is great to see a couple of my classmates from the
novitiate, scholasticate, and second novitiate, Brian and Richie, making such significant
contributions to the success of Marists All. I enjoyed the last issue; congratulations on another
job well done. Thank you for making this venture such a successful reality. It is obviously
inspiring to so many people. A final reason for this message: fmsaug@triplet.net will close
down forever at the end of the month. After that, I'll be spending the summer in Esopus,
where lenarchive@aol.com, if it is still operating, will be where I can be contacted. My contact
down in Brownsville? I'll leave that matter till September when I arrive. Marist Community,
1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Georgia, has closed.
So, after many, many years the Marist Brothers are no longer in Georgia. Gene and Joe
(Brothers Richard Michel and Joe Teston) will leave their home state and move to a retirement
home with Brother Bernard Nolan in Miami. Brother Luke Driscoll will be at the Mount in the
Bronx. Brother Jimmy Brady will take up residence with Brother Chanel Lambert in another
retirement home in Miami. And finally Augusta's last Brother Director, Frank Klug, will make
his computer skills available to St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville, Texas.
JOHN (James Austin) McALEER ('42) from Ruth: I want you to know how much the
reconnecting with "the brothers" meant to John. When he left the order after fifteen years it
was a little like the last scene in THE NUN'S STORY. So many of you have sent notes and
cards to me and my family relating memories you have of John. They help us to keep smiles
on our faces as we walk through this journey of grief. We are grateful for that.
I was asked to write something for Marists All from my point of view. First, I want to quote
from his obituary which my daughter wrote: "John's lifelong dedication to both teaching and
learning continues with his anatomical donation to University of Kansas Medical Center. His
life was filled with his devotion to family and faith; his love of art, music, politics, sports and
nature; his commitment to justice and peace; and his enjoyment of 38 years of service and
fellowship in a 12-step program." John made a difference in the lives of many people,
including my own. We are thankful that so many made that known to him in the last year of
his life.
John was the most supportive husband any woman could wish for. I went back to school in
the seventies to finish a degree I had been working on for a long time. It was a time when the
"non-traditional aged student" was being welcomed back to college. I went to school with
several "older" women whose spouses felt very threatened by their action. Not John! He not
only helped me along the way but insisted that I continue on to graduate school as soon as I
had the BA in hand! When my spiritual journey took a path in a different direction, he was so
encouraging without giving up his own convictions. And when, much to my surprise, I found
myself on the road to ordination to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church, John was the
most staunch and understanding supporter I had. He used to tell people, "I married this nice
Irish Catholic girl from Boston and she turns out to be a WASP priest!" In his retirement he
designated himself to be my "spear carrier." He called himself the "Vatican Observer" at all
Episcopal functions he attended and enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the now
Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. I miss him terribly but thank God every day for
his presence in my life. And, I thank God for all his Marist brothers who keep me and our
family in prayer. (8700 Metcalf (l02-E), Overland Park KS 66212; fatherruth@earthlink.net)
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FROM GERRY MILLER ('64): How wonderful it feels to be remembered and discovered
after 36 years! I went onto the internet at the Marist page because my Lenten resolve was to
track down those who have had distinctive influences on my life. Of course, most of those on
the list ended up being Marist or ex-Marist. What a delight to receive your e-mail! The
synchronicity of the Spirit? I have located and am in contact with Brothers Tim Brady, Ken
Hogan, and Francis Zaglauer.
All told, my Marist preparation spanned seven years, and those seven years made a
monumental impact on me. I was in Cold Spring at Marist Hall, 1960-63; Tyngsboro at St.
Joseph Novitiate, 1963-65 and Poughkeepsie at Marist College, 1965-67.
I have been living and working as an organizational psychologist in Washington DC for the
last 25 years. I have a small training firm headquartered in DC. I am still teaching, but in the
corporate, adult educational arena. I have attached one of our "propaganda sheets" to give an
idea of what troubles I have been bringing to the business world.(218 M Street, SW,
Washington DC 20024-3602; 202-554-8334; gvm@radix.net)
FMS UPDATE an electronic publication out of Rome, on May 5, 2001 carried the following
summary of Leonard's Marist life, along with an accompanying picture.
On March 31, 2001, Brother Leonard Voegtle, former Provincial of Esopus, then
Procurator and General Councilor, died of a rare blood disease. He was 67. As a
young Brother, Leonard gained a distinguished doctorate in Canon Law from
Catholic University in Washington DC. That achievement laid a strong foundation
of careful scholarship in his life and work.
In the upheaval in the Church and Religious Life following Vatican II, he was
called to be Provincial at the early age of 34, and those six years were a challenge
to his courage and skills as a Marist leader. His vision and prudence were of great
assistance to the Province as it negotiated those historic times. And that experience
further served him well during his years as Procurator and Councilor in
Rome. Unfortunately, ill health led to his resignation from those roles before the
end of his mandate.
He then undertook a ministry in canon law, serving as a member of the Marriage
Tribunal in the Archdiocese of Newark NJ. Even more importantly, he gave himself
unstintingly to the promotion of a deeper understanding of Marcellin Champagnat
and our Marist patrimony throughout the English-speaking world. He did this
through conferences, writings and historical research. In particular he led the
Manziana groups each year on their pilgrimage to the Hermitage, and he wrote the
first of what was to be a three-volume history of the Marist Brothers in the USA. In
the years just before his death he was the official archivist of the Marist Brothers in
the United States.
FROM JOHN DILLON ('61): I am finally making contact through the web so that I can
enter the 21st century with Marists All. You may retire my postal address and update it with:
JunnyD@aol.com. I had been planning to contact you much earlier. I had thought out a real
snappy, witty message with bon mots, recollections, et al., but then I got word of Brother
Leonard's passing. That sure snapped my sense of humor back into reality.
I had Leonard as a teacher at "The Prep" in Esopus in the late 50's. I had always been in awe
of him for his intellect while I was a student. I was sort of intimidated by his cerebral 'handle'
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on life. I \ was just too unsophisticated to appreciate him while I was under his tutelage. Only
years later did I fully realize how unique and wonderful he was, and what a vast sense of
humor he possessed. How dedicated he was to the Marist life!
I will never comprehend just how he was able to maintain the connections that he had made
during the 45 plus years that was his teaching career. His letter writing connections to ex-
Marists was myriad. I am sure that there are many, many more guys who will miss him and
his wry/dry sense of humor and views. Even during the medical treatment he had been
undergoing, his spirit and ironic comments were equally apparent. He sure was one of a kind,
and I know that the Marists have lost a true original. List me alphabetically with others who
shall miss him.(346 1/2 Westminster Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90020; 323-938-7224;
JunnyD@aol.com)
BROTHER LEONARD VOEGTLE - REMEMBERED & CELEBRATED:
Tom Crimmins ('63): I was at Leonard Voegtle's funeral. Philip Robert gave a beautiful
picture of an extraordinary man. When they started singing Salve Regina a flood of great
memories came back. I remember when Lenny taught us 10th grade World History up in
Esopus. He came to class one day and said that he had been analyzing how Albany prepared
essays for the regents exams. He said that he had detected a pattern. He suggested that we
prepare an essay on feudalism because, according to his calculations, it was "due." Needless
to say, when we opened our regents exam in June, there it was. We looked up at him and he
just gave us that knowing smile. He never forgot to send "birthday and anniversary letters."
He always found the time in his busy schedule to keep up with his friends. He was a special
man.
Br. Philip Robert ('48): If I succeeded in capturing the person of Leonard in my (eulogy), I
am more convinced than ever that it was thanks to the inspiration and guidance of the Holy
Spirit. I even amazed myself, when it was all over, at some of the thoughts expressed. So, I
feel that I was truly only a vehicle. If we can keep the spirit of Leonard alive, then I feel it
will have been very worthwhile.
Msgr Joseph Roth, D.D., V.G. ('56): Thanks for giving me the news. I am certainly saddened
by the passing of such a fine Marist Brother. May Our Lord grant him eternal rest. May Our
Lady lead him to her Son. I will offer a Mass for the repose of his soul this week.
Dan St. Jacques ('52): In my opinion there was no one of greater intellect than Len Voegtle. I
remember him playing three-wall handball and calculating in his head the angle to use to
return the ball. I was a good student of that. Len inspired many of us to study. After leaving
the congregation, I completed my college and taught as a part time professor at a local
university.
Mike Kelly ('50): Thanks for the info on Len - one of the best people I have had the pleasure
of knowing. We exchanged e-mail just a short time before he died. Terrible loss, but I am
sure that he is in a better place.
Tom McGovern (66): I just read sadly about Len's death, but Philip Robert's reflections
brought the smile back to my face. I was often a recipient of those GIFTS of which his life
seemed boundless. Thank you for gathering us and for keeping us abreast of so many things.
Sr. Virginia Connors, S.S.S. Brother Lenny was so VERY good to my brother Tom. Len and I
corresponded for several years; his letters were always interesting. I'll send a memorial.
Bob Holm ('60): Brother Leonard is truly in residence with St. Marcellin and the heavenly
host.
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Ed Cashin ('46): Leonard was a unique combination, a near genius and a good guy, very
caring and unselfish. He made his mark in and on the history of the Marists.
Tom Nolan ('64): I was sorry to hear of Len's death. He always managed to remember my
birthday and send a card, as I know he did with many others. He was a man who cared about
the monks and the history of the Marist Brothers, and he cared very deeply about God. He
was a true scholar. I regret that I can't attend the wake or the funeral. My prayers will be with
him.
FROM PAT GALLAGHER ('53): I have gone to the wonderful M.A. web page a number of
times, but somehow I forgot to check out the February issue of Marists All. So when I finally
did so, it was eerie reading Lenny's words there, knowing that he had already passed to the
incomparable rewards of a life spent for others.
The events of the past few weeks, culminating in the news about Lenny, got me to face the
inevitable fact that as "this band of brothers" grows older, announcements such as these will
come with more frequent regularity. I am celebrating my 65th birthday this week, and so
many times in the past that event was accompanied by most pleasant and informative notes
from Lenny. He will always remain in my mind "that patient listener and supportive guide,"
in the words of the eulogy.
Back in the late 60s and early 70s when I was facing the major decision of a dramatic change
in life style, Lenny listened, and he guided. My decision was made with total support from
him; he made what I had foreseen as so difficult a transition, one that was facilitated by his
kindness and help. I will never forget what his aid meant to me in getting me started on a new
life. That was a great gift to me.
Yes, Lenny was a gift, as the eulogy so beautifully described. I am the better for his presence
in my life. He also did much to restore and improve my respect for St. Marcellin by making
the founder so much more personal. I now regret the manner in which the founder's thoughts
were presented to us in the novitiate and wonder what effect the newer version would have
had on me.
As I celebrate my 65th, I'll go for a long and quiet walk in the woods, and hope to end up in a
very meditative mood amid the burgeoning signs of spring here on our mountain side. It's
time for Mary and me to keep assessing what we want to do with the time remaining to us.
We want to travel: so for my birthday we'll be taking a river cruise in May from Amsterdam
to Vienna. Mary, who previously decided to travel to Egypt, will be going to India this
November, two places I prefer not to see. I am active on the advisory board of an
international consulting firm dealing with the democratization of foreign police forces; this
might end up with some international travel, -- to Kosovo, Macedonia, South Africa -- not
exactly the greatest locations.
I am teaching a Latin class to some home schoolers and will start a class in English for
Mexican workers. Mary and I judge the art and literature contests at the local school and we
offer the b'n'b to special visitors coming to the school.
The children are doing very well, with Sean married and living in LA; Karen, married and
living in Fairfax, Virginia; and Beth, at 25 and in LA, still looking to find her role in media
production. We are blessed with good health, and Mary and I share a loving relationship that
provides daily satisfaction and growing support for each other.(Wild Geese Inn, P.O. Box 60,
Indian Valley VA 24105; 540-789-4056; gpatrick@swva.net)
FROM FRANK SUTTON ('59): In Vermont this is our week off from classes. I made a
quick visit to my mom in Ft. Lauderdale where she celebrated her 90th birthday. The e-mail
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list on the web site is great; now all I have to do is use it.(P.O. Box 142, Manchester Center
VT 05255; 802-362-1165; suttonpl@sover.net)
GMC PICNIC: Mount St. Michael ~ Saturday, September 15th ~ Noon to 5 p.m.
We give you advanced notice. The Greater Marist Community picnic will take place again at
Mt. St. Michael in the Bronx, near the Mt. Vernon border at Nereid and Murdock Avenues.
The gathering will occur on Saturday, September 15th ~ noon to 5 p.m. Come with spouse
and children or come alone. Bring your own beverage and a potluck dish for a shared meal.
All Brothers are most welcome to join in. Thanks to the director and to the community of the
Mount for welcoming us. We look forward to seeing many of you. We have been having this
picnic each year on the second Saturday after Labor Day. Mark September 15th on your
calendar!
FROM MICHAEL (Michael Vincent) KELLY ('50 ): Particularly memorable in year 2000
was the reunion of the group of '50 at Marist College. It was amazing to see what 50 years
has wrought and to recall all of those happy memories of the past half-century. We look
forward to seeing those who could not make the reunion at the next one in the year 2050! We
are pleased to tell all that our drive back to Burbank was trouble free and enjoyable, as we
adapted to the company of our one-year-old twin grandsons!
I retired last year but have yet to experience a slower lifestyle. Among the activities that help
me keep busy is teaching two engineering ethics courses at California State University. In
some respects, it is like teaching applied morality to students who are very interested in and
responsive to the issues. We are always delighted to share our beautiful weather with anyone
who comes our way. One who accepted that invitation is Father Joe McKenna, my cousin
from Ireland. He has become our new parish priest. Thanks for all you do to keep the good
words flowing to those who are happy to hear them.(2400 North Orchard Drive, Burbank CA
91504; 818-840-8993; jkelly@ix.netcom.com)
DECEASED As we go to press, we have word that Brother Adolph Leo Labonte ('44)
died at 1 am, Saturday, May 19, 2001. He had been at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx. After
many years teaching stateside, Adolph spent his middle years helping at various Marist
mission posts throughout the world. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday,
May 22nd at the Mount. Burial was in Esopus Wednesday, May 23rd. May Brother Adolph
rest in peace.
Editors' Note: FINANCIAL REPORT ~ MARISTS ALL
We have not reported on our finances since last summer, probably because we have not been
hurting! Last summer in the period of time when we were preparing issue #55 for July 2000,
we received contributions of $720. Over the six issues prior to this one, contributions have
averaged only $120 per issue, and during the preparation of this issue we have not received
anything. Yet we have not been concerned because our balances, though dropping, have been
healthy. They have ranged from $2009 down to $1443. When we were mailing to everyone
on our list, we were averaging expenses of $330 per issue; after we went on line in January
2001, we mailed only to those for whom we have no functioning e-mail address. Now our
expenses are averaging $220 per issue. All expenses are those directly related to publishing
and mailing the newsletter. Our equipment expenses, travel expenses, and all other personal
expenses have never been included in the expenses of the newsletter. Of course, we are
extremely grateful for the support we have had over more than fourteen years. We wish we
had been more faithful in promptly acknowledging every single contribution. If we have
missed anyone, we thank you now.
Share your thoughts, your interests, your news! Mail to:
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Gus Nolan: 50 South Randolph Avenue, Poughkeepsie NY 12601; gusnolan@aol.com
David Kammer: R.R.#1, Box 3300, Smithfield ME 04978; kammer@tdstelme.net