John A.M. Walsh, O.S.A.

1902 – 1993 (November 9)

John Augustine Mary Walsh was born on August 8, 1902 in Lawrence, Massachusetts, to Thomas F. Walsh and Ellen McCarthy. Baptized on October 10 he attended Saint Mary's parish school, graduating in 1915. After a year at Lawrence High School he enrolled at Saint John's Preparatory School, Danvers, Massachusetts, and graduated in June, 1919. At the age of 17 John Walsh enrolled at Villanova College, Villanova, Pennsylvania, as a postulant and began his novitiate. He professed simple vows on June 28, 1921 and three veers later solemn vows. His college and theology courses were completed at Villanova and on August 29, 1926 he was ordained a priest in Saint Thomas of Villanova Church by Denis Cardinal Dougherty, Archbishop of Philadelphia. During the academic year 1926-1927 he took graduate courses at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC.

Father Walsh was briefly assigned to Malvern Preparatory School, Malvern, Pennsylvania, and Saint Rita's High School in Chicago, Illinos, where he began many years teaching the classics, Greek and Latin, as well as religion. From 1927-1947 Father taught at Saint Augustine High School, San Diego, California; Augustinian Academy on Staten Island, New York, where he was for a time director of studies and later rector of postulants; and Villanova Preparatory School, Ojai, California, where he was headmaster. From 1947 to 1959 Father Walsh taught theology at Villanova University and Greek at Saint Mary's Hall, on the university campus. From 1959 to 1965 he engaged in parish work as assistant pastor and later administrator at Holy Rosary Church, Lawrence, Massachusetts.In 1965 he was transferred to Saint Rita's Parish in Philadelphia where he was appointed prior and associate pastor until transferred in 1968 to Saint Mary's Parish in Lawrence, where he served as associate pastor. He retired in 1976 to Our Mother of Good Counsel Monastery on the campus of Merrimack College, North Andover, Massachusetts.A quiet and reserved person, his health began to fail following the deaths of his younger brothers, Father Thomas Walsh, O.S.A. and Brother Joseph Patrick Walsh. C.F.X., both in 1990. 

In July, 1993 Father was transferred to the health care facility at Saint Thomas Monastery on the campus of Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania. It was here on this date that he died peacefully at the age of 91.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on November 15, 1993 at the Collegiate Church of Christ the Teacher, Merrimack College, North Andover, Massachusetts. Interment was in the Augustinian plot of Saint Mary's Cemetery, Lawrence.
 

George S. Walker, O.S.A.

1882 – 1974 (September 14)

George Solomon Walker was born in Cambridge, New York, on March 21, 1882, one of seven children of Solomon Walker and Mary Ann Buckley. He was baptized on September 29, 1892 by Father Thomas Field, O.S. A. at Saint Joseph Church, Greenwich, New York. He entered the novitiate at Villanova on July 5, 1906, and professed simple vows on July 5, 1907. He was sent to Rome for studies at Saint Monica’s College in 1908 and made solemn profession there on October 19, 1910. He was ordained in Rome by Cardinal Ceppetelli on July 25, 1913.

After his return from Rome that same year, as World War I was about to break out, he was named Rector of Postulants at Villanova. In 1915, he was appointed Master of Professed and Novices until 1918 when he became Rector of the Mission Band, a post he held until 1934. In his day he held a nation-wide reputation as preacher.

In September, 1934, Father Walker was named prior and pastor of Saint Augustine's in Troy, N.Y., and it was here that his heart remained. He was also pastor and prior in several other parishes, including Saint Laurence, Lawrence, MA beginning in 1941; Immaculate Conception, Hoosick Falls, NY beginning in 1947; and Saint Joseph, Greenwich, NY in 1953.

From 1956 to 1962 he served as Prior at Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg. In 1962 he was transferred to Saint Nicholas in the Bronx where he was assistant pastor until his retirement due to failing health and blindness.

The week before his death he was transferred to Rosemont Manor and here he ended his labors, at the age of 92, September 14, 1974. At the time of his death he had been the oldest member of the Province. 

The Funeral Mass was offered at Villanova on September 17th. The body was then taken to Saint Nicholas of Toletine the following day for a second Mass, and finally to Saint Augustine, Troy, where the Mass of Christian Burial was offered on September 19th. Father Walker was buried, at his request, in the Community Plot of Saint John’s Cemetery, Troy.

Father Walker was best known as a preacher and missioner. Gifted with a powerfully resonant voice and an easy flow of language and retentive memory, he became well-known and much sought after in pulpits throughout the country.

James D. Waldron, O.S.A.

1830 – 1905 (May 27)

James David Waldron was born in London, England, on November 19, 1830, the son of William Waldron and Mary Stanton, and a first cousin of Father Patrick Stanton, O.S.A. James immigrated to the United States in 1851 and, on November 13, 1856, entered the novitiate at Villanova, PA. He made his simple profession on October 15, 1857, and the following year became a citizen of the United States. He completed his studies for the priesthood at Villanova, and was ordained to the priesthood in May, 1861 by Bishop James Wood.

After ordination, Father Waldron was assigned to Villanova where, three years later he was appointed prior of the community. He was also named pastor of Saint Denis' in nearby Ardmore. In 1868, he served as rector in Cambridge, N.Y., and the following year offered the first Mass in Greenwich, N.Y. He returned to Villanova as pastor and opened a new frame church there in July, 1872. He later served as prior and pastor at Hoosick Falls and Greenwich, both in N.Y.

In 1886, Father Waldron was elected first definitor by the Provincial Chapter. In October, 1889, he was notified of his selection by the Prior General to be Rector Provincial at the resignation from the office of Prior Provincial of Father Christopher McEvoy. Father Waldron was elected Prior Provincial on July 22, 1890. During his term of office he reinstituted the Province retreats at Villanova, obtained canonical foundations for Chestnut Hill, Atlantic City and Immaculate Conception and Saint Laurence in Lawrence, Massachusetts. He returned the parish at Berwyn to the archdiocese and accepted formal charge of the parish at Bryn Mawr.

Father Waldron completed his term as Provincial in 1894, and spent the remaining years of his life at Saint Augustine's in Philadelphia, PA. He died there on May 27, 1905 at the age of 75. He is buried in the vault at Saint Augustine's.

John J. Vrana, O.S.A.

1906 – 1983 (June 24)

John Joseph Vrana, the son of John Vrana and Josephine Shimek, was born in the Bronx, New York, on December 7, 1906. He became a postulant of the Order at Villanova in 1920, and after completion of high school, was received into the novitiate on June 25, 1924. He professed temporary vows on June 26, 1925, and solemn vows on June 26, 1928. Upon graduation from Villanova College in 1928 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy, he studied theology at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C., and was ordained to the priesthood at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on June 9, 1931.

Father Vrana's first assignment was to Saint Thomas of Villanova Monastery, Villanova, Pa, where he taught in the College from 1931 to 1961. In 1934, he received a Master of Arts degree from Villanova, and in 1938 was named head of the Graphics Department in the Villanova School of Technology. In 1942 he was awarded at Master in Fine Arts from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Villanova he created and directed Villanova Press and was the liaison officer among architects, contractors, and administrators of the University in the erection of twelve new buildings. From 1942 to 1956 he oversaw the photography for College and sports events.

In 1961, Father Vrana became the founding pastor of the Parish of The Resurrection of Our Lord in Dania, Florida, and was also named prior there. He also assisted in the design and construction of the first buildings of Biscayne College in Miami. In 1968 he was assigned to Our Lady of the Angels Church in Jacksonville, FL, as prior and pastor, and in 1971, he was appointed prior of Saint Thomas of Villanova Monastery, Villanova. After several months, however, he was appointed pastor of Saint Mary's Church, Waterford, N.Y. In 1979 he was retired to the community at Saint John the Baptist Church, Schaghticoke, N.Y., where he died on June 24, 1983.

An affable man of gentle good humor, Father Vrana consistently created an atmosphere of warmth and genuine care both in Augustinian community and among the people he served. Although in painful ill health in his final years, he valiantly presided at daily Eucharist and delivered moving homilies which sprang from the depths of a soul nourished by faithful prayer. Up to the end he also shared his many talents in fine arts and graphics with local Augustinian communities and laity.Father Vrana is buried in the Augustinian plot at Saint John Cemetery, Troy, N.Y. 

Walter P. Vogel, O.S.A.

1935 – 2007 (April 28)

Walter Paul Vogel was born on March 7, 1935 on Ecke Ranch, near Encinitas, California, one of two sons and two daughters of Ruth Maurer and Walter Vogel. He entered the seminary in 1954 and took simple vows in the Augustinian Order in 1955. He was ordained a priest on February 9, 1963. His first years as a priest were dedicated to the educational ministry, serving at Bonner High School in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, St. Augustine High School in San Diego, Villanova Prep School in Ojai, Central Catholic High School in Modesto, and Woodside Priory near San Francisco. While he was still a high school teacher he was introduced to the Cursillo movement and became one of its most sought after ministers and spiritual directors. At the same time he began a hobby which turned into a passion - cooking. 

For a brief period Fr. Walter was a prison chaplain, and for the last six years of his life, served others as a parish priest. He was a much-loved servant-minister both in Ontario, and particularly at Our Mother of Good Counsel, Los Angeles. Fr. Walter passed away on April 28, four days after he was involved in a very serious automobile accident. A Memorial Mass celebrating his entrance into a new life took place at Our Mother of Good Counsel Church on May 5. He was buried in Holy Cross Cemetery, San Diego.
 

Bernard T. Visocky, O.S.A.

1924 – 1994 (May 11)

Bernard Thomas Visocky, one of six sons and two daughters, was born on December 15, 1924 in Lilly, PA to Michael Joseph Visocky and Olean Pikus. Bernard was baptized and confirmed in the Greek Catholic Rite at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Portage, Pennsylvania. He attended the local public school in Lilly, until the family moved to Altoona, Pa., where he completed his elementary education at Saint John's Parochial School in Altoona. After graduation in 1948 from the public high school, Bernard enlisted in the navy, and upon completing basic training he attended the sub-marine school in New London, Connecticut. After four years of active duty with the Atlantic fleet and two years in the reserve he was discharged with the rank of petty officer. In 1954, Bernard resumed his educational career at Pennsylvania State University. He graduated in 1957 with a degree in clinical psychology. While living in Baltimore, MD, he came in contact with the Order as a result of his acquaintance with Father John Lipp, O.S.A., a teacher at Archbishop Carroll High School who was assisting at his parish on the weekends. In September 1960, Bernard was received as a novice at Our Mother of Good Counsel Novitiate in New Hamburg, New York. On September 10, 1961, he professed simple vows and three years later solemn vows. After courses in philosophy at Saint Mary's Hall, Villanova, he began theological studies at Augustinian College in Washington, D.C., and during summers took graduate courses in clinical psychology at The Catholic University. On October 29, 1965 Bernard was ordained a priest at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC. 

Father Visocky's first assignment in 1966, was as an instructor at Archbishop Carroll High School, Washington, D.C. After two years at Carroll, he re-enlisted in the Navy as chaplain. For the next 16 years he served at the Subic Bay Naval Station in the Philippines, in Vietnam, where he suffered a back injury as a result of a jeep accident, and at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital. In 1984, with the rank of commander, he retired from the Navy. 

In the years following his naval service Father Visocky became chaplain at Holy Family Academy in Baltic, CT. Beginning in 1985, he served as associate pastor at many of our parishes: Saint Patrick's, Cambridge, N.Y., Holy Rosary, Lawrence, Mass., Saint John the Baptist, Schaghticoke, and Saint Augustine, Troy, both in N.Y.., and finally at Saint Thomas of Villanova, Rosemont, Pa. In 1992, with the discovery of a cancer condition, he was transferred to Saint Thomas Monastery, Villanova. While undergoing treatment he served for a short time as chaplain at Saint Joseph Villa in Flourtown. Father Bernard's patient acceptance of suffering was a source of inspiration to all.

He died peacefully on May 11, 1994, at the Mercy Haverford Hospital, Havertown, Pa., at the age of 64. On May 16 Prior Proivincial John Hagen was principal celebrant of the Mass at Saint Thomas of Villanova Church. Father James Warne, O.S.A. preached. At the request of his family, Father Visocy's funeral was conducted at the cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona, Pa. Internment followed the Mass on May 18 in the family plot of Calvary Cemetery, Altoona. 

Amedee J. Viger, O.S.A.

1875 – 1915 (February 2)

Amedee Joseph Viger was born in Montreal, Canada, on August 31, 1875, to Amedee Viger and Cordelia Desrochers. While still a child, his family immigrated to the United States and settled in Lansingburgh, New York. Amedee was confirmed there in Saint Augustine Church in 1888 and was educated at Whipple Public School and Saint Augustine’s Parochial School. He attended La Salle Institute before enrolling at Villanova College in 1893. He entered the novitiate at Villanova on May 4, 1896 and made his profession the following year. Following his studies, he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Edmund Prendergast at Villanova on January 19, 1901. 

Father Viger’s first assignment was to the Province Mission Band with residence at Lawrence, Massachusetts. On June 15th of the same year, however, he assumed duties at Saint James Parish, Carthage, N.Y., where he had special care for the French-speaking who had settled there. Two years later he was called to Villanova, where he became Master of postulants at Saint Rita’s Hall. Eight months later he was appointed Master of both novices and professed with a dispensation from Rome for the office of Novice Master due to his age. At the start of the school year in the Fall of 1904, he also taught moral theology and liturgy. In 1906 he was elected a definitor of the Province. It was during his term of office as Master of Professsed that Corr Hall was built and first occupied in the spring of 1914.

Father Viger returned, feeling unwell, to Villanova on January 6, 1915, following a visit to his parents who had moved back to Montreal. He was diagnosed with typhoid fever and was rushed to Saint Joseph Hospital, Philadelphia. Though he was responding well to treatment and was preparing to return to Villanova, he died suddenly on Sunday, February 2, 1915 at 39 years of age.

His funeral Mass was celebrated on February 5, 1915, by his close friend, Father Francis Tourscher, O.S.A., with the Prior Povincial, Father Nicholas Murphy, O.S.A. preaching, after which he was buried in the Community Cemetery at Villanova. 

Father Viger was mourned as an exceptional man, deeply spiritual, strong, wise, courteous and kind.

James E. Vaughan, O.S.A.

1864 – 1900 (December 24)

James Edward Vaughan, son of James Vaughan and Anna Doherty, was born in London, England, on April 6, 1864 and was baptized eleven days later in the Church of St. Mary, St. John’s Wood, London. He immigrated to the United States with his family the following year and grew up in the Parish of Our Mother of Sorrows, in Philadelphia. James entered the novitiate at Villanova, Pennsylvania, on September 2, 1887, was professed on the same date in 1888 and was solemnly professed on September 3, 1891. He was ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Patrick J. Ryan in Philadelphia’s Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul on June 11, 1892.

In 1893, Father Vaughan became the first associate at St. Denis Parish in Havertown, Pa., and later that year, until 1897, was assigned to Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill. He was then transferred to Mechanicville and then to Schaghticoke, both in New York.

Father died in Philadelphia’s German Hospital, following an appendicitis operation, on Monday, December 24, 1900 at the age of 36. He was survived by both of his parents, who died, however, just a short time later, his mother on January 6, 1901, and his father on January 20, 1901. 

Father Vaughan was buried at the Community Cemetery at Villanova on December 27, 1900.

Nicholas J. Vasey, O.S.A.

1875 – 1931 (November 10)

Nicholas Joseph Vasey was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on April 12, 1875, one of three children of Bartholomew Vasey and Margaret Curley. He attended local public elementary and high schools, after which he enrolled at Villanova College. He obtained his B.A. degree in June, 1894, and the following September entered the novitiate at Villanova. He made his simple profession on September 19, 1895, and solemn profession in 1898. Following completion of theological studies at Villanova, he was ordained to the priesthood by Apostolic Delegate Sebastian Martinelli, O.S.A. at Villanova on September 29, 1898.

In August, 1899, Father Vasey was appointed Vice President and Prefect of Discipline at Villanova. This was the beginning of sixteen years spent at the college as faculty member, treasurer, procurator, and trustee. In 1903 he was assigned to the Province Mission Band and remained in this ministry for fifteen months, after which he returned to Villanova. In 1906 he became a definitor of the Province under Father Martin Geraghty. In 1914, with the election of Father Nicholas Murphy as Prior Provincial, he was appointed provincial socius and secretary. In 1914 he became rector of Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill.

In 1918, Father Vasey was elected Prior Provincial at the 11th Provincial Chapter, and served in that office until 1926. During this time of great expansion of the Order in the United States, thirteen new foundations were made, several of them to provide for the ever-increasing number of candidates seeking admission to the Province, such as Augustinian College in Washington, D.C., Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, N.Y., and Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, N.Y. Malvern Prep was also begun as a school separate from Villanova College during this period. In California, both Saint Augustine High School in San Diego, and Villanova Prep in Ojai, were founded, as well as Saint Thomas Parish, Ojai and Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish, Hollywood. In the Midwest, Cascia Hall was begun in Tulsa, OK., as well as three additional parishes.
 
At the conclusion of his term as Prior Provincial, Father Vasey became pastor and prior of Our Mother of Consolation, Chestnut Hill. In 1931 he attended the General Chapter in Rome as a definitor from the Province. On Tuesday, November 10, just three weeks after his return, he died at the age of 56 at Chestnut Hill Hospital, during surgery for an emergency intestinal disorder.
 
A Solemn Requiem Mass was offered on Saturday, November 14, 1931 at the Chestnut Hill Church by classmate, Father Francis Tourscher, O.S.A. Over 200 priests and 100 sisters were in attendance. Denis Cardinal Dougherty and his auxiliary, Bishop Gerald O’Hara, were also present.

Father Vasey was buried at Villanova in the Community Cemetery. Vasey Hall, the first Commerce and Finance building at Villanova University and now an academic building and home to the Villanova theatre, was named in his honor.

John A. van der Beek, O.S.A.

1925 – 2011 (April 12)

John A. van der Beek was born in 1925 in Nijmegan, Holland to Johannes Engelbertus and Maria Antonia van der Beek. On September 19, 1947, John professed simple vows in the Order as a member of the Province of Holland. He professed solemn vows on September 10, 1950, and was ordained to the priesthood on March 19, 1953. John earned an undergraduate degree from Nijmegan University, Holland. He studied Philosophy at the Augustinian House of Formation in Eindhoven, Holland, and did his basic theological studies at the Augustinian House of Formation in Culenborg, Holland. The final three years of theological studies took place in the Augustinian House of Formation in Nijmegan.

In 1953, Father van der Beek was sent by his Provincial to minister in the United States. Although he spent almost all of his ministerial life in the United States, he remained affiliated to the Province of Holland. He became a citizen of the United States on May 1, 1961. Father van der Beek's first assignment was as a teacher at Archbishop Carroll High School, Washington, D.C., from 1953 to 1955. He then taught at St. Rita High School, Chicago, Illinois, from 1955 to 1969. He also served from 1957 to 1965 as Assistant Dean of Discipline at St. Rita. From 1969 to 1974, Father van der Beek was engaged in doctoral studies at Notre Dame University, Notre Dame, Indiana. He received a Ph.D. in Religious Education from Notre Dame in 1974. While a graduate student, he served for a year as the Director of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) for the Deanery of South Bend.

In 1971, Father van der Beek and other members of the Graduate Studies program at Notre Dame founded the Ecumenical Center for Communication of Religion and Values. He was the founding Director of the Center with headquarters in South Bend until 1974, and then at Tolentine Center, Olympia Fields, Illinois, until 1983. While continuing his involvement with the Center, he joined the Tolentine Center staff on a part-time basis in 1975 to oversee projects of continuing education. At the same time, he became Adjunct Professor at DePaul University, Chicago. When the functioning of the Tolentine Center facility changed in 1983, Father van der Beek relocated along with the Ecumenical Center to Plainfield, Illinois, assisting religious education by developing programs, providing teacher enrichment and offering consultation services. When the Ecumenical Center ceased to function, Father van der Beek served as chaplain and teacher at Lewis University, Romeoville, Illinois.

Father van der Beek resided in retirement at Marian Village, Homer Glen, Illinois, from 2002 until June, 2004. At that time he relocated to St. Nicholas of Tolentine Monastery, Olympia Fields, Illinois. Because of declining health, he moved in 2009 to the home of a long-time friend, who was very dedicated to caring for Father van der Beek until the time of his death.
He is remembered as a generous and dedicated priest, a creative and innovative thinker, a caring and gifted teacher, and a companion in faith who believed that everyone is called to promote and spread faith values.

He is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, Illinois.

William C Van Breda, O.S.A.

1922 – 2002 (January 20)

William Cornelis Van Breda, son of Cornelis Van Breda and Gertrude Picard, was born in Tilburb, The Netherlands, on July 8, 1922. He began his early education by attending the parochial school at the Broeders Van Liefde from 1928 to 1933, and later attended high school at the Pensionaat St. Louis from 1933 to 1935. From 1935 to 1942 he studied philosophy at the Augustinianum, Eindhoven, and theology at the Theologicum Culemborg and Nijmegen. He entered the Augustinian novitiate on September 9, 1943, professed vows on September 10, 1944, as a member of the Dutch Province, and made solemn profession three years later. He was ordained to the priesthood on March 19, 1950 in Nijmegen.

Father Van Breda's first assignment was to Saint Augustine Parish, Nieuwendam, Amsterdam, and in 1951, he was sent to the Institute Catholique in Paris, for graduate work. In 1952, he was assistant pastor at Saint Nicholas in Witmarsum, The Netherlands. In 1954, Father Van Breda arrived in the United States and became an assistant at Saint Genevieve, Parish, Flourtown, Pa., and then, from 1955 to 1956 he taught at Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, N.Y.

From 1956 to 1973, Father Van Brda began his long career as teacher of classics, French, German, and religion at Monsignor Bonner High School, Drexel Hill, Pa. From 1973 to 1974, he taught at Austin Friars in Carlisle, England, and from 1975 to 1982, he worked as hospital chaplain while a member of Saint Augustine Parish, Philadelphia, Pa. He also served as assistant pastor in the parishes of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine, Jamaica, N.Y., Saint James Minor, Carthage, N.Y., and Saint Genevieve, Flourtown, Pa. In 1995, he became hospital chaplain at the Southeastern Pa. Veterans Center until he became too ill to continue ministry. Father Van Breda retired to the Health Care Unit of St. Thomas Monastery, Villanova, Pa., where he died on January 20, 2002.

Students remember Father Van Breda as an excellent and demanding teacher. Gifted with a subtle sense of humor he encouraged everyone to be the best they could be, both intellectually and spiritually. Through his faith, scholarship and experience he developed a sense of self awareness that flowed over into his religious dedication. When he felt he spent his talents in a given ministry or location, he moved on to encourage parishioners and students in several province commitments.

On January 23, the Liturgy of Christian Burial was celebrated for Father Van Breda in St. Thomas of Villanova Church, Villanova, followed by burial in the Augustinian plot at Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, Pa.
 

Jerome Van Alstyne, O.S.A.

1876 – 1927 (February 7)

Charles Laurence Van Alstyne was born in Montreal, Canada, on August 5, 1876, the son of Charles Van Alstyne, a moulder, and Margaret Hall. He studied with the Christian Brothers in Montreal, and later spent some time with the Trappists.

He was vested at Villanova on December 8, 1908, taking as his religious name, Brother Jerome. He began his novitiate at Villanova on December 15, 1913.

Brother Jerome was, by trade, a plasterer, and did much work in building and repairing the cement walks at Villanova College.

He died at St. Rita High School, Chicago, on February 7, 1927, and is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in that city.

Alfred H. Valiquette, O.S.A.

1864 – 1949 (April 14)

Alfred Henry Valiquette, son of Joachim Valiquette and Adeline Rossignol, was born in Ottawa, Canada, on June 9, 1864. He began his novitiate at Villanova, Pennsylvania, the first Canadian to enter the Province, on September 18, 1885, and made his simple profession of September 19, 1886. He was solemnly professed on the same day in 1889, and was ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Patrick Ryan in Philadelphia, on March 15, 1890.

Father Valiquette was assigned to Immaculate Conception Parish, Hoosick Falls, in July, 1890. He was transferred Saint Mary's in Lawrence, MA in August, 1891, where, the following February he became gravely ill with pneumonia, typhoid, and kidney failure. Though physicians informed the Province that there was no hope for him, he rallied and was able, in time, to return to St. Mary’s. In January, 1900, he was assigned to Havana, Cuba, but during travel was quarantined and had to return to Lawrence. In October, 1901, he was assigned to Saint Mary's Church in Waterford, NY, and was appointed rector there the following year. During his term of office, a new church and friary were built.

From 1914 to 1918, Father Valiquette was a Definitor of the Province, after which he became prior and pastor of Saint Paul's in Mechanicville, NY. In 1922, he was appointed prior and pastor of Saint Vincent's, our first parish foundation in San Diego, CA. From 1926 to 1938, he was prior and pastor of Saint James' in Carthage, and later of the Immaculate Conception in Hoosick Falls, NY. He again became prior and pastor at Saint James in 1938.

Father Valiquette was 77 when he retired to the monastery at Villanova in 1941. Eight years later, on April 14, 1949, he died there at the age of 85. He is buried in the Community Cemetery at Villanova.
 

John W. Tuohy, O.S.A.

1909 – 1988 (August 15)

John William Tuohy was born in Tompkinsville, Staten Island, New York, on July 7, 1909 to Patrick Tuohy and Catherine Murray. He had three brothers and three sisters. Baptized at Saint Peter's Church, he attended the parish grammar school from 1916 to 1924, He enrolled in Augustinian Academy on Staten Island and, influenced by the friars in the Parish of Our Mother of Good Counsel and at the Academy, he became a postulant in 1926. After graduation in 1928, he made his novitiate at Our Mother of Good Counsel, New Hamburg, New York, and professed simple vows on September 10, 1929. He did his philosophy studies at Saint Mary's Hall, on the campus of Villanova College, there professed solemn vows on September 10, 1932, and graduated with a B.A, degree in June 1933. His theological studies took place at Augustinian College in Washington, D.C., while his summers were devoted toward pursuing a master's degree in education at the Catholic University of America. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 9, 1936, at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington. The following year, 1937, Father Tuohy received his M.A.

Father Tuohy's first assignment was to Villanova Preparatory School, Ojai, California, where from 1937 to 1946 he taught a variety of subjects and was director and coach of the sports program. His next assignment was to Villanova, Pennsylvania, where he was a professor, dorm proctor, and for a time, served as dean of the freshman class. In 1951 he entered parochial ministry at Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish, Bryn Mawr, PA., as assistant pastor. In 1961 he was assigned to Saint Joseph's Parish, Greenwich, New York as vicar, and later as pastor and prior. He directed the restoration of the parish house, which had been damaged by fire. In 1962 Father Tuohy was appointed prior and pastor of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine in Jamaica, New York, and while there oversaw the building of the new church and friary, as well as additions to the parish school. In 1968 he returned to Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, as prior of the community and assistant pastor. In 1980 he retired, but chose to remain at the parish, and, although limited by failing eyesight, continued to assist in the parish and care for the elderly at Bryn Mawr Hospital. He passed away in his sleep on the feast of the Assumption, August 15, 1988.

Father Tuohy is buried in the Augustinian plot at Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania.
 

T. Shawn Tracy, O.S.A.

1940 – 2014 (July 20)

Thomas Shawn Tracy was born on March 6, 1940, in Washington, D.C. He was the son of John J. Tracy and Marion S. Mills, and had one brother and one sister. Shawn was baptized on March 31, 1940, at Saint Francis Xavier Church in Washington, attended the Campus School of the Catholic University of America, from 1946to 1954, and Archbishop Carroll High School, Washington, from which he graduated in 1958. He was received into the Order as a novice on September 9, 1958, and after a year at Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, New York, professed first vows on September 10, 1959. He attended Villanova University from 1959 to 1963, where he received a BA in Philosophy. He pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, and professed solemn vows on September 10, 1962. He was ordained to the priesthood on November 19, 1966, at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC, by Bishop Spence.

Father Shawn was assigned to Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish and High School, Bronx, New York, in 1967. During this assignment he also attended New York Theological Seminary and received an MA in Pastoral Counseling. While in the Bronx, with a group of parishioners, he began writing and playing a folk-inspired style of liturgical music. He also became involved with a new youth ministry, Teens Encounter Christ [TEC], from which an off-shoot designed for persons with physical disabilities emerged, called Handicapped Encounter Christ [HEC].

In 1975 he was assigned to Saint John Stone Friary, Villanova, Pennsylvania, and served in Campus Ministry at Villanova University, while he continued writing music, bringing people from the Bronx together with others at Villanova, and created a new group called He Shall Be Peace. He also continued his work with HEC. In 1995 Father Shawn stepped down from the position of Director of Campus Ministry to devote more time to the ministries of music, liturgy and retreats. He organized a group called Sanctuary and the focus of the music changed from music for liturgy to music as an accompaniment for prayer and contemplation. 

In 2007 he was assigned to Saint Augustine Friary, Villanova, where he was appointed prior. For health reasons, in December 2013, he moved to the Residential Care Center at St. Thomas of Villanova Monastery. He was taken to Lankenau Hospital where he died on Sunday, July 20, 2014, surrounded by his family. He is buried in Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA.

Father Shawn sought to balance a spiritual life of prayer with ministry to God’s people. He was an unassuming man who uttered kind words and saw Scripture as poetry. His ministry was one of putting music to that poetry, thus bringing God's word into hearts, his own and others’.
 

Francis E. Tourscher, O.S.A.

1870 – 1939 (January 30)

Francis Edward Tourscher, son of John Tourscher and Louise Widhauser, natives of Alsace, was born at Dushore, PA, on May 10, 1870. From a family of eleven, three of his sisters became religious. After attending a small country grammar school, he was apprenticed to a local carpenter. The parish priest instructed him in Latin and English. At the age of 22 he enrolled at Saint Rita Hall, Villanova. On September 18, 1894, he entered the novitiate and professed simple vows on September 19, 1895 and solemn vows on the same day in 1898. After completing his philosophical and theological studies at Villanova he was ordained to the priesthood in Saint Thomas Church on campus by the Apostolic Delegate, Archbishop Sebastian Martinelli, O.S.A., on September 29, 1898, and offered his first Mass the next day at the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel in the same church.Father Tourscher was stationed at Villanova for his entire religious life. His first appointment was as a teacher in the College and Studium. At various times he taught theology, sacred Scripture, church history, homiletics, patrology, and Latin. In 1902 he was awarded the Order’s degree of lector, in 1903 that of regent, and in 1908 magister. Over the years he served as definitor, secretary of the province, prior of Saint Mary's Hall, archivist, and college librarian.

His scholarly interest centered on patristic literature and church history, especially the writings of Saint Augustine, a number of whose works he translated and published in small, easily available volumes. His main historical works include Old Saint Augustine's, as well as numerous articles in “The Ecclesiastical Review," "The Records of the American Historical Society," and The Catholic Encyclopedia.

Professor and scholar, he was, but his apostolate was much broader as he went every Saturday and Sunday from 1902 to 1921 to assist at Saint Catherine Parish, Wayne. He was chaplain at Immaculata College from 1921 to 1926, and from 1926 to 1937 journeyed every weekend to Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill, while all this time acting as ordinary and extraordinary confessor at sisters' convents.

A gentleman by nature and a scholar by education, he lived a full, though uneventful, life. His was a quiet enthusiasm and conscious industry. Never a robust man, he still had a certain stamina which enabled him to carry on his work with determination and cheerfulness. He never missed celebrating daily Mass and Office from the time of ordination. His daily fare never varied: toast, coffee, and a little fruit. He took a daily walk through the neighborhood, reciting his rosary, greeting all with a friendly word and smile.Though very weak he celebrated Mass on January 30, 1939, needing a chair after communion so that he could complete the final prayers. Carried on the chair to his room, he took off his habit, lay down, and died within ten minutes. Father Tourscher is buried in the monastery cemetery at Villanova.
 

Joseph A. Toscani, O.S.A.

1917 – 1981 (December 5)

Joseph A. Toscani, OSA, was born on April 18, 1917, in Philadelphia, PA. He attended Saint Edmund's Church and Parish School, Philadelphia, PA. In September 1932 he entered Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, NY, as a postulant and became a novice in 1936. He professed first vows in 1937. He then went to Villanova College, (1937-1941), and Augustinian College, Washington, DC, for his theological studies, (1941-1945). He was ordained to the priesthood on May 18, 1944.

Fr. Toscani was first assigned to Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Philadelphia, PA, (1945-1948). He then was assigned to Our Lady of Pompeii Parish, Vineland, NJ, as pastor, (1948-1961), where he built Rosary Hall and supervised the construction of the mission church in Milmay, NJ. From 1961 to 1967 he served as Prior and teacher at Saint Augustine Preparatory School, Richland, NJ. In 1967 he was assigned as prior to Saint Mary Parish, East Vineland, NJ, (1967-1981), and became pastor of the parish in 1970, where he made extensive renovations to parish facilities and enriched the spiritual and social life of the parishioners through many new initiatives. When Fr. Angelo Allegrini died suddenly in 1972, Fr. Toscani was appointed to finish the term as Vice Provincial. In 1974 he was elected as Vice Provincial and reelected in 1978 to a second term, (1978-1982). During his 32 years of service in the Diocese of Camden, Fr. Toscani was very active in parochial ministry, attending to the spiritual and material welfare of the parishes entrusted to him. He was appointed as diocesan consultor several times, beginning in 1966. Fr. Joe was well known and loved for his great sense of humor and generous hospitality. On December 5, 1981, as he was preparing to celebrate the parish evening Mass, he became ill and passed away shortly later that day. He was 64 years old. Among his other relatives, he was survived by his brother, Fr. Peter Toscani, OSA, who celebrated his funeral. Fr. Joseph Toscani was interred in the Augustinian section of Saint Mary Parish Cemetery, East Vineland, NJ.
 

John F. Toomey, O.S.A.

1912 – 1989 (September 10)

John Francis Toomey was born August 22, 1912 in Lawrence, Massachusetts to John J. Toomey and Margaret E. Cronin. He was baptized and confirmed at Saint Mary’s Church, Lawrence. He earned his high school diploma in 1930 at St. John Prep School, Danvers, Massachusetts, and entered Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, New York, as a postulant, where he did a year of post-graduate studies. He was received into Good Counsel Novitiate on September 12, 1931, and professed simple vows on September 13, 1932 and solemn vows September 13, 1935. John received in 1936 a B.A. in Philosophy from Villanova College, Villanova, Pennsylvania, and was sent to Rome for theological studies. During this time he lived at Collegio Santa Monica while studying at the Gregorian University. He was ordained to the priesthood on July 9, 1939 in Rome, and received his S.T.L. in 1940. Upon receiving his degree, he immediately left Rome before the outbreak of World War II.

Father Toomey was assigned to Saint Rita High School, Chicago, as a teacher. When the new Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel was formed in 1941, he was affiliated to it. With the opening of Saint Monica Minor Seminary, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, in 1941, Father Toomey was assigned there as teacher and Prefect of Studies. When the progran moved in 1949 to Saint Augustine Seminary, Holland, Michigan, he relocated there. He was elected in 1949 to serve as Secretary of the Province.

In 1960 Father Toomey was transferred to Tolentine College, Olympia Fields, Illinois, where he taught and served as Regent of Studies until 1965. He was named Pastor of St. Augustine Parish, Detroit, Michigan, in 1965. From 1968 to 1971 he served as Prior of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Monastery, Olympia Fields. He returned to parish ministry in 1971 as Pastor of Saint Clare of Montefalco Parish, Chicago.
Father Toomey was transferred to Saint Rita Parish, Chicago, in 1977, serving as associate pastor of the parish and prior of the community there. Health problems caused him to be transferred in 1989 to Saint Rita Monastery, Chicago. He died there of cancer September 10, 1989, at the age of  77. Father Toomey is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, Illinois.
 

Anthony J. Tomasulo, O.S.A.

1934 – 2009 (June 11)

Anthony Joseph Tomasulo was born on May 5, 1934, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the son of Joseph T.omasulo and Grace Calabro. He had one sister, Marie. Anthony was baptized at the Church of the Assumption, Roselle Park, N.J., on July 1, 1934. He attended Alden School, Roselle Park Junior High School and Roselle Park High School, and Delbarton School, Morristown, NJ, for his primary and secondary education. In 1953 he entered Villanova and during his years there he applied for entrance into the Order. He was received as a novice on September 5, 1955, and after a year at Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, NY, he professed first vows on September 10, 1956. He returned to Villanova to complete his undergraduate degree and, in 1958, went to Augustinian College, Washington, DC, for his theological studies. He professed solemn vows on September 10, 1959, and he was ordained to the priesthood on June 3, 1961, at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC, by Bishop Philip Hannan.

Father Tomasulo was assigned to Saint Joseph Friary and Monsignor Bonner High School, Drexel Hill, PA, in 1962, where he taught Mathematics and Religion, and served in school administration. In 1975 he was appointed Master of Professed at the Augustinian Collegiate Seminary, Villanova. Beginning in 1976, Father Tomasulo became engaged in parochial ministry where, he said, he found his greatest joy. He served as parochial vicar at Saint Rita of Cascia Parish, Philadelphia, from 1976 to 1982; as pastor at Immaculate Conception Parish, Hoosick Falls, NY, from 1982 to 1990; as parochial vicar and later administrator at Assumption/Saint Paul Parish, Mechanicville, NY, for one year; and then as pastor of Saint John the Baptist Parish, Schaghticoke, NY, until 1997.

In 1995 he became parochial vicar at Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill, PA, and in 1999, was sent to Resurrection of Our Lord Parish, Dania Beach, FL, as pastor. His final assignment was to Saint John Neumann Parish, Charlotte, NC, in 2007 as parochial vicar.

Father Tony passed over to the Lord, peacefully in his sleep, on June 11, 2009, while attending the Convocation of the four North American Augustinian Provinces, which was being held in the Chicago, IL, area. At this gathering he had the opportunity to renew friendships with friars he had studied with, lived with and served with. He was 75 years old at the time of his death.

Father Tony had been diagnosed with a brain tumor while he was serving at Msgr. Bonner High School in the 1960s. The operation was successful, but this near death experience gave Tony an understanding that every day he lived beyond the operation was a gift from God to be enjoyed, celebrated and shared with others. This spirit pervaded his life and his ministry and gave Tony a joy-filled sense of humor and an affirming attitude toward every person or situation he met for the rest of his life. He often said that his greatest loves were his family and his experience of brotherhood as an Augustinian, his opportunity to be an instrument of God's peace as a priest, and his friendship with Jesus Christ, that made everything else blessed and possible. His ability to laugh at life and at himself drew others close to him and helped him to minister to them as friend, brother and priest. 

Adolfo Toccafondi, O.S.A.

1919 – 1973 (December 19)

Adolfo Toccafondi was born on September 23, 1919, in San Quirico di Vernio, near Florence, Italy, one of ten children of Gennaro Toccafondi and Emma Simoni. He professed first vows in the Order on October 10, 1935 and was affiliated to the Etrurian Province. He was solemnly professed on December 24, 1941. He was ordained to the priesthood on April 4, 1942 in our Church of Santo Spirito in Florence

Father Toccafondi ministered in various parishes and houses of his Province as teacher and Master of Professed. He also served four times as definitor, and was a musician and composer of religious music. 

Father Adolph came to the United States in 1959 and was assigned to the Church of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine, Philadelphia. From 1964 to 1967 he was prior at Our Lady of Pompeii in East Vineland, New Jersey, after which he returned to Saint Nicholas. During the last three years of his life, he suffered various health complications and after two urgent surgeries he died suddenly on the morning of December 19, 1973, at the age of 54. 

His funeral Mass was celebrated at Saint Nicholas of Tolentine, after which he was buried in the Augustinian Plot of Saint Mary’s Cemetery, East Vineland, NJ.