In Remembrance

Filomena always had a contagious smile on her face and was full of laughter and joy which she spread to everyone she met. Being with family brought her much happiness, and just about everyone she knew was considered part of her family. She was truly the life of the party. Any gathering with her, even if it was just Sunday dinner, was a party. She loved people and always found the good in everyone. She was everything great.

Eileen became a parishioner at St. Joseph's Church over 20 years ago. As the years went on, it was difficult for her to attend mass. She was so grateful for all the people who would bring her Communion, reflect on the week's Gospel reading, and just chat with her. The practice of being a Catholic was so important to her. Eileen became an Associate of the Sisters of Mercy for over 30 years. Our Lady of Mercy High School, her Alma mater, was an important part of her life! Eileen was very independent! A few adjectives describing Eileen from her grandchildren were faithful, gracious, kind-hearted, good sport, joyous, welcoming, tough, curious, and proud of her family. Eileen always signed her cards "Peace, Love, and Prayers"

Frank was an accountant for over 35 years. He was quick to laugh and had a good sense of humor. Frank loved going to all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren’s baseball, softball, basketball and volleyball games. After his wife and his family, golf was his true love. In 1953, Frank scored a hole-in-one at Midvale Country Club on the 240-yard, 13th hole. At the time, this was one of the longest aces ever made in the area.

Paul was a parishioner at St. Joseph’s for around 5 years. He attended weekly mass and holy days his entire life. Paul graduated from RIT where he studied mechanical engineering technology. He held several positions at Xerox in his more than 25 years before his retirement, including technical writer and project manager. He was known to be a dedicated dad who loved to build things and watch sci-fi, fantasy and action adventure shows and movies.

Wolfgang was a longtime parishioner of St. Joseph’s. He will surely be missed by his loving family.

Family was Barbara’s life. She was her happiest when she was with family and the home was full. This is all she really ever needed or wanted. She and her husband Thomas met at age 16 and had 66 beautiful years of marriage. They became parishioners of St. Joseph’s Church in 1975 when they moved here from Baldwin, NY. Barbara and Thomas cared deeply for the elderly in their community. She would call on the elderly and make them dinners.

Ed was an usher at the west side entrance of St. Joseph’s. He and his wife Kathy (married 53 years) were parishioners for over 40 years. Nothing brought Ed greater joy than spending time with his sons and their families. He enjoyed coaching Penfield Little League, and watching the Yankees and Notre Dame football. He was a member of Penfield Country Club for over 40 years.

After retirement Jo spent many happy years promoting Rochester as an information specialist for Visit Rochester and a volunteer at the George Eastman House. Family and faith were her greatest joys and highest priorities. She will always be remembered for being sassy and full of life.

John was a devout Catholic. He let his religion guide him and give him comfort and strength in difficult times. John grew up in the Great Depression and served his country in the Army through the end of World War II. A few years ago he took the Honor Flight to visit the WWII memorial in Washington DC.

Loving husband, father and grandfather. Tom was born and raised in Rochester, graduating from McQuaid Jesuit High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from St. John Fisher College and his law degree from Albany Law School. He practiced law for more than 45 years, and was extremely engaged in the local legal, political and Catholic communities. He brought grace, decency, and integrity to all facets of life. Tom attended all Catholic schools growing up. A weekly church-goer at St. Joseph's, the McQuaid alumnus felt great pride in his Jesuit education. He also had a great interest in theater.

Dave was a parishioner at St. Joseph's for 36 years. He volunteered on the Building & Grounds Committee, R&R Retreat Team member and was the Co-Chair of the St. Joseph's School Playground Committee. He also volunteered for Penfield Girls Softball, Penfield Little League, St. Joseph’s School, Our Lady of Mercy, and McQuaid. He gave his time so generously, always helping anywhere and to anyone who needed help. His faith was very important to him. Dave married his (Bishop Kearney) high school sweetheart, Sandy. He was a friend to many…and a huge Yankees fan!

Celine was a devoted mother. She was a parishioner at St. Joseph’s for approximately 10 years.  She was a devout Catholic, attending mass every Sunday.  Celine lived her life as a true Christian, always treating people with kindness, and would always help anyone that needed it. She will be missed.

Donald was a parishioner of Holy Spirit for 3 years and St. Joseph’s for the last year. His community Involvement included Rochester Rotary, Rochester Regional Foundation, and Rochester Hearing & Speech.

Norma was Roman Catholic and has been a parishioner at St. Joseph’s since the 60’s. After retiring, Gordon and Norma enjoyed spending time with the many friends they met through bowling as well as time spent with family. Norma also enjoyed watercolor painting.

Mary was a parishioner at St. Joseph’s Church for 47 years. Jim and Mary enjoyed extensive worldwide traveling, logging over 50 countries, wine making, golf, gardening and do-it-yourself projects. Mary and her husband Jim were married for 64 years.