Father Richard J. Donarski, OCSO, died March 17, 2012

Monday, March 19, 2012 - 2:00pm
Category: Monastery News

RichardFather Richard J. Donarski OCSO, 87, died in the monastery infirmary on Saturday, March 17, 2012. He was born July 5, 1924 in Chicago, Illinois. His parents were Joseph J. Donarski and Martha (Klajbor) Donarski. He was baptized at Saint Mary of the Angels Church on North Wood Street in Chicago. 

Father Richard had one brother, Arthur (wife, Katherine) and one sister, Alice (husband, Salvatore) Pisano, all deceased. One niece, Joan Pisano-Demming is deceased. Surviving are his nephews Jerry Pisano, Arthur Donarski, Jr., Daniel Donarski, and one niece Joyce Donarski-Schneider. Also surviving are his grand-nephews, Matt Pisano and Darren Demming, and grand-niece Christine Pisano-Jahaske. 

Father Richard graduated from Steinmetz High School (Chicago). He entered active duty in the United States Army on September 15, 1943. Father Richard was a corporal in the 269th Military Police Company and was awarded the American Theater service Medal and the Asiatic Pacific Theater Service Medal. He was discharged from active duty on April 25, 1946. 

Father Richard entered Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery on July 7, 1970 at age 46. He made his solemn monastic vows on December 8, 1975 and ordained a priest in 1986. He served the monastic community in various offices including Prior, Mass Secretary, and Cellarer.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon him. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

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