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Father Theodore Hesburgh was an outstanding priest, scholar, humanitarian and holy person, recently passed to his eternal reward.
Father was a Holy Cross priest and longtime president of the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
As a freshman student in King’s College, Wilkes-Barre, also conducted by the Holy Cross Fathers, I remember hearing one of our Holy Cross teachers comment about Father Hesburgh and his assuming the presidency of Notre Dame at such a young age. Yes, Hesburgh was up to the challenge. He did a superb job!
Notre Dame is an outstanding “cathedral of learning.” This is thanks in large part to Father Hesburgh. Also, the campus is one of the most beautiful in the world.
Years ago, some friends and I traveled to Notre Dame to spend some days on the campus and attend a Boston College game. We stayed at the retreat home; we could see the lake from the building.
I visited with some Holy Cross fathers, whom I knew from King’s College. This was at the nursing home. It was so nice seeing Father Augustine Riverada, a family friend, and Father William Beston, our vice president.
While there, I spent a pleasant time with Father Hesburgh. As soon as I started talking to him, I knew he was special. He really weighed his words and gave me his undivided attention. One was at ease talking to him. I will always treasure the time spent talking to Father Hesburgh. May he rest in peace.
Frank Mrufchinski
Nanticoke