It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of our brother, Francis Joseph Patsula of Edmonton, Alberta on Tuesday, December 17, at the age of 88 years.
Francis is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Theresa Lavallee, John, Ron (Anita Zacharko), Philip (Faye Ereiser), Tom (Caroline Nadon), Lucille (Del Jamieson), Dan (Margie Otto) and Elaine; his many nieces and nephews, brother priests, as well as numerous friends and people he served. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Doris Patsula; brother, Gerald and his wife Rita Majeau; and brother-in-law, John Lavallee.
Our brother Francis was a devoted Priest, a compassionate and faith-filled man. He valued and loved his family, participated in and enjoyed all celebrations from birthdays and weddings, to baptisms and Sunday dinners. No matter what gathering he was at, his toolbox was ready in the trunk of his car in case something needed fixing. Each Christmas his family received a share in gifts he donated to impoverished communities through the Chalice organization (water systems, piglets, mosquito netting, etc.).
Francis was ordained on June 4, 1955 and served the Archdiocese for nearly 65 years in various ministries, including pastor, professor of canon law at St. Joseph Seminary, and judicial vicar before retiring in 2009. He continued to assist in various parishes beyond his retirement.
A Visitation will take place between 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., on Friday, December 27, 2019 at Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home, 10011 114 Street, Edmonton.
A Funeral Mass with Reverend Jim Corrigan as Presider will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, December 28, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Basilica, 10044 113 Street, Edmonton.
Interment to follow Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery, 14611 Mark Messier Trail, Edmonton.
Francis gave to numerous charities every month. In lieu of flowers, please pay it forward to a charity of your choice.
Maureen Hutchinson says
Elaine,
My dear friend I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your brother Reverend Francis Joseph Patsula. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love Maureen
Margaret Gawley says
Indeed this is a time of heavy hearts for many. Francis was not only the core of his immediate family but also his vast extended family. Despite the large number of his extended family he forgot none of us. Francis visited and communicated with all of us over his life time. A visit with him and all of the Patsula family was a highlight of my youth right into my present years. His laughter and presence will be sadly missed by myself and many.
My sincere and loving condolences,
Margaret Gawley
Liane Patsula says
I have very fond memories of Fr. Francis, especially of him bringing us (his nieces and nephews) to the movies and fixing every appliance in our house when he is visited. And his magic tricks always captivated me! Since Grandma passed away, it was always very comforting to get his birthday well wishes. He was a very kind, welcoming and unassuming person. We wish we could be there with the family to celebrate his life.
Love and prayers always,
Sean, Liane, Eva, Christian, Abby & Katie xox
Cheryl Hickey says
Lucille,
Mrs. Margaret Ellen (Fred) McFadden would have wanted me to extend her sympathy on the loss of your beloved brother. I have several photos – perhaps one of Fr. Patsula’s ordination and a professional photo of you, Lucille. If you would like me to forward a copy, please send an email. God Bless. Cheryl Hickey (Mrs. McFadden was my “surrogate” grandmother.)