Franciscan Brothers and Sisters

Who have gone to their Eternal Reward

Rose Mirek

September 4, 1912 - August 19, 2007

Rose was a mother of three, physically, but a mother to many, spiritually. Everyone asked her for prayers and she took this very seriously; hence, the rosary was in her hand whenever she had a quiet moment. I don’t think she ever said an unkind word of anyone even though her feelings were sometimes hurt to the point of tears. She didn’t carry a grudge but forgave immediately and embraced the offender with her love. She had many Franciscan qualities but she will probably be remembered most for the all-loving smile and kind word she had for everyone. St. Francis and Our Lady definitely met her with joy!

Edward A. Johnson

June 7, 1926 - July 14, 2007

We will always remember Ed as the “strong, silent member.” He didn’t say much but acted with kindness and generosity to all. He was a deep, philosophical thinker but extended himself to everyone, even if he himself were hurting. When no one else was available to bring the Holy Eucharist to a shut-in, Ed was there! So now, Christ came to him and took him home!

Joyia Demarest

September 9, 1926 - May 29, 2007

Joyia was born in upstate New York as an only child. She was true to her name "Joy" and she spread her happiness by doing a tremendous amount of volunteering. Joyia was on the Sacred Heart Parish Council, was in charge of their record keeping, a chairperson for creating a directory of the parish, a Eucharistic Minister, worked in the Church office, was our Formation Director for a while, was Chairperson for Christian Unity and a member of the "Basic Community" which met twice a month to discuss how the Sunday readings applied to their lives. All of this and she still had time to go to the gym and play golf- her most favorite sport! Surely she is joyful to her heavenly home.

Shari Palmer

April 19, 1957 - January 9, 2007

Shari Palmer was not with our fraternity very long but her deep spirituality made a huge impact on us. Unlike most of us, she knew that God would be calling her home soon so she penned many of her thoughts. One of these she titled, "Praying for Peanut Butter." What is the proper response when God shows up in your life to be your Companion and Friend?....