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THREAD: Last week, our family lost one of the greatest men we'll ever know. He was extremely humble and quiet so he wouldn't want me to do this, but the world needs to know about Monsignor Richard Mahowald and how many lives he impacted during his 90 years on Earth. (1/9)
First, without "Father Dick" (family nickname), our family would not be here today. He introduced my grandmother to my grandfather in Mitchell, SD back in the mid-1950s and later officiated their wedding in the summer of 1958. The rest is history. (2/9)
In 1955 he was ordained a priest at the North American College in Rome. During his over 60 years of priesthood, he served as associate priest/priest at St. Agnes in Vermillion, Holy Family Parish in Mitchell, St. Lawrence in Milbank and Christ the King in SF. (3/9)
He also oversaw the construction on Pius XII Newman Center at SDSU.
He served multiple teaching jobs at the North American College in Rome and served as the Superior of Casa Santa Maria. He was conferred the Prelate of Honor by Pope Paul VI in 1972. (4/9)
He served multiple teaching jobs at the North American College in Rome and served as the Superior of Casa Santa Maria. He was conferred the Prelate of Honor by Pope Paul VI in 1972. (4/9)
Additionally, during his time overseas, Father Dick evangelized across The Holy Land, Europe, and the Middle East. Through his adventures, Monsignor met numerous Popes, St. Pio of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio), and even sat with St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) on a plane. (5/9)
The stories he shared were unbelievable. I only bring these up to share with you all the abundance of wisdom he gained from these leaders of Faith. It showed in his words and it showed in how he made each person he met the most important person in the room. (6/9)
Finally, Father Dick helped form me spiritually into the man I am today. He baptized me, was my Confirmation sponsor, and helped officiate Nicole and my wedding. I will forever cherish his wisdom.
"Keep God's love in your heart and the light of the Church in your life." (7/9)
"Keep God's love in your heart and the light of the Church in your life." (7/9)
The tears that will be shed tomorrow at his funeral will not be tears of sadness that he is gone, but rather tears of joy. Joy that knowing when Richard Mahowald arrived at the pearly gates, God, with a smile, said "Well done, my good and faithful servant". (8/9)
I urge all of you during these uncertain times to call your grandparents, your parents, or anyone that you have debated calling these past several months. Check in on them and let them know that you love them.
God love ya, Father. Until we meet again.
(9/9)
God love ya, Father. Until we meet again.
(9/9)
