In a special obituary written by Fr Maurice Toop himself, Perth Catholics gain a special insight in the life of the Perth priest who will be remembered fondly for his dedication to the ministry to indigenous people and love for the many people to whom he ministered in Northbridge, Highgate, Maylands, Northam, Osborne Park and the Diocese of Geraldton. He passed away peacefully on 13 August 2022.
Ordained 4 September 1984 by then Archbishop William Foley, Fr Francis Ly Van Ca will be remembered for his dedication to the Vietnamese Community, in addition to his numerous roles across the Archdiocese of Perth. He passed away 26 July 2022.
Former Deputy Director of Catholic Education and Mercy Sister Joan Buckham RSM will be remembered for her dedication and commitment to education, serving as Principal at numerous schools and colleges, including Our Lady of Lourdes Nollamara, Ursula Frayne College and Aranmore College.
Former Osborne Park Parish Priest Fr Michael Gatt will be remembered for his annual hosting of the Gattline over Christmas, exemplifying his zeal and dedication. It was during these times that he would make himself available 24/7, listening to callers and encouraging them with his experience, especially with his experience of the goodness and mercy of God. He passed away on Thursday 19 May.
The life of well-known Ocean Reef parishioner Hugh Ryan, husband, father, teacher, writer, communications and media professional, was celebrated on 5 May following his passing on 19 April 2022. Mr Ryan served as Press Secretary to former Perth Archbishop Barry Hickey from 2001-2009.
89-year-old Fr John Neill OP was a founding Trustee-Governor of UNDA and will be remembered as a visionary leader who devoted his life to the service of the Church and education. He passed away Saturday 22 August.
Many tributes refer to Dr Neil Stewart as a humble man of faith and foresight as well as a gentleman of compassion who had helped them achieve their goals in life.
The life of the late Dr Richard Vincent McSweeney BA, Dip Ed, MA (Hons), Cert Soc Sc, PhD who departed on 31 December 2020, will go down in history as a man who was largely dedicated to the Catholic Church, to Catholic Education and to helping others. By Amanda Murthy.