Fr. Christian Pusateri O.S.B.

1928 - 2015

Pusateri, O.S.B., Father Christian Age 86, a Benedictine monk of Marmion Abbey, Aurora, Illinois, died peacefully in the Lord early in the morning of Thursday, January 1, 2015. He is survived by members of his monastic community, his sister-in-law, Eve Pusateri; 9 nephews and nieces, Anthony (Judy) Letizia, Daniel (Nan) Letizia, David (Marijo) Letizia, Joyce Letizia, Joanne (Kevin) Katsis, Larry (Anita) Pusateri, Paul Pusateri, Mary Ann Pusateri, Eva Campbell; and 27 grand-nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Josephine (Romano) Pusateri; and by his siblings, Anthony ("Pete"), Rose (Alfonse) Letizia and Lawrence. Father Christian was born on July 1, 1928, and was baptized Paul at Mount Carmel Parish, Melrose Park, Illinois. Upon graduation from Proviso East High School in 1945, he studied with the Maryknoll Mission Society from 1946 1953. He later completed his theological studies at St. Procopius Seminary, Lisle, Illinois, from 1953-1955. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Joliet on May 30, 1955. He subsequently earned a doctoral degree in counseling and a licentiate in Canon Law. From 1955 to 1977, Father Christian served in various capacities in the Joliet Diocese including as professor at Quigley Preparatory Seminary, Chicago (1963-65), Dean of Students, Vice Rector and Counselor at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary (1965-1971), Episcopal Vicar for Religious (1971-1976); Pastor of St. Patrick's Church in Wilton Center, Illinois (1972-1973); and service on the diocesan marriage tribunal. In 1977, Father Christian discerned that God was calling him to the monastic life at Marmion Abbey. He professed his first vows as a monk of the abbey June 9, 1978, and took the name of Christian. He professed final solemn vows on August 6, 1981. During the following years as a Benedictine monk, he was active as an instructor of psychology at Marmion Academy, counselor, spiritual director and as a popular retreat master for numerous religious communities. He always loved teaching and sharing his faith with others. During the last years of his life, as his health declined, Father Christian remained faithful to his monastic vocation, remaining committed to daily prayer and the Eucharist and maintaining an active participation in the daily life of the community until his unexpected death. Throughout his life, Father Christian loved the priesthood and his monastic community. He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs baseball fan. Also an avid reader, he could always be counted on to keep everyone up to date on the latest world events. He had a great sense of humor, loved a vibrant debate, was very committed to his family, and reserved a special place in his heart for his many nieces and nephews. Father Christian had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was called to eternal life on January 1, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. Father Christian's body will be received by his monastic community and family on Monday, January 5, at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Abbey Church at 850 Butterfield Road, Aurora. The Office of the Dead will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, January 6, from 8:00 a.m. until the Funeral Mass which will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the Marmion Abbey Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 N. Lake St., Aurora, 630-631-5500 or visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may leave condolences for Fr. Christian's family.