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John Rossiter Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Rossiter
Joanie Clair
January 17, 2011
I just heard about Fr. John I am trying to remember where I was at the end of June. I am deeply sadden to hear of his death. I had heard he was ill and I am thankful that he is finally out of pain. I grew up at Pius & Fr. John married me. I had wanted him to baptize my oldest son but he told me I had to have the priest at the church I belong to do that. When I first went to talk to him about getting married I asked him if he could marry us at Shawnee Mission Park and he said he would love to but the Pope wouldn't allow it. My Parents were very active at Pius and my Dad volunteered and did the books for years until he retired. Fr. John gave my Dad something to thank him for all his years of service and I can't remember what it was but my Father was very touched. Mom would always invite Fr. John over for dinner and we always loved his stories and especially all his jokes. Heaven's gain is our loss.
Audra & Tom McPeak
July 15, 2010
Just found out that Fr. Rossiter had died.
You will be missed Fr. John! My late mother used to talk about that good looking Priest at Assumption Church!
Pamala Bonjour-Glotzbach
July 10, 2010
The Family of Father John Rossiter,
Father Rossiter has been there for my families most celebrated times. From marrying my children, supporting us when their father died to baptizing my granddaughter! I will always remember his support when things seemed impossible, his humor, and his spritual leadership. Serveral years ago my Aunts and Uncles from all over the country were in town to see my son receive his "Alatarede" Boy Scout Religous Award. He had no idea that they were Southern Baptist and he asked 5 questions and said since you all look puzzled he gave the answers, then he said if you were Southern Baptist you would have already known the answers! They just loved it! Because of that he was one of the reasons they came back to see my children get married just to hear him! They will never forget the Father from Topeka, Kansas and either will my family. Thanks for touching our lifes Father Rossiter.
Valerie, Christopher, Mary, and Kaelyn Glotzbach, and Pamala Bonjour-Glotzbach
Dana Armenta Timms
July 4, 2010
Fr Rossiter was and always will be my favorite priest. He was the priest I learned my Catholic faith from as a student of St. Pius X. When I returned to St. Pius just 3 years ago as an adult it was a funny feeling to not have father there to welcome me back but no matter what I always see and hear Fr Rossiter up on the altar too. I know that he is now in heaven right where he earned to be while he was on this earth of ours. My thoughts and prayers to his family.
Sara McGinnis
July 2, 2010
My family and I will always remember the kindness and compassion Father Rossiter showed us when our mother passed away. He visited her often before her death and was a great comfort to us all.
When I think of being spiritually inspired, I think of an Easter Mass my brother and I attended. Father Rossiter's reverence and beautiful voice during the Liturgy of the Eucharist was mesmerizing and helped us to join in fully with the spirit of the Easter season. Father Rossiter will live on in the many hearts he touched.
Kathy Tomei
July 1, 2010
Father Rossiter was very special to our family. I knew him from his days at Blessed Sacrament and later at Ward High School. We were blessed to know him at St. Pius and hated to see him go. We traveled at least once to Topeka for the Easter Vigil. He was the best liturgist ever. We knew not to call him during Notre Dame games but also knew that he cared deeply for people and their struggles.
July 1, 2010
My family and I attended St. Pius for a short time in the '80s after a recommendation from friends. They spoke very highly of Fr. Rossiter and after being members for a while, we understood. I loved his bulletins, so funny, informative and personal. And I remember at the end of mass one Sunday, he said, "I don't know if it is the effect of the wine, or what, but the church always seems emptier after Communion", a gentle dig at the people who had to be the first out of the parking lot. They, of course, didn't hear that remark!
I am blessed to have known him.
Karen Stigers, K.C., KS
July 1, 2010
My condolences to the family of Father Rossiter. I was teaching at St. Pius X in Mission while Father John was pastor there. He was such a wonderful, kind priest and a great person in general. His sense of humor was beyond beyond. When I was celebrating my 25th year teaching at Pius Father Rossiter had the Mass of celebration. I sat in the second pew and when it came time for the sign of peace, Father came down off the altar, picked up his alb and climbed right over the front pew. He had this mischievous grin on his face when he gave me the sign of peace. I dearly loved him as did the parishoners of St. Pius. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this sad time. Anita Striegel
June 30, 2010
Maureen Jim and Jeanne: After reading the other guest book entries, seem like they have pretty much covered all the bases. I'll just say how good and kind he was to Belinda and myself over the years. I am most grateful for his friendship and spiritual guidance in my life. Here's a little nugget of his thoughtfulness. When I would lector,and come down from the ambo, as he was on his way over, he would always gesture and silently mouth the words "good job" and nod, before he headed up for the gospel and homily. That was his heart...paying attention to everyone.
We wish you PEACE...
Tommy and Belinda McGeeney
Cape Coral, Florida
Helen Herrin
June 30, 2010
Father Rossiter....what a beautiful person...one of my favorite priests....I will miss sure miss him. Our Father has called him home. God bless his soul.
Mark Baum
June 30, 2010
To the family of Father Rossiter, Our family has had the opportunity to share so many fond memories with Father Rossiter; our Wedding, the Baptism of each of our children, sharing Friday school masses (where he hugged all those too young for Communion), Sunday masses throughout the years, and especially the Holy Day masses (Easter was always a favorite because we got to hear him sing). He will be greatly missed!
Our only condolence is that he has surely been welcomed home, and some day we will all be reunited.
The Baum Family
Laura McVay
June 30, 2010
Father John baptized each of our three children, listened to their first confessions, and helped confirm them. Our children learned what it was like to live their faith by working in the rectory for Father. He blessed our marriage of 25 years and my parents of 50 years. He was a true example of what men of God should be. His intelligence and wit made his sermons infamous and the influence he had on our our family will be forever remembered and help us keep our faith strong. A sad day for us but for Father a joyous occasion!
Roger,Laura,Carly,Cole and Connor McVay
Suzi Daffron
June 30, 2010
May God Bless you, Father John. There have been so many lives you have blessed. So now it's our turn to bless you. Know that you are loved by so many people. We know that God is now holding you in His arms. You will never be forgotten.
A Ortega
June 30, 2010
Thank you Father for blessing Jessica and my lives/heart. You will be truly missed. God Bless!
Mary Jo Mahoney
June 30, 2010
Father John was truly blessed and chosen by a very loving God to serve with and for us in our communities of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. How lucky am I that our paths crossed so many times that I owe my own life's work to him. I first met him in Leavenworth..he was at the Old Cathedral when it tragically burned down on a very cold December day. My grandparents, dad, brother and I stood outside in the frigid cold watching the fire dept. put out hot spots. The miracle of that horrible fire was that Fr. John's ordination chalice somehow escaped damage, while other precious vessels melted in the intense heat of the fire. Later, we would meet while he was at the Lawrence Campus Center. I was at the "other" university, but very involved in music and we collaborated with musicians from KU several times. Lo and behold, Fr. John's next assignment was St. Pius X in Mission, my home parish. Once we renewed our acquaintance, he immediately called me to come to work and use my music degree for the church. I answered the call (I was only 24 at the time) and became the first female music director at St. Pius X. He taught me so much about liturgy, but even more about life and service in the church. He presided at our wedding, baptized our three children, and sat through the night with my family as my father passed away. My dad and Fr. John had found a very special friendship and his homily at my father's funeral still resounds in my heart as it was so personal and insightful of my dad's own struggles with life. I know how difficult this time was for Fr. John, as he had three funerals within two days, all of which he was very present for all of our families. When he called me to think about teaching music in the grade school, I could not say no, as he seemed to know me better than I knew myself, and knew where my gifts should be used. I will always be grateful to Fr. John for being the one to empower my work for the church, and for doing the same for so many other folks by just asking. I will always fondly remember the many Masses shared with him - funerals, school liturgies, weddings, holydays, Advents, Christmas, Lents and Holy Weeks - all made special by the way he touched everyone, young and old, with his words deeply seeded with faith and hope in our God. I truly hope his family knows that we all loved Fr. John very much, and how much he will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to live and worship in his assigned parishes. Eternal and glorious rest, Fr. John - you will always be revered and remembered. Our love and prayers, Patrick and Mary Jo Mahoney, and children Catherine, Michael and Colleen - St. Pius X Parish
Father Luke Byrne S.J.
June 30, 2010
To John's family and friends
God has called a great priest home to receive the reward of his faithful service over so many years. I always enjoyed crossing his path from my early priest days in K.C. Mo in the 1970s. He will be in my prayers as he goes to receive the place lovingly prepared for him with God forever,
Shannon Smith-McNeely
June 30, 2010
Dearest Father John, You have been an integral part of my life. As my dad's best friend I saw you in one light; attending sporting events with you as a rabid or perhaps avid Chief's fan I saw you in a different light: and then when you were formally involved in your duties as a priest I saw you in yet another light. But in all these roles, you emanated light...a beacon of hope and source of illumination! My son remembers as a little boy he felt a lil intimidated by you until you whispered to him that he could relax as you were one of the Men In Black!!! I love you and know that we will meet again...thank you for all that you did for me and my family and the community and even more for all that you were!!
Heidi Haney
June 30, 2010
Father Rossiter was a kind man and priest. When attending mass with Father Rossiter, I always left with a message and understanding like no other. His smile was contagious, his jokes very funny, and his love for our Lord like no other. It is a very sad time for our parish community,family and friends. Father Rossiter married my husband and I, and baptised our children. We have all been very blessed to have known him and experience his kindness. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Father John's family, and thank you all for the years that you have shared this very special man with us. Father John, we will miss you very much, and may you rest in peace with the Lord our God.
Sincerely,
June 30, 2010
We will miss you!
Your classmate Bob Schultz - Hayden'51 and family
wife-Diana
Daughters
Denise Schultz Lolley - Hayden '83
Kirsten Schultz
Kristen Schultz
(grandson) Brody Lolley - Hayden 2010
Kathy Regan Atkinson
June 30, 2010
If you attended a Mass said by John Rossiter then you saw Mass the way it was intended to be said. His gestures were large and beautiful and you could hear every word of every prayer he said..he was proud of saying the Mass and it made you proud to be there with him. When he left St. John the Evangelist there were a lot of sad people and I was one.
Ed Macan
June 30, 2010
There are few who enter our lives that create such an impact that it lasts a lifetime. From the classes at Donnelly College to my Parish Priest at St Pius the X, Father Rossiter was an inspiration. His kindness, compassion and understand of the human condition were extraordinary. I have never met anyone that possessed such an intuitive nature, where after stating the reason he could determine the cause. His guidance and inspiration has lasted a lifetime and his memory will shine as brightly as his words of the past lead me into the future. His knew no stranger and would offer all that he knew to help you forge a better future. His concern for his fellow man was unparalleled. What he had done behind the scenes was so much more astonishing then that was he did in public that few will ever understand or appreciate the kind and gentle lamb of god that walked among us. He would place his personal life on hold to help one of his flock, and without hesitation, take the time to work through the crisis with anyone who asked his help. His unselfish desire to make the world right for all and his unwavering belief in the power of our lord Jesus Christ, should serve all who witnessed his life a model for their future.
Joe & Debbie Garletts
June 29, 2010
We will miss our old friend. He was instrumental in the faith formation of our four children, and provided a solid foundation for those fortunate enough to know him.
J Swain
June 29, 2010
I always got excited when i saw that he was saying mass...one of my favorite priests
A. Mendoza-Hernandez
June 29, 2010
I always enjoyed his services and homilies. They were the best. God bless you and thank you for touching my heart through God and his word. You were my favorite and that's why I liked attending Assumption and your services there. Thank you again!
Sean Rossiter Renfro
June 29, 2010
I love the fact that so many people knew "uncle" John as a person who anyone could feel like they were equal to. The most vivid memories I have of him were when he would tell a joke and I would think to my self, should I laugh or not? as it was often something you wouldn't expect from a priest. I hope to be half the man you were, thank you.
June 29, 2010
Dear Father John Family,
Our family, the Obregon's met Father John his very first day he arrived in Topeka. We had never met him, but he was called to the hospital as our father was dying and we wanted our priest from Assumption Church to be present. Father introduced himself telling us he had not even had a chance to unpack, but received the phone call and came right away to meet all of us and pray with us. Father John took the time to visit with each of us and we told him what a wonderful father we had and how much it hurt all of us to lose him. Father provided comforting words and said he appreciated our input so he could know our father through our words. We continued to attend Assumption and enjoyed Father's candid words, which sometime caught one off guard, but we always knew he was speaking the truth. Thank you for the gift of a great priest with a wonderful sense of humor and one who was a mentor for anyone who needed him. Father Rossiter will continue to be talked about in our family, with laughs and dignity. He certainly was one of a kind.
Sincerely,
The Art Alcala Family
The Roxanne & Tiffany Dominguez Family
The Gloria Obregon Family
The Rick Zuniga Family
John & Anita Mavrovich
June 29, 2010
Father John was one of the most awesome priests I've ever met. One moment he could be a very knowledgeable man of God and the next moment he was just one of the guys. He will be missed by our family. Our sorrow will be comforted by all the fond memories of Father John.
Linda Elliott
June 29, 2010
What the priest of God leave's behind, is far more valuable than the passing things of this world. He leaves behind the witness of a good life that was informed and directed by the love of God. He leaves behind an example of generous sacrifice and commitment that made a positive difference for others. And he leaves behind a legacy of faith, hope and love in the people he served, planting in them the very seeds of eternal life.
I love you Father Rossiter.
Janet, Rocky, and Evan Arnold
June 29, 2010
Father John always liked a good joke. He especially got a kick out of this one. Our daughter, who is now 18, was very young and I took her to the altar after Mass one Christmas season day to view the manger scene. After identifying Mary, Joseph, the wise men, and the animals, she looked up at me and said, "But where's Father Rossiter?" We enjoyed a good chuckle over that! He's been my favorite priest EVER! So approachable and kind-hearted! He has performed 2 baptisms, our wedding and a graveside service for my family over the years. I will miss him ever so much, but have many good memories in my heart that will remain forever. Our lives are richer for having known him. Godspeed, Father John! You finished the race well, indeed. Our sympathies to his family.
Mary Godfrey
June 29, 2010
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Stan and Brenda Zimmerman
June 29, 2010
We are all priviledged and blessed to have had Fr.Rossiter commit his life to Christ and be a shepard to us! Peace to all!
Jeremy & Sarah Palubinski
June 29, 2010
Father Rossiter was a wonderful man of God and will be missed by so many people who he has helped and blessed over the years. May God give those grieving peace and calm during this difficult time.
Leslie Logsdon
June 29, 2010
We miss him already. Thanks to all of you who are leaving messages here. They provide even extra insights to us, spark memories, and are a consolation to all. Times like these arise occassionally to remind us of how we'd like to be a 'fly on the wall' in heaven!
Father's neice,
pat callaghan
June 29, 2010
I'll always remember Father Rossister at St. John's in Kansas City Kansas during the 1960's--leading us during the wonderful, heady days of Vatican II. May he rest in peace and interecede for us all in the heavenly kingdom.
Richard Brewer
June 29, 2010
A very Nice man, and a very good Priest. A very sad time when one has to pass yet another sheep to add to God's Herd. Thank you for letting us have one of yours for the time he was here and now he returns to thee. Father John you will be missed.
RB
June 29, 2010
When Father Rossiter preached, I took notes. His rich understanding of theology and his ability to look at the Church over time consoled me and enriched my life. As a grandmother of Assumption School children, I knew his presence and love for them reached deep inside. What a gift he was to us all! Marge Ahrens, Topeka.
Karen O'Connor
June 29, 2010
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Father John F. Rossiter. He was so gracious and compassionate to my family when my oldest brother, Gerry, died in 1983. I have been a life-time member of St. Pius X and remember his sermons like I heard them yesterday. I also use to bump into him when attending live theatre performances in downtown Kansas City. He was always such a delightful and caring human being. May he enjoy eternal rest.
Chriss Wiles
June 29, 2010
My deepest sorrow to lose such a wonderful priest. He was an institution at Assumption and I will miss him greatly.
Beverly A. Robards
June 29, 2010
I was so deeply saddened to see where a- -fine Priest,Father John has passed away
-but,I don't go around spreading stories'
-or,gossip or,rumors';I had overheard he
-wasn't getting around very well and,I-
-just wanted to wish his entire family-
-my most deepest,heartfelt sympathy;his-
-struggle is over and,I well remember I-
-spoke to him in private and,he received my-
-confession,long time before I became a-
-member of.the Holy Catholic Church;he-
-had such pretty,curly red hair and,yes,-
-a great sense of,humor;being part Irish-
-for real myself,Father John turned my-
-heels'in the right path to go and,to-
-follow Our Most Holy Lord of,all,Jesus-
-Christ of,Nazareth.Peace to you all and,
-I know it won't be the same;I haven't-
-been in the happy St.Patricks'day parade
-for years'but,seeing Father John when-
-he retired will always remain in my- -
-heart,I loved him as a wonderful Priest
-and,I know he will be sadly missed but,
-take comfort in knowing the rainbow in-
-Eternal Heaven and,Our Most Holy Mother-
-The Virgin Mother Mary and,Holy St.Joseph
-have welcomed Father John to his new,-
-eternal home and,rest;my love to you all
-and,tommorow will shine with peace,I'm-
-pretty well sure of,that as well,too.-
-With God's Love;-
-Beverly A.Robards.-
-Member/Parishioner;Most Pure Heart-
-of,Mary,Holy Catholic Church/Parish,-
-Topeka,Ks.;graduate,Class of,1977;- -
-Topeka,Ks.;33 1/2 years';classical- -
-pianist 43 years',most locally and,I-
-knew Father John from many years',too.-
Judy Tatz
June 29, 2010
Very nice - he will be missed. I keep thinking of his Irish twinkle and how he got a kick out of what you had to say before you even said anything. He was a very special people-person. It is comforting to know he is now reunited with other loved ones - and catching them up. My love to all of you. Judy Rossiter Tatz, Chandler, AZ
Beverly Williams
June 29, 2010
The light you brought into the lives of many will shine on.
Tutti(Bennett) Adams
June 29, 2010
To the family of Father Rossiter,I got the pleasure of meeting Father Rossiter at my sisters wedding.He was a very upbeat and special individual.I liked him instantly.He also gave my Dad his last rites,when he was at Hospice House.I'm sorry to say,i never did get to thank him,as so many things were going on.I'm sure my sister did,since she was incontact with the Father quite often.He touched so many peoples lives,and i want to say Thank you for sharing him with so many,and Father, thank you for being there, for our family in our time of need.May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.From the Adams,Noll and Bennett Families
Tutti(Bennett)Adams
Gary Adams
Sandra(Bennett)Noll
Anna Bennett
Lenny Bennett
John Bennett
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