REV. ROBERT THOMAS BEGIN, J.D.

REV. ROBERT THOMAS BEGIN, J.D., age 84, born May 28, 1938, passed away July 24, 2022. He served at several Cleveland area parishes, most recently as pastor for St. Colman Catholic Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Aside from parish assignments, Bob earned a law degree from Cleveland State University, and was assigned to Commission on Catholic Community Action that had been established by Bishop William Cosgrove. Bob used his education and skills to spearhead programs and organizations to serve those in need. He saw himself as an "urban missionary" and he fought tirelessly for justice on behalf of those oppressed or denied basic human rights and dignity. Bob was a person of truth, so when he spoke truth to power, it seemed to contradict his promise of obedience. He always believed, "You do what's right, in spite of the consequences." Bob is survived by his siblings Lenore Begin, Jerome Begin (Paulette), Laura Kuhn, Barbara Begin Campbell (Jeff), and Madonna Tkachyk (Robert). He was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy A. and Catherine E. Begin (nee Wuescher), and his siblings Floyd C. Begin (Antoinette), Mary C. Handley (George), Leroy L. Begin (Patricia), James Begin, Eugene F. Begin (Marguerite), Sheila Zimmerer (Walter), and Fr. Daniel L. Begin. Bob is the nephew of Bishop Floyd L. Begin, who served as Bishop of Oakland from 1962 until his death in 1977, and as Auxiliary Bishop in Cleveland from 1947-1962. He is uncle/great uncle to many, and loved by cherished friends. He loved nothing better than spending time with his people, sharing stories, discussing issues, laughing, and enjoying good company (preferably along with a hot meal). He will truly be missed. The Memorial Mass for Fr. Bob will take place at St. Colman's on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at 10:30 A.M.  Most Rev. Edward C. Malesic, the Bishop of Cleveland, will be the principle Celebrant and Rev. Paul Wysocki will be the Homilist.  There will be a PreMass Memorial Presentation at 10:00 A.M.,  Donations in memory of Fr. Bob can be directed to the following organizations: Women's Outreach Center - Congregation of St. Joseph, 3430 Rocky River Dr., Cleveland, Ohio, 44111, or St. Colman Parish - Outreach Center, 2027 West 65th St., Cleveland, Ohio 44102.

The Memorial Mass will be livestreamed on the Chambers Funeral Homes Facebook page (link to our Facebook page below):

https://www.facebook.com/Chambers-Funeral-Homes-1560347080741913

Fr. Begin booklet