Alphonse Humm, OFM

1898 – 1982

Br. Alphonse Humm, OFM, was born Jan. 25, 1898 in Sindeldorf, Germany. In 1922, he left his father’s farm and became a tertiary brother in Fulda, Germany. At age 25, he traveled 3,000 miles to Paterson, N.J., in response to an appeal for volunteers. Br. Alphonse came to America with Brothers Francis Schmitt, OFM, and Bernadine Kohn, OFM. He entered the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, in 1924, professing temporary vows one year later. Br. Alphonse made his solemn profession in 1928.

He served as a welcoming porter for more than 50 years — 30 years at St. Bonaventure Friary and 21 years at St. Raphael Friary, Lafayette, N.J. His final six years were spent at the Provincial infirmary at St. Bonaventure University, Allegany, N.Y., where his spirit of prayer and devotion intensified.

He died on Jan. 10, 1982 at St. Francis Hospital in Olean, N.Y. Br. Alphonse was 83 years old, a professed friar for 56 years.