Benno Holleritter, OFM

1866 – 1937

Br. Benno Holleritter, OFM, was born in Blankenheim, Bundenthal, Germany, on Oct. 16, 1866. He came to the United States at the age of 14 and became acquainted with the Paterson, N.J., friars through a family that befriended him.

After four years as a tertiary brother, he was received into the novitiate Aug. 15, 1890, at St. Bonaventure Friary in Paterson. He professed temporary vows Sept. 8, 1891, and he was solemnly professed Dec. 15, 1894.

Br. Benno was assigned to St. Anthony Friary in Butler, N.J., for three years, and then went to St. Mary’s in Obernburg, N.Y., for one year. In 1895, Br. Benno was assigned to St. Joseph’s Seraphic Seminary in Callicoon, N.Y., where he worked with Fr. Damian Kehr, OFM, the first Franciscan pastor there.

For 32 years Br. Benno was stationed at St. Patrick’s Friary in Buffalo, N.Y., where as cook, electrician and handyman, he served his community with dedication and genuine devotion. He was a deeply prayerful man who often spent entire nights in the chapel and delighted in creating truly artistic Christmas cribs.

Br. Benno died in Denver on July 31, 1937. He was 70 years old and a professed friar for 45 years.