Brian Lhota, OFM

1913 – 1984

Fr. Brian Lhota, OFM, was born Dec. 25, 1913 in Millvale, Pa. As a young man, he entered the Capuchins’ seminary in Butler, Pa. He left the Capuchin novitiate to enter Holy Name Province at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1934, professing temporary vows one year later. Fr. Brian made his solemn profession in 1938 and was ordained in 1940.

He studied at The Catholic University of America in Washington and received his doctorate in philosophy in 1947. Fr. Brian taught at St. Bonaventure University, Allegany, N.Y., and in 1955, was chosen to serve as its 13th president. He was a Provincial Councilor and also served as prefect of studies for the Province. In his retirement, Fr. Brian served for many years on the Provincial Committee for the Sick, Aged and Retired.

He died on Jan. 11, 1984 at St. Francis Hospital in Olean, N.Y. Fr. Brian was 70 years old, a professed friar for 48 years and a priest for 43 years.