Claude Kean, OFM

1903 – 1967

Fr. Claude Kean, OFM, was born on May 28, 1903, in Cumberland, Md.

He entered the Province’s novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1921 and professed temporary vows the following year. In 1925, Fr. Claude made his profession of solemn vows. He was ordained a in 1927.

In his service to Holy Name Province, Fr. Claude proved himself an effective and adaptable teacher. His first assignment was to St. Bonaventure College, Allegany, N.Y., where he taught music, Latin and English. He was a professor of homiletics at Christ the King Seminary, Allegany.

He served as college prefect, seminary prefect, dean of discipline, director of the college radio studio, college dramatics and director of the glee club. In 1943, Fr. Claude went to St. Anthony Juniorate, Smithtown, N.Y., as spiritual director, and then on to Holy Name College in Washington, D.C., as professor of homiletics and chant.

From 1946 to 1952, Fr. Claude was stationed at Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School in Buffalo, N.Y., where he was the first principal, teacher of German and director of school dramatics. During his later years, he served as chaplain at the University of Maryland and as a professor of English, Latin and chant at the friary in Rye Beach, N.H.

Fr. Claude’s final assignment took him to Butler, N.J., where he was a member of the retreat band. He possessed great literary talent, was instrumental in revitalizing the Provincial AnnalsThe Priest, St. Anthony Messenger, The Victorian, Review for Religious, and Friar magazines.

He died Nov. 3, 1967 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville, N.J. Fr. Claude was 64 years old, a professed friar for 45 years and a priest for 40 years.