Ignatius Ferree, OFM

1909 – 1980

Br. Ignatius Ferree, OFM, was born in Jersey City, N.J., on April 18, 1909. He entered the Province’s novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary in Paterson, N.J., Aug. 25, 1932, and professed temporary vows Aug. 26, 1933. Br. Ignatius made his profession of solemn vows Sept. 17, 1936.

He spent his first 25 years as a friar in a number of posts in various houses of Holy Name Province: as cook, porter, refectorian, sacristan, guest master — in Washington, D.C., Manhattan, Garfield, N.J., Beach Haven, N.J., Callicoon, N.Y., and Buffalo, N.Y.

The latter part of his life was spent in New Jersey — specifically in Fair Lawn, Butler and the House of Prayer in Lafayette.

Br. Ignatius was a simple friar whose entire life was lived in the presence of God. He was a prayerful friar who took great delight in his many devotional practices. His only material possessions were his treasured collection of statues and relics. He was a faithful worker wherever he was assigned and a delight among the friars.

He died in St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Fla., on June 30, 1980. He was 71 years old and a professed friar for 46 years.