John Reeder, OFM

1911 – 1997

Br. John Reeder, OFM, was born on Dec. 19, 1911 in Rochester, N.Y. He was received into the Order at the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1934, professing temporary vows one year later. He made his solemn profession in 1938.

From 1934 to 1950, Br. John served as refectorian and/or porter at St. Anthony Friary, Butler, N.J., the novitiate at Paterson, and Holy Name College in Washington. In 1950, he began the first of his 45 years at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in New York City, at the front desk and especially the telephone switchboard.

Simple, quiet and tall, Br. John seldom went out, spending most of his free time in prayer, meditation and contemplation. He continued his life of contemplation in St. Petersburg, Fla., when he retired to St. Anthony Friary in 1995.

He died on Nov. 18, 1997 at Maria Manor in St. Petersburg. Br. John was 85 years old, a professed friar for almost 62 years.