John Rowan, OFM

1911 – 1972

Fr. John Lambert Rowan, OFM, was born on Dec. 28, 1911 in Mount Morris, N.Y. He was received into the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1932, professing temporary vows one year later. Fr. John made his solemn profession in 1936 and was ordained in 1939.

He spent the first years of his priesthood at St. Bonaventure University, Allegany, N.Y. In 1944, he became associated with Christ the King Seminary, Allegany, serving as professor of theology, treasurer, director of students and vice-rector. From 1949 to 1952, Fr. John was rector of the seminary. During his term, the new seminary buildings were constructed.

In 1956, he became special deligate for ecclesiastical affairs for the Latin rite as assistant to Bishop Eustace Smith in Beirut, Lebanon. He returned to the United States to serve as rector of the new St. John Vianney Seminary in East Aurora, N.Y. Under his direction, the new seminary was built for the Diocese of Buffalo, N.Y.

He died on March 25, 1972 in Buffalo. Fr. John was 60 years old, a professed friar for 38 years and a priest for 32 years.