Theodore Ascher, OFM

1906 – 1963

Br. Theodore Ascher, OFM, was born on May 16, 1901 in Weingarten, Germany. At age 23, he entered the Order, and received the habit in Fulda in 1924. He professed temporary vows one year later and made his solemn profession in 1928. Shortly afterward, he volunteered to come to the United States to minister in Holy Name Province.

He spent many years at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., working faithfully and gaining wide recognition for his exceptional talents as a painter and artist. In 1956, Br. Theodore went to St. Raphael’s Novitiate, Lafayette, N.J., and then to St. Anthony Friary, Butler, N.J., where he served from 1959 to 1961. In 1961, he was transferred to St. Joseph Seraphic Seminary, Callicoon, N.Y., where he suffered a stroke, and was hospitalized.

Br. Theodore went to the new friary at St. Bonaventure University, Allegany, N.Y., where he spent his days praying and reading. He was a serious religious whose spiritual life was an edification to those who knew him.

He died on Nov. 27, 1963 at St. Francis Hospital, Olean, N.Y. Br. Theodore was 62 years old, a professed friar for 38 years.