Timothy Gritmon, OFM

1929 – 1992

Fr. Timothy Gritmon, OFM, was born July 6, 1929 in Fort Edward, N.Y. Before entering the Order, he received his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Siena College, Loudonville, N.Y., and his master’s degree in chemistry from Union College, Schenectady, N.Y. After graduating from St. Joseph’s Seraphic Seminary, Callicoon, N.Y., he was received into the Province’s novitiate at St. Raphael Friary, Lafayette, N.J. He professed temporary vows one year later, made his solemn profession in 1960 and was ordained in 1962.

After ordination, Fr. Timothy went to a diocesan parish in Tallahassee, Fla., where he served as an assistant. At the same time, he pursued studies in chemistry at Florida State University, receiving his doctorate in 1968. From 1968 to 1983, he taught at St. Bonaventure University, Allegany, N.Y., where his qualities of gentleness and tenderness endeared him to students. During those years, Fr. Timothy also served as guardian and director of the Province’s infirmary.

In 1983, Fr. Timothy went to St. Joseph Parish, Winsted, Conn., where he ministered as an assistant until 1987, when he became pastor and guardian. In 1990, he was appointed pastor of St. Anthony Parish in Yulan, N.Y. As both a professor and parish priest, he was a quiet, humble friar, whose easy smile and manner remained refreshing until his sudden death. He was a friar who accomplished things without fanfare and was viewed as a compassionate and caring man.

He died on Feb. 14, 1992 in Yulan. Fr. Timothy was 62 years old, a professed friar for 34 years and a priest for 29 years.