Memorial Mass and Supper to honor beloved priest

The Father Stephen Gutgsell Memorial Mass and Supper will be held Dec. 10, the anniversary of the day he was killed during an early morning home invasion at the rectory of the St. John the Baptist Parish in Fort Calhoun.

Father Gutgsell, who was 65 when he died of multiple stab wounds in the attack, was the pastoral administrator of the parish. The beloved priest is remembered fondly by the many people he served at St. John the Baptist, St. Francis Borgia in Blair and St. Patrick in Tekamah.

Parishioner Cindy Pallas, who participated in a Bible study led by Father Gutgsell, was impressed with his intelligence and vast knowledge of Scripture. “He explained everything so everybody understood.”

She also remembers his nonjudgmental attitude. “You could talk to him about anything, and he would remind you that everyone is a sinner and that we can be forgiven … and to repent and learn from our mistakes.”

The casket of the Rev. Stephen J. Gutgsell processes through St. Cecilia Cathedral at his funeral Mass Dec. 18, 2023.
BOB ERVIN

Father Gutgsell spent a great deal of time in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and rehabilitation centers, ministering to the sick and the suffering. He also was a dedicated supporter of the St. John Paul II Classical Academy in Blair, where an annual scholarship dinner and fundraiser is held in his name.

All are welcome to attend the 6:30 p.m. Mass and stay for supper in the parish basement immediately after the Mass. Children are invited to bring a flower to offer at Mass.

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