Rev. Joseph K. Perry, O.S.A. (1909 - 1973)
Rev. Joseph K. Perry, O.S.A. entered eternal life on March 17, 1973.
Joseph Kenneth Perry was born on August 17, 1909 in Fountain, Minnesota to John and Mary (Murphy) Perry. He was baptized on September 19, 1909 at St. Laurence O'Toole Catholic Church, Fountain. He received the Sacrament of Confirmation on June 12, 1921 in the same church.
After receiving his elementary education in Filmore County public schools in Fountain, Joseph studied for one year at Fountain Junior High School. He then enrolled in St. John High School, Rochester, Minnesota, where he earned his diploma.
In 1933, after working as a clerk, Joseph entered the Augustinian program of formation at Augustinian Academy, Staten Island, New York. He did post-graduate studies there for a year. He was then received into the Augustinian Novitiate on September 10, 1934. He professed simple (temporary) vows in the Order of St. Augustine on September 11, 1935 and solemn (permanent) vows three years later.
Joseph earned a B.A. in Philosophy from Villanova College, Villanova, Pennsylvania, in 1939. He then pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C. He was ordained a priest on May 28, 1942. He did additional studies in English Literature and Engineering at Catholic University of America, Washington.
In 1943, Father Perry was assigned to St. Rita High School, Chicago, Illinois. He was transferred in 1946 to St. Monica Seminary, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and he remained there until the time of his death in 1973. Among his positions held there over the years were Director of Monican Press, Sub-Master of Novices, and Director of Formation for Brothers not aspiring to the Priesthood.
Father Perry is remembered for his persistent yet fraternal efforts to prepare the Augustinian Brothers for their life and work in a variety of community settings. He was a well-known preacher and retreat director in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. People found him to be wise and compassionate, and many visited St. Monica to seek his counsel.
Father Perry is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, Illinois.
Memorial gifts may be made to: The Midwest Augustinians, 10161 S Longwood Dr, Chicago, IL 60643-2032 or via our Online Giving Page.
