(KNSI) – A man considered by many to be the heart and soul of St. John’s University has died.
Father Don Talafous has an 80-year connection to the school, dating back to 1943, when he first stepped onto campus as a freshman at the age of 17. He received an undergraduate degree and entered the seminary. Once Talafous finished his studies, he was sent to St. Augustine’s College in the Bahamas for two years. This was followed by a stint at St. Anselm’s Parish in the Bronx, New York.
Other than a brief time in Berkeley, California, in the late 1960s, Talafous lived his life in Collegeville. He was a member of the faculty and theology professor for roughly 40 years before becoming an alumni chaplain in retirement.
Talafous was best known for his impeccable memory. He could recall the names of students dating back to the 1950s with ease, which served him well as chaplain. Talafous loved reading and coffee, as well.
A reception has been scheduled for Tuesday, April 15th, at 7:00 p.m. at St. John’s Abbey and University Church. The Mass will be Wednesday at 3:30 p.m.
Talafous was 99 years old.
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