CSB/SJU Mourns Loss of Father Rene McGraw

(KNSI) – A long-time teacher and priest for the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University passed away Sunday.

Father Rene McGraw died in the retirement center at Saint John’s Abbey at 87. School officials say McGraw was a dedicated teacher, advisor and mentor for nearly 60 years.

McGraw was a founding member of the peace studies program, served as chair of the philosophy and peace studies departments and was on numerous standing academic committees. He served five terms on the Saint John’s Board of Regents and Trustees.

School Provost Richard Ice said his commitment to his students and his vital service to CSB and SJU were legendary. Ice went on to say that McGraw was an inspiration and mentor to countless students, serving as a faculty resident and faculty member in philosophy and peace studies with a dedication to social justice.

McGraw joined Saint John’s Abbey in 1955 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1962. He received a master’s in philosophy from Duquesne University and a doctorate from the University of Paris.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the Abbey and University Church, with interment in the Abbey cemetery.

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