Ditenhafer, Father John
Fortified with The Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Sat., June 9, 2018 at the age of 83, served many different ministries and parishes in the Archdiocese of St Louis during his 57 years as a priest. Born on May 22, 1935, in St. Louis, John was ordained a priest on March 18, 1961, by Cardinal Joseph E. Ritter.
Father John taught at DuBourg and Rosati-Kain High Schools, Prep Seminary North and Maryville College. His parish assignments included Mary, Queen of Peace, St Angela Merici, St. Peter in Kirkwood, Our Lady in Festus, Christ the King in University City and, for the last 12 years, Annunziata Parish. His parishioners remember him for his gentle presence and pastoral style that extended beyond the altar and into their homes and their families.
Father John is survived by his nephew John Michael Cullen (Kathleen) and his nieces Ann Marie Cullen, Catherine Cullen, Meghan Ploesser (Michael) and Brigid Pelster (Jason) their families, and many, many wonderful friends. John will be remembered as a gentle, generous soul, much beloved by those who knew him.
Services:A Memorial Mass celebrating Father John’s life will be held on Wed., June 20 at the Church of the Annunziata, 9305 Clayton Road, Ladue at 11 a.m.
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