Dear Editor: I was a child of seven when I met Father Marion Gural. I think it was love at first sight! He was in charge of both my First Holy Communion and later my Confirmation classes.

I believe that he loved all children because if there was something, anything, involving children he was there. He took us roller skating, into the city (to march in the Pulaski Day Parade and then onto Radio City Music Hall), every Christmas Eve he was right there making sure the procession was perfect, the same thing with St. Josaphat’s 59th anniversary and every bazaar, dance or celebration. Living right next to the church he often had dinner with our family, as did Father Joe once he arrived.

We moved away just as I was becoming a teenager, but we stayed in touch through the years. He always remembered my birthday, and if he had my address, never failed to send Christmas and birthday cards.

To say that I loved him will never be enough. He is responsible for teaching me to love our Lord and Savior, Jesus and most especially the Holy Mother of us all.

I’m no longer young but he is still close to my heart and I shall love him always.

SUSAN KOTSAY

Tablet Website

Editor’s Note: Father Gural died June 5, 2015.