Fr Joseph Crehan RIP

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Fr Joseph Crehan SSC
(1929 - 2008)

Fr Joseph Crehan SSC died at St Columbans, Bristol, RI, on April 1st. 2008. Born in Dorchester, MA in 1929, he joined the Columban Fathers and was ordained to the priesthood in 1954.

After ordination he was assigned to mission work in Japan until 1970. He was then reassigned as Bursar and Dean at the Columban Major Seminary in Milton, MA. As Dean in the Major Seminary he was very close to the students. He had kind words for everyone. Joe was a man of quiet prayer. Fr Joe was a quiet, humble person.

In September of 1979 Father Crehan was assigned to Immaculate Conception parish in Everett, MA. His ministry was the care of the sick and dying.

In July of 2000 because of failing health, he moved to the Columban Fathers Retirement House, Bristol, RI.

He lived his life for others. He was a great promoter of the Columban Missions just like his friend and mentor, Fr. Owen McGrath. Every morning he browsed the obituaries from the Boston Globe checking to see if he knew anyone - relative, friend or Columban benefactor. He attended many wakes and funerals around Boston. If he wasn't at the afternoon service he surely would be at the evening session.
Father Crehan was predeceased by his parents, John & Margaret (Curry) Crehan, and his brother, James Francis Crehan. 

He is survived by his brother, William & his wife, Ann Crehan, of Raynham, MA and by his nieces and nephews.

Fr Crehan will be waked in St Columban’s Chapel, 65 Ferry Road, Bristol, R.I on Friday, April 4, from 4 - 8 p.m.

Funeral Mass on Saturday, April 5 at 11 a.m., in St. Columban’s Chapel, followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bristol, RI.

May he rest in Peace.