Rev. Andrew J. Dunne, O.S.F.S., passed away on July 23 at St. Luke's Hospital in Maumee, Ohio at the age of 87. Father Dunne was born to Peter and Eleanor Dunne on Dec. 29, 1928, in Wayne, Pa. He earned a philosophy degree in 1956 and degrees in music and education at the Catholic University of America four years later. He made his first profession as an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales in 1950 and after completing graduate studies at DeSales School of Theology was ordained to the priesthood in 1959.
After ordination, Father Dunne taught briefly at Father Judge High School in Philadelphia and Aquinas High School in Southgate, Mich., and 13 years at Bishop Duffy High School in Niagara Falls. In 1972, he was appointed associate pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Michigan Center, Mich., before becoming pastor in 1974. Father Dunne served the good people there for 34 years. During his tenure, he oversaw the parish’s Catholic elementary school and the construction of a new church.
Father Dunne was a very approachable and deeply spiritual priest with a quick wit and lively personality. He brought joy to Oblates, friends, family, and parishioners. He also was an accomplished musician who played the piano, sang and, earlier in life, tap-danced. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Fatima on July 28 at 10:30 a.m. The interment will take place July 29 at Resurrection Cemetery, 5725 Hill Ave., Toledo, Ohio.