1931 – 2016

Words of Remembrance for Brother Casimir Gundlach, FSC

(February 3, 1931 – December 18, 2016)
by Brother Edward Phelan, FSC

At the request of Brother Casimir’s family members, Brother has been cremated, and his cremains will be held until a memorial liturgy that will take place in Albany, NY, on May 20, 2017, followed by burial at St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, NY.
Details will be sent closer to the service and burial.

 

In his 85 years, Brother Casimir Gundlach lived and worked for short periods of time in faraway places like the Bronx, Detroit, Syracuse and Lincroft.  But his real home was in Albany, New York, where he taught, administered schools and raised money for Christian Brothers Academy for almost 40 years.

Cas always gave special attention to students who struggled.  He stayed with them until they got their feet on the ground.  They always knew he was on their side. Many stayed in communication with him throughout his life.

He had a great love for the theatre and the arts.  Over the years, he produced many musicals in his schools.  He belonged to choirs in every place where he lived.  For the last three years of his life, his presence was heard throughout the halls of De La Salle Hall each time he would launch into his distinctive arias.  Some called them cantatas, but I prefer simply to consider them Cas’ own operas.  Those in listening range were compelled by his rendition to pause in their path and respond with a warm smile.

Likewise, Brother Cas Gundlach always had a smile for everyone.  He was known for his ability to form relationships with people that lasted a lifetime.  Ask any of his coworkers over the years and they will say he was simply charming.  He treated others always as he wanted to be treated. He loved so many people and made them feel important.  He carried himself with dignity and was a snazzy dresser.

Of course, we all know that Cas, throughout his life, expressed his characteristic ability to relate in his love for horses.  They always responded in kind.  He loved to show and ride and, I think, jump.  A special treat while being at De La Salle Hall was the wonderful occasions when Mike drove him to the local horse farm in Lincroft. Cas was all-smiles for days after.

To his sisters: Regina, we all know how much he meant to you and Alice of fond memory, because he meant the same to all of us De La Salle Christian Brothers and the staff at De La Salle Hall.

Cas, may you live in our hearts forever.

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Brother Casimir Gundlach, FSC

Born Alfred Carl Gundlach in Albany, NY, on February 3, 1931

Entered the Barrytown, NY, Novitiate on September 15, 1949

Received the Religious Habit and Name, Brother Casimir Leo, on November 20, 1949

Pronounced Perpetual Vows in Troy, NY, on September 2, 1956

Died at De La Salle Hall, Lincroft, NJ, on December 18, 2016

 

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:

Monday, December 26, 2016

Viewing from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

De La Salle Hall
810 Newman Springs Road
Lincroft, NJ 07738-1608

At the request of Brother Casimir’s family members, Brother will be cremated and the cremains will be held until spring 2017.
A memorial liturgy will take place in Albany followed burial at St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, NY.
Details will be sent close to the date of the service and burial.

SUFFRAGES FOR OUR DECEASED BROTHER CASIMIR:

District: 50 masses
De La Salle Hall community: 30 masses
Each community in the District: 1 mass

Brother Casimir passed away suddenly and peacefully during the morning in his room. May he rest in peace.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1952-1956
teacher
New York, NY
Sacred Heart School

1956-1960
teacher
New York, NY
Incarnation School

1960-1961
teacher
Bronx, NY
St. John’s School

1961-1968
teacher (high school department)
Albany, NY
La Salle School

1968-1975
teacher
Albany, NY
Christian Brothers Academy

1975-1979
principal
Albany, NY
Christ the King School
(residence at CBA, Albany)

1979-1982
vice-principal
Detroit, MI
De La Salle Collegiate

1982-1985
principal
Albany, NY
La Salle School

1985-1985
renewal (Feb-May)
Santa Fe, NM
Sangre de Cristo Center

1985-1987
vice-principal
Warren, MI
De La Salle Collegiate

1987-1992
vice-principal
Syracuse, NY
Christian Brothers Academy

1992-2000
director
Warren, MI
De La Salle Collegiate

2000-2013
development office
Albany, NY
Christian Brothers Academy

2013-2016
resident
Lincroft, NJ
De La Salle Hall