The Rev. Father Russel J. Abata, C.Ss.R., died on Monday, October 20th at New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York City. Father Abata was born in North East, Pa. He attended John Carroll University in Cleveland and Grove City College, Grove City, Pa. Following graduation he joined the Redemptorists Father's and was ordained June 23rd, 1957. …
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The Rev. Father Russel J. Abata, C.Ss.R., died on Monday, October 20th at New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York City. Father Abata was born in North East, Pa. He attended John Carroll University in Cleveland and Grove City College, Grove City, Pa. Following graduation he joined the Redemptorists Father's and was ordained June 23rd, 1957. He earned his Doctorate in Sacred Theology at the Pontifical College in Rome. Father Abata taught theology at St. Alfonse's seminary, New York, Seton Hall University, South Orange and Fordham University, New York City. Father had run several missions through out the United States. Father was stationed in New York City and Long Branch at San Alfonso Retreat House. He celebrated masses for many years at St. Michael's RC Church, Long Branch. While assisting at St. Michael's Father, performed many weddings, baptisms and funerals. He enjoyed cooking especially for his family and was an avid gardener and was the author of numerous books. Father was pre-deceased by his loving family; his parents, Josephine and Joseph Abata; two sisters, Josephine Abata and Jean Wojtowicz; seven brothers, Joseph, Frank, Sam,Tony, Vincent, John and Louie Abata. Surviving Father Abata are numerous loving nieces and nephews. Father Abata will be received by Father Gowen, Friday, October 24th, 12 noon at St. Michael's RC Church, Ocean Avenue, Long Branch. Father will lie in State at St. Michael's until 5pm and again on Saturday, October 25th, from 8 am until 10 am. Father's Abata funeral mass will be celebrated by The Rev. Father Moley, Provincial of the Redemptorists Father's. Father will be interred at St. Gregory's Cemetery, North East, Pa. Wednesday, October 29th. Remembrances of Father may be made by visiting Father Abata's Book of Memories at www.woolleyboglioli.com.
The Campbell Family
left a message on December 7, 2015:
A candle was lit by The Campbell Family on 2015/12/07
Ted
left a message on November 26, 2015:
A candle was lit by Ted on 2015/11/26
Jim Norris
left a message on November 10, 2015:
A candle was lit by Jim Norris on 2015/11/10
Anita and John Maier
left a message on November 7, 2015:
Many years ago while Fr. Russell was assisting at St. John's Parish in the small town of Dunellen, NJ, he gave his usual uplifting homily and ended with one of the corniest jokes we had ever heard. His response to the groans from the pews was....'Hey, anything worth doing is worth doing poorly.' The laughter was warm and friendly and it set the tone for our friendship. He easily became a family friend, kidding with the kids and reaching out to us as a couple. He walked his garden in Dunellen while hearing our individual confessions, came to the house to trim the grape vines and planted eggplants. He planted so much more in our hearts....a spiritual joy that we are all loved by the Father and that He knows and cares for each of us by name. Over the years his poem cards at Easter and Christmas were always inspiring spiritually as well as poetically. And who can forget his renowned books. Each one stretched our souls to new heights. What a gifted man and priest he was. He held our hands in hard times and hugged us through some difficulties. He shared our joy at our daughters weddings and always ended 'Grace' with the 'Bricks' joke! He leaves us smiling but with tears in our eyes. Loving him and missing him is what we will continue to do. But smiling too, because Russell is with Our Lord living the eternal life he so richly deserved. With love, Anita and John Maier
Tony Mignone
left a message on November 6, 2015:
A candle was lit by Tony Mignone on 2015/11/06
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Doreen Dunbar
left a message on November 2, 2015:
A candle was lit by Doreen Dunbar on 2015/11/02
Tony Mignone
left a message on October 27, 2015:
A candle was lit by Tony Mignone on 2015/10/27
Lane Romanick (Abata) Niece (psuedo daughter)
left a message on October 26, 2015:
A candle was lit by Lane Romanick (Abata) Niece (psuedo daughter) on 2015/10/26
Bill McKenna
left a message on October 25, 2015:
A candle was lit by Bill McKenna on 2015/10/25
Love always the Chavez/Wilson Family
left a message on October 24, 2015:
A candle was lit by Love always the Chavez/Wilson Family on 2015/10/24
Nancy Greenberg
left a message on October 24, 2015:
A candle was lit by Nancy Greenberg on 2015/10/24
Judith Mastronardi
left a message on October 24, 2015:
A candle was lit by Judith Mastronardi on 2015/10/24
barbara Coats
left a message on October 24, 2015:
RIP Old Friend .We all enjoyed your upbeat, sincere and loving attitude even if the jokes were corney except during Lent .You are up there looking down at us and knowning we will be there someday with you .
Christine Gigliuto
left a message on October 24, 2015:
I met Fr.Abata when I went to the retreat house with my mom. I loved his sermons and his writings and I had asked for him to pray with me to help find a husband. I was a successful 33 year old physician with a great family but couldn't seem to find my soulmate. Then in December 1993 I found Ralph and we were engaged by Easter. My husband was a teacher and we wanted to marry that summer but my pastor was reluctant as we weren't engaged for one year. Unfortunately he went so far as to accuse us of "other reasons" for getting married. We were both older, successful and just wanted to start our lives together. That is when I contacted Fr.Abata and not only did he step in but he also performed the wedding ceremony. We were married in a traditional wedding at St.Gertrude's Church and it was the wedding and ultimately marriage I always dreamed of. My husband is a Lutheran and has always been supportive of my faith,the faith we have also raised our now 14 year old son with which we were blessed despite almost losing him at birth. I always felt Fr.Abata's wonderful personality and kind words as well as his support for my family showed my husband and his family how wonderful the Catholic religion can be. I believe strongly he was welcomed into Jesus' loving arms. Rest in peace Father, and please continue to remember us as we will never forget you.
Patty Chavez
left a message on October 24, 2015:
Dear Father Abata, I would like to thank you for all that you did for the Religious Education Dept. You were always there to help me out with the Family Masses for the children, coming to CCD to have a question and answer session, and First Penance. Also all of our fun times at the Outreach Center you always had a way of making us laugh!!! Nothing will be the same now that you are gone but I will always cherish the times we had with you."But before you Go" will forever be my fondest memory of you. RIP my dear friend. Love Patty
Amanda Wagner
left a message on October 24, 2015:
Father Russell was my great uncle. While it has been years since I've seen him, I remember him fondly. I remember him as a child with being somewhere with huge candy bars. I remember him helping my mom through her illness. I remember seeing him last in Rome. He gave my sister and I a tour of different churches, all while still quick to crack a joke. He made sure he "protected" us from those Italian men! He was an incredible man. I wish I could pay my respects in person. Love you Uncle Russell!
Beth Maino
left a message on October 23, 2015:
A candle was lit by Beth Maino on 2015/10/23
Meghan H.
left a message on October 23, 2015:
A candle was lit by Meghan H. on 2015/10/23
irene & Chas Boles-Petry
left a message on October 23, 2015:
I first heard one of Fr. Abata's riveting sermons years ago while my husband was on travel. When he came home, I told him: "You must come to St. Michaels next week and hear this phenomenal priest whose sermons will mesmorize you." And so we did. Fr. Abata was also very helpful to me with counseling some time ago. A wonderful, warm, down to earth marvelous human being that we will miss so very, very much. "Do you not think an angel rides in the whirlwind, directing the storm?" Whenever we need an angel down the road, we're going to call on him.
Robin from Spring Lake
left a message on October 22, 2015:
A candle was lit by Robin from Spring Lake on 2015/10/22
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Caroline Rehm
left a message on October 22, 2015:
A candle was lit by Caroline Rehm on 2015/10/22
Cathy Stewart
left a message on October 21, 2015:
And before you go.....thank you Fr.Abata
Rosemary
left a message on October 21, 2015:
Fr. Russell used to walk almost everywhere and quite often I would see him walking on Ocean Avenue near San Alfonso Retreat House. Anyone who knows me knows I can be somewhat outrageous. Therefore, no one should be surprised to know that, upon seeing him walking as I was driving, I'd pull down my car windows and yell out, 'HELLO' or 'HIYA, Handsome!' It was never intended to be disrespectful ... it was just a term of endearment and deep affection. He'd smile and wave, sometimes shaking his head at my audacity. I observed that, no matter how hot, Fr. Russell always wore his clericals. I liked that ... it told me he was proud of his vocation. What would a memory of this dear, sweet man be without remembering the JOKES?! Some were one snap while others were real screamers. I hope that, as he lay in his bed, waiting for the Lord to take him home, that he got some time to practice ... now he will have an infinite audience. RIP, FR. RUSSELL! I hope you know I loved you and I shall miss you. You were a kind friend, a devout prIest and you made me laugh. GOD BLESS YOU.
Tammy
left a message on September 15, 2015:
A candle was lit by Tammy on 2015/09/15
Dorothy Zuncic
left a message on July 18, 2015:
A candle was lit by Dorothy Zuncic on 2015/07/18
Sister Maria Magdalena, CSSF
left a message on June 7, 2015:
A candle was lit by Sister Maria Magdalena, CSSF on 2015/06/07
Tammy O'Connor-Lockett
left a message on January 31, 2014:
A candle was lit by Tammy O'Connor-Lockett on 2014/01/31
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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The Campbell Family
left a message on December 7, 2015:
A candle was lit by The Campbell Family on 2015/12/07
Ted
left a message on November 26, 2015:
A candle was lit by Ted on 2015/11/26
Jim Norris
left a message on November 10, 2015:
A candle was lit by Jim Norris on 2015/11/10
Anita and John Maier
left a message on November 7, 2015:
Many years ago while Fr. Russell was assisting at St. John's Parish in the small town of Dunellen, NJ, he gave his usual uplifting homily and ended with one of the corniest jokes we had ever heard. His response to the groans from the pews was....'Hey, anything worth doing is worth doing poorly.' The laughter was warm and friendly and it set the tone for our friendship. He easily became a family friend, kidding with the kids and reaching out to us as a couple. He walked his garden in Dunellen while hearing our individual confessions, came to the house to trim the grape vines and planted eggplants. He planted so much more in our hearts....a spiritual joy that we are all loved by the Father and that He knows and cares for each of us by name. Over the years his poem cards at Easter and Christmas were always inspiring spiritually as well as poetically. And who can forget his renowned books. Each one stretched our souls to new heights. What a gifted man and priest he was. He held our hands in hard times and hugged us through some difficulties. He shared our joy at our daughters weddings and always ended 'Grace' with the 'Bricks' joke! He leaves us smiling but with tears in our eyes. Loving him and missing him is what we will continue to do. But smiling too, because Russell is with Our Lord living the eternal life he so richly deserved. With love, Anita and John Maier
Tony Mignone
left a message on November 6, 2015:
A candle was lit by Tony Mignone on 2015/11/06
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Doreen Dunbar
left a message on November 2, 2015:
A candle was lit by Doreen Dunbar on 2015/11/02
Tony Mignone
left a message on October 27, 2015:
A candle was lit by Tony Mignone on 2015/10/27
Lane Romanick (Abata) Niece (psuedo daughter)
left a message on October 26, 2015:
A candle was lit by Lane Romanick (Abata) Niece (psuedo daughter) on 2015/10/26
Bill McKenna
left a message on October 25, 2015:
A candle was lit by Bill McKenna on 2015/10/25
Love always the Chavez/Wilson Family
left a message on October 24, 2015:
A candle was lit by Love always the Chavez/Wilson Family on 2015/10/24
Nancy Greenberg
left a message on October 24, 2015:
A candle was lit by Nancy Greenberg on 2015/10/24
Judith Mastronardi
left a message on October 24, 2015:
A candle was lit by Judith Mastronardi on 2015/10/24
barbara Coats
left a message on October 24, 2015:
RIP Old Friend .We all enjoyed your upbeat, sincere and loving attitude even if the jokes were corney except during Lent .You are up there looking down at us and knowning we will be there someday with you .
Christine Gigliuto
left a message on October 24, 2015:
I met Fr.Abata when I went to the retreat house with my mom. I loved his sermons and his writings and I had asked for him to pray with me to help find a husband. I was a successful 33 year old physician with a great family but couldn't seem to find my soulmate. Then in December 1993 I found Ralph and we were engaged by Easter. My husband was a teacher and we wanted to marry that summer but my pastor was reluctant as we weren't engaged for one year. Unfortunately he went so far as to accuse us of "other reasons" for getting married. We were both older, successful and just wanted to start our lives together. That is when I contacted Fr.Abata and not only did he step in but he also performed the wedding ceremony. We were married in a traditional wedding at St.Gertrude's Church and it was the wedding and ultimately marriage I always dreamed of. My husband is a Lutheran and has always been supportive of my faith,the faith we have also raised our now 14 year old son with which we were blessed despite almost losing him at birth. I always felt Fr.Abata's wonderful personality and kind words as well as his support for my family showed my husband and his family how wonderful the Catholic religion can be. I believe strongly he was welcomed into Jesus' loving arms. Rest in peace Father, and please continue to remember us as we will never forget you.
Patty Chavez
left a message on October 24, 2015:
Dear Father Abata, I would like to thank you for all that you did for the Religious Education Dept. You were always there to help me out with the Family Masses for the children, coming to CCD to have a question and answer session, and First Penance. Also all of our fun times at the Outreach Center you always had a way of making us laugh!!! Nothing will be the same now that you are gone but I will always cherish the times we had with you."But before you Go" will forever be my fondest memory of you. RIP my dear friend. Love Patty
Amanda Wagner
left a message on October 24, 2015:
Father Russell was my great uncle. While it has been years since I've seen him, I remember him fondly. I remember him as a child with being somewhere with huge candy bars. I remember him helping my mom through her illness. I remember seeing him last in Rome. He gave my sister and I a tour of different churches, all while still quick to crack a joke. He made sure he "protected" us from those Italian men! He was an incredible man. I wish I could pay my respects in person. Love you Uncle Russell!
Beth Maino
left a message on October 23, 2015:
A candle was lit by Beth Maino on 2015/10/23
Meghan H.
left a message on October 23, 2015:
A candle was lit by Meghan H. on 2015/10/23
irene & Chas Boles-Petry
left a message on October 23, 2015:
I first heard one of Fr. Abata's riveting sermons years ago while my husband was on travel. When he came home, I told him: "You must come to St. Michaels next week and hear this phenomenal priest whose sermons will mesmorize you." And so we did. Fr. Abata was also very helpful to me with counseling some time ago. A wonderful, warm, down to earth marvelous human being that we will miss so very, very much. "Do you not think an angel rides in the whirlwind, directing the storm?" Whenever we need an angel down the road, we're going to call on him.
Robin from Spring Lake
left a message on October 22, 2015:
A candle was lit by Robin from Spring Lake on 2015/10/22
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Caroline Rehm
left a message on October 22, 2015:
A candle was lit by Caroline Rehm on 2015/10/22
Cathy Stewart
left a message on October 21, 2015:
And before you go.....thank you Fr.Abata
Rosemary
left a message on October 21, 2015:
Fr. Russell used to walk almost everywhere and quite often I would see him walking on Ocean Avenue near San Alfonso Retreat House. Anyone who knows me knows I can be somewhat outrageous. Therefore, no one should be surprised to know that, upon seeing him walking as I was driving, I'd pull down my car windows and yell out, 'HELLO' or 'HIYA, Handsome!' It was never intended to be disrespectful ... it was just a term of endearment and deep affection. He'd smile and wave, sometimes shaking his head at my audacity. I observed that, no matter how hot, Fr. Russell always wore his clericals. I liked that ... it told me he was proud of his vocation. What would a memory of this dear, sweet man be without remembering the JOKES?! Some were one snap while others were real screamers. I hope that, as he lay in his bed, waiting for the Lord to take him home, that he got some time to practice ... now he will have an infinite audience. RIP, FR. RUSSELL! I hope you know I loved you and I shall miss you. You were a kind friend, a devout prIest and you made me laugh. GOD BLESS YOU.
Tammy
left a message on September 15, 2015:
A candle was lit by Tammy on 2015/09/15
Dorothy Zuncic
left a message on July 18, 2015:
A candle was lit by Dorothy Zuncic on 2015/07/18
Sister Maria Magdalena, CSSF
left a message on June 7, 2015:
A candle was lit by Sister Maria Magdalena, CSSF on 2015/06/07
Tammy O'Connor-Lockett
left a message on January 31, 2014:
A candle was lit by Tammy O'Connor-Lockett on 2014/01/31
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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