Fr. Camillus J. Doerfler, Cap

Camillus Doerfler, Capuchin
Kaukauna, WI
Age 85, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 4, 2004 at St. Paul Nursing Facility, Kaukauna, WI. He was born on February 8, 1919 in Appleton, WI, his parents being Henry Doerfler and Elizabeth Welbes, both of whom are deceased. He attended
St. Joseph Grade school. Upon graduating he went to St. Lawrence Seminary, Mt. Calvary, WI.

After graduating from St. Lawrence in 1937, Camillus decided to become a Capuchin. He was invested with the Capuchin habit on August 26, 1937. On August 27, 1938, he pronounced his first vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. Three years later, on August 29, 1941, he pronounced his solemn vows. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 16, 1945 at Marathon, WI.

In 1946, Camillus became a missionary to Nicaragua. He was to spend the next 52 years serving the peoples of the Atlantic Coast. During his tenure there he served as pastor to various places, Bluefields, Corn Island, and Puerto Cabezas. He was known to be a cheerful man who was well loved by his many friends. Camillus loved to play little jokes on his Capuchins brethren as well on his parishioners and other friends. He was a very faithful member of the Lions Club, both here in the United States as well as in Nicaragua.

Camillus is survived by a brother, Joseph Doerfler, Capuchin (Appleton); a sister, Theresa Schumacher (Little Chute); a sister-in-law, Germaine Doerfler (Appleton). He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Doerfler and Elizabeth Welbes; his brothers: Henry and George; his sisters: Dorothy Kottmer and Catherine Doerfler; two brothers-in-law: Thomas Kottmer and Clarence Schumacher; and a sister-in-law Verna Doerfler. He is also survived by nine nieces and nephews.

There will be visitation from 4 PM until 8 PM on Sunday, August, 8, 2004 at the funeral home, with a prayer service starting at 7 PM. There will also be visitation at St. Joseph Catholic Church (410 W. Lawrence St.) Appleton on Monday, August 9, 2004 from 9 AM until 10:30 AM, followed by the Liturgy of Christian Burial. Father Daniel Anholzer Cap., Father John Doerfler and Bishop Paul Schmitz will Con Celebrate the Mass. Interment will take place in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Appleton.

The Capuchin Brothers of St. Fidelis Friary and the family of Camillus express profound gratitude to the staff at FranCare and St. Paul Elder services for the very Christian care they gave to our brother, Camillus Doerfler. Camillus had become one of your family and you showed your love and concern for him each day, especially when there were difficult times. Thank you for your patience and understanding. And God bless each and every one of you.