Patrick E Fereday, OFM

BUTLER - Brother Patrick E. Fereday, O.F.M., age 70, a professed Franciscan Friar 34 years, died early Sunday, July 20, after a long illness.

Brother Patrick headed the maintenance department at St. Anthony Friary, Butler, NJ the past 30 years. He was known as a woodworking artisan, who also crafted stained glass.

A native of Waterloo, Iowa, Brother Patrick earned a Theology degree from Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa prior to entering the Franciscan Friars. His encyclopedic knowledge of the physical plant of St. Anthony Friary led him to compile a book of documents to guide future maintenance leaders.

In the 1990s and early 2000's Brother Patrick collaborated with the late Jim "Butch" Struble, Custodian of St. Anthony Church, Butler, on projects benefiting both institutions.

Major building projects at St. Anthony Friary unfolded under Brother Patrick's watchful eyes. A 2006-2007 renovation of living quarters involved floors three through five. The 2020-2021 addition of a large-capacity elevator encased in a new tower at the North side enhanced safety and security.

In recent years the relocation and expansion of the St. Anthony Parish Food Pantry showcased Brother Patrick's talent in converting the former St. Anthony School library into a facility serving the needy citizens of surrounding counties.

Brother Patrick's enthusiasm for University of Iowa Hawkeye Football demonstrated itself in his often-worn "IOWA"-emblazoned winter jacket. On errands around town, the dark gray Miniature Schnauzer mix "Ella" would often accompany Brother Patrick, to the delight of onlookers. Tropical fish abounded in tanks, brightening Brother Patrick's Friary basement workshop.

Brother Patrick is survived by his Franciscan confreres in Our Lady of Guadalupe Province. He is also survived by his brother Thomas and sister-in-law Sharon Fereday of Waterloo, Iowa. Also survived by nephews and their spouses: Christopher (Megan) Fereday; Charles (the late Angela Lefler) Fereday; Andrew (Ann Marie) Fereday, all of Iowa.

Visitation: Friday, July 25, 2025, 10:00 a.m., St. Anthony Church, 65 Bartholdi Ave., Butler, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m., also at St. Anthony Church. Burial in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Butler immediately following mass.