Br. Francis Mutter (1919-2001)

Watched with love and concern by confreres, oblates, health care workers and friends, Brother Francis died the eve of Passion Sunday, April 8, 200l.  His was a quiet ending of a quiet life. 

John Mutter came to St. Benedict’s Abbey in 1953.  He had received his elementary education at Guardian Angel’s School, Kansas City, Mo., a year at De LaSalle Military Academy, and trade school instruction at Lathrop Polytechnic Institute.  For a time he worked in the family construction business and later with his father at defense plants in Iowa and Colorado.

John was drafted into the United States Army in 1942 and served in a construction battalion in New Guinea and the Philippines.  Once while operating a bulldozer he was shot at.  Upon his return from the Army he went to work with his father.  He entered St. Benedict’s Abbey and made first vows June 13, 1954.  For 20 years he worked at poultry and egg production and later as a gardener with Brother Anthony Vorwerk, novices, Father Placidus Keiffer and others.  Once he Father Anthony Reilman partnered up with Wilson Meat Company in an attempt to raise confined chickens.  The attempt was short lived. 

Brother Francis was a quiet man but could make himself known.  He loved working in the outdoors and was beloved by his confreres.   His fellow workers dedicated Mutter Rest Haven, a small grove behind the abbey, in his honor.