Fr. Charles Stoeckle (1858-1903)

Father Charles was born in Bamberg, Ontario, Canada.  He came to the United States with his family at age 10 and settled in Doniphan County.  At the age of 17 he went to St. Benedict’s College, received the Benedictine habit on June 28, 1876, and entered the novitiate July 11, 1878.  He did all his studies at St. Benedict’s and was ordained to the priesthood March 30, 1884. 

Father Charles taught commercial courses at the college and was procurator of the Abbey 1888-1890.  In 1890 he was appointed pastor of St. Benedict’s Parish, Atchison, and was characterized by the Daily Globe as “probably the most popular priest the church ever had.  His work among the sick during the smallpox epidemic of 1894 and at other times will be recalled and was revered by people regardless of religious conviction.” 

In 1898 he was director of the college and the following year Abbot Innocent appointed him pastor at Sts. Peter and Paul, Seneca, Kan.  He also organized St. Bede Parish, Kelly, Kan.  He was very solicitous in helping the young farmers to find good places in both parishes. 

Following a gall bladder operation, March 19, 1903, Father Charles died at Seneca, April 14, 1903 at age 44.  A train bought his body to Atchison for burial that consisted of 400 mourners of all faiths. 

The procession to St. Benedict’s Church extended all the way from the depot in town.  Preceding the pilgrimage to Atchison there was memorial services at the Methodist Church in Seneca where Father Charles was praised highly.  Among those paying tribute was Governor A.J. Felt of Seneca.