Remembering Two Men
Named Tom Dueppen
Submitted by Ron Leonhardt
For purposes of this article, I will refer to Tom Dueppen Sr. and his son Tom Jr. who recently passed away, joining his father in eternal life. Tom Sr. had been an active member of the Ellacuria ministry for many years and had visited the community in El Salvador numerous times, some with committee delegations, and also often by himself. The residents of Ellacuria referred to him as Tio (uncle) Tom, and he was much loved and respected by them. He was especially passionate about supporting the youth and donated significant personal funds to provide scholarships.
In 2023 Tom Jr. decided to join our delegation to Ellacuria. He had not been a member of our committee, but he wanted to personally see what his father was so passionate about. As a hydrologist he was especially interested in their water system, which he was able to inspect and provide testing kits and train members of their water committee in how to use them to detect bacteria. He also met with a group of young people who had benefitted from the scholarships provided by his father.
Both of our Tom Dueppens were shining examples of the difference one person can make in helping our brothers and sisters in Ellacuria. May God hold them in eternal peace.
Ellacuria Fair Trade Sale Next Weekend
After Masses on April 5-6, support the twinning relationship we have had since 1990 with our sisters and brothers in Ellacuria, El Salvador with your purchase of:
Chocolate Bars | Olive Oil | Coffee | Hot Cocoa
Cash or check only, please.