Our fellow friar of the Sacred heart Province, Br. Theo Ballmann, ofm died at the age of 76 on Monday December 10 at St. Mary's Home Felician Village Manitowoc, IL. His transition to heaven was one of peace and anticipation.

Br. Theo whose original name was Richard was born to Joseph Ballmann and Hedwig (nee Feldman) Ballmann on January 24, 1936 in Dutzow, MO. Br. Theo was received into the Franciscan community on February 11, 1955 and was given the name Theophane. He entered the First Order novitiate on June 22, 1958 and was received by then provincial, Fr. Pius Barth. On June 22, 1961 at Our Lady of the Angels Cleveland, OH , Br. Theo made his solemn profession.

Br. Theo served the Franciscan fraternity and the Church well during his 60 years of active apostolic work. He served the community as a cook, tailor, sacristan, porter, formation director, and in 1984 began his ministry working with those suffering from the disease of Alcoholism. He was on staff at Matt Talbot Inn in Cleveland Oh providing caring support and outreach to those afflicted. He later received recognition for his work and accepted a position on the board at Matt Talbot.

Br. Theo besides serving in Cleveland was stationed at Sacred Heart Fraternity in Indianapolis, IN, St. John the Baptist Friary, Joliet, IL. There he not only provided the friars with nutritious meals he continued his outreach and involvement in AA.

A title that was given to a Pope many centuries ago, "Servant of Servants" could also best describe Br. Theo. Our God not only gifted our brother with hands as instruments of healing to the broken but also a heart that led others to praise and love the Lord as much as he did.

On the night he passed as he was surrounded by his loving fraternity and in the presence of the God he served so well we are sure he heard the words, "Well done good and faithful servant".

Br. Theo was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Hedwig Ballmann of Dutzow, MO and his siblings. He is survived by his Franciscan family and many nieces and nephews.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, December 20, 2012 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 404 North Hickory St. Joliet, IL 60435 (815-727-4788)

The Franciscan Community would like to express their deep appreciation and assurance of prayers to the staff at St. Mary's Home and Assisted Living at Felician Village. We would also like to thank Holy Family Memorial Hospice for overseeing the care of our brother in his final days.

In your kindness please consider making a donation for the continued care of our brothers and priests. Any donation would be much appreciated. Please send your charitable contribution to Blessed Giles Friary 1820 Grand Ave Manitowoc, WI 54220. God Bless You!