Vale Fr. Tony Guelen

Father Anthony Peter "Dutchy" Guelen died on 25 October 2017, at St Vincent's Public Hospital. He was aged 89 years and was in the 59th year of his priesthood.

Father Guelen arrived from Holland in 1955. He was ordained on 22 July 1958 by Archbishop Simonds at St Patrick's Cathedral, East Melbourne. He was appointed as Assistant Priest at Dandenong, Carlton and St Albans and was then appointed as Parish Priest of Holy Eucharist, St Albans South (1972) and St Mary's, Dandenong (1986) where he remained until his retirement as Pastor Emeritus in January 2010.

Father Guelen was a gifted pastor and administrator. His extraordinary efforts in many parishes where he served created strong communities of faith and ensured a solid foundation of financial management.

Father Guelen was practical in his approach to ministry. He was respectful of the story of migrants and their place in the Catholic Church in Australia. He was a mentor to many young priests and seminarians whose formation was shaped by his humour, hospitality, generosity, faithfulness and above all his daily witness to the priesthood.

His loss will be felt by many. Fr Tony reflected the fine qualities of diocesan priests in Melbourne and his loyalty to his ordination group of 1958 never wavered. We pray that he will enjoy the eternal reward of a life well lived, loved and given in service of the Lord.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

John Rhynehart, Director of Faith and RE