Monsignor John Westhues

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Monsignor John Henry Westhues, 85, passed away on Jan. 18, 2008, in St. John's Hospital.

Monsignor was born June 19, 1922, in Jefferson City, Mo., to Henry and Helen Roer Westhues. He was a graduate of St. Peter's High School in Jefferson City. He attended St. Benedict's College, Cardinal Glennon College and Kenrick Seminary. Monsignor was ordained a priest April 4, 1948, by Archbishop Joseph E. Ritter for the Archdiocese of St. Louis. The Archdiocese of St. Louis sent Monsignor Westhues to study in Rome, where he received his degree in canon law. Monsignor Westhues was invited by Bishop Helmsing, the first bishop of the new diocese, to move to Springfield when the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau was created in 1956.

He is survived by his sisters, Marie Staub and her husband, Dr. Henry Staub Sr.; Joan Cordis (Marjorie) Westhues; Jane Schmidt and her husband, Paul; Elaine Roer Westhues; and Marilyn Evans and her husband, Robert.

Monsignor was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Helen Westhues, and his sister, Rosemary Rieke. He is also survived by 27 nieces and nephews, 97 great-nieces and nephews, many cousins and extended family.

Visitation will be 6:30 to 9 p.m. today, Jan. 20, 2008, at his beloved St. Agnes Cathedral with a prayer service at 7 p.m., Monsignor Thomas E. Reidy, celebrant. Visitation will also take place from 10 to 11:45 a.m. on the day of the funeral.

Funeral Mass will be at noon Monday, Jan. 21, 2008 (the Feast of St. Agnes), in St. Agnes Cathedral with Bishop John J. Leibrecht, principal celebrant, and the priests of the diocese concelebrating.

Burial will be at noon Tuesday in Resurrection Cemetery in Jefferson City, with the Rev. Michael V. McDevitt and Monsignor Thomas E. Reidy, celebrants. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E. Walnut St., Springfield.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Maryknoll Sisters, the tuition assistance fund of St. Agnes School, St. Benedict's College or Conception Seminary.

Online condolences may be made at www.hhlohmeyer.com.