Monsignor Robert Füglister, longtime friend, benefactor and promoter of Bethlehem University passed away on Friday, 28 January, in Basel, Switzerland, after suffering heart-related attacks in recent weeks.

On behalf of our entire university community we express our heartfelt condolences to Monsignor’s family, brother priests and friends in Switzerland, to ABU (Association en faveur de Bethlehem University), organization for which he served as president for many years, and to Kilderhilfe Bethlehem, which supports Caritas Baby Hospital here in Bethlehem, a hospital dear to the heart of Monsignor.

In 1998 on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of Bethlehem University Monsignor Füglister was given a Special Service Award at the University for his extraordinary dedication to and support of the University. (Click here for a copy of the Citation presented to him during the ceremony)

The Füglister Computer Laboratory in Millennium Hall was established in his name through the generous financial support of ABU in recognition of his many years of leadership and service to the organization in promotion of the University.

Masses will be celebrated in the Brothers community on Wednesday, 2 February, and for the university community on Friday, 4 February, the day of Monsignor’s Mass of Resurrection and interment in Basel, Switzerland. Bethlehem University has lost a wonderful friend but has gained a powerful intercessor in heaven. Though we at Bethlehem University grieve the loss of this wonderful friend and brother, we rejoice in his entrance into eternal glory.

Brother Vincent Malham, FSC
President-Vice Chancellor