The USW Province mourns the loss of one of its cherished members, Fr. Neil David Fuller, SVD, who passed away peacefully at his retirement home in Crestline, CA, on July 26, 2024. Born on November 10, 1939, in Lynn, MA, Fr. Fuller was the beloved son of the late David R. “Ted” and Wanda D. “Nellie” (Placzek) Fuller. He was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Carpinella, in 2011.
Fr. Fuller completed his high school education at the Divine Word Seminary in Miramar in 1958. He entered the novitiate in Conesus, NY, in 1961 and took his first vows in 1962. After completing his philosophical and theological studies in Techny, IL, he was ordained in June 1969 in Milwaukee, WI.
Following his ordination, Fr. Fuller was assigned to the USW Province, where he dedicated his life to various ministries. While residing in the Riverside Community, he was deeply involved in the Japanese Home Study Programs, retreat programs, and parish supply services, and served as the rector of the community from 1987 to 1993. His commitment to immigration and social justice issues, as well as prison ministries, was unwavering.
In his later years, Fr. Fuller served as the priest minister and pastor of St. Matthew in Corona from 2004 to 2015, pastor of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Church in Beaumont and Banning from 2015 to 2018, and Administrator of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in Crestline from 2018 to 2023. He retired after many years of devoted service to the Church and its people.
Fr. Neil David Fuller will be remembered for his profound dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his faith and community. His legacy of service and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.