Sister Marie Therese lived to be 100 years and 7 months. She spent 50 yrs in Denver and was a gentle, gracious lady in all situations. There is a difference between listening and hearing. Sister Marie Therese had the great ability to truly listen and without being judgmental. She always spoke in a whisper, with a sense of humor, a twinkle in her eyes, and a smile. Many people contacted Sister and she responded by letter or phone.

Springtime was her favorite time to plant flowers, watch them grow, and know that others enjoyed them. Squirrels were her least liked little creature for they, too, enjoyed her flowers. She loved to play the organ, prayed in many ways, and lived in the presence of God. She strolled in the yard saying the Rosary. Her beloved patron was St. Therese of the Child Jesus.

She drove a Volks Wagon Bug to visit patients, to administer injections and check blood pressures until she was 85. One day she returned home and gave up the car keys and said, “I do not think I should drive any longer.”

At age 83 she made her last visit to her beloved home in Ireland. A tote bag contained her clothing. Her closet held only the barest necessities. She lived a life of simplicity.

She was moderator of “The Ladies Aid Society,” sponsored an Annual Christmas Tea, did fund raising, and attended monthly meetings. She established a group of Volunteer Lay Nurses who gave many hours.

In 1949 the Dominicanettes were established. The title means “Little Dominican.” Girls of high school and college age joined. They accompanied Sisters into homes. Dominicanettes were trained to give baths, cared for children and did housecleaning. They were a source of vocations because we were not teaching in schools.

May the mission/ministry of the Dominican Sisters continue with the same dedication and love that Sister Marie Therese showed to all people she came in contact with.

Special thanks to everyone who helped to care for Sister and especially to Sister Regis for her constant devotion, attention and love. God bless you, Sister Regis.

I have saved until last the beautiful event that occurred a day before Sister Marie Therese died. She asked Sister Regis to come to her bedside and see the light and Sister Regis responded, “The sun shining through the window is beautiful, Sister.” Sister Marie Therese said, “Oh see the bright light shining here, it is not the sun and St. Therese was at the foot of my bed.” Sister Regis said, “You might have been dreaming.” Sister Marie Therese insisted again, “No, it is a bright light and Sister Marie Therese asked, “Can I leave now and go to God?”

Sister Marie Therese, we love you. We will miss you, and we ask you to always give us a helping hand. God loved and blessed Sister.

Ann William Berberich, OP

BACK