Rupert Dorn, OFM Cap, 90, a native of Waunakee, WI returned to his Heavenly Father September 25, 2014. He was invested as a Capuchin Franciscan in 1943, perpetually professed in 1947, and ordained in 1951. Brother Rupert was a harbinger for the province for what Pope Francis has become for the church. He was a brother to all. He brought a fraternal bond to every assignment he had as a Capuchin friar. Whether it was provincial minister of the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph, a pastor, province secretary, prefect at St. Lawrence Seminary, local minister, or provincial councilor, he brought a leadership style that empowered others to think of and create new approaches to Religious life. He was a beloved friar. His tenure as provincial minister immediately followed Vatican II. The church was tasked with returning to the spirit of its founding. Through Rupert's leadership, new models were created and new philosophies were adopted. He trusted in the ability of others. He was non-intrusive and an ever present brother to all the friars. Rupert would often lead the friars in song, Er Lebe Hoch (translated May he live well or He cheers). It was once written, "When Fr. Rupert walked in, the songs began; the laughter filled the room. He loved to sing and everyone had to sing with him. His voice was terrible, but he could care less. He knew the value of singing to buoy up people's spirits." Rupert once reflected, "We are guests in God's beautiful world. He is lavish with his hospitality. We can do no less than be hospitable to others, especially to our own Capuchin brothers." His gentle spirit and humor will be long remembered and sorely missed.

In the course of his long life, Fr. Rupert spent twenty-seven years in Detroit. Holding various provincial offices, assistant to the Secular Franciscans and local minsiter of St. Bonvanture Monastery, Fr. Rupert would frequently assist at various parishes at weekend masses, most notably at St. Germain in St. Clair Shores. He was always proud of his association with the Ancient Order of Hibernians and The Kolping Society where he met many people who became good friends until the end.

Rupert is survived by his siblings: Betty Ripp, Waunakee; Raymond Dorn, Portage; and Henry Dorn, Waunakee; many nieces and nephews; and the friars of the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph, with whom he lived, prayed and ministered.

Rupert was preceded in death by his parents, John and Agnes.

Visitation will be held at ST. ISIDORE THE FARMER PARISH – HOLY CROSS CHURCH (308 S. County Road W, Mt. Calvary) Wednesday, October 1, from 3:00 p.m. until time of vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at ST. LAWRENCE SEMINARY CHAPEL (301 Church St., Mt. Calvary) Thursday, October 2, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at the Capuchin Friar Cemetery, Mt. Calvary. A luncheon will follow the burial.

A public Memorial Mass will be offered on Thursday, October 16th at 5:00 p.m. at ST. BONAVENTURE MONASTERY CHAPEL (1740 Mt. Elliott, Detroit) with a reception to follow in the Solanus Casey Center. Memorials to the Capuchin Friars.