Fr. Patrick Walsh Celebrate 50 years of Priesthood
A reception honoring the 50th anniversary of the ordination of Fr. Patrick Walsh, retired president of Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools, will be held Saturday, June 8 at 2 to 4 p.m. at Heelan High School. Refreshments will be served in Duffy Hall Commons and the public is invited.
Fr. Walsh retired in June 2012 after nine years as president of Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools and 43 years in education. Since then he has continued to attend Heelan events and cheers on student athletes at games He plays in an Irish band and is a member of Rotary Club of Sioux City.
As president Fr. Walsh launched the Pride Campaign to build a new Bishop Heelan High School, opened Kiddie Crusader preschools and renamed the Catholic school system to Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools. He spearheaded a long range planning process, and helped turn around declining enrollment.
High school students began mission trips to Honduras and worked with elementary students for Feed Just One program and Heelan won state championship titles in football, basketball, girls’ basketball, baseball, boys track and volleyball.
For those unable to attend, cards are welcome. Mail to Father Patrick Walsh, 4230 Hickory Lane, Apt 732 Sioux City, Iowa 51106.