Fr. Mario Balbi, SDB, found dead near Port Newark (NJ) church

news 12 ^ | 02.24.09

[Coleus]

The body of a Catholic priest was found in a ditch Monday close to the Port Newark church where he preached.

The body of Father Mario Balbi, 88, was discovered at a construction site less than 100 yards from the Stella Maris Chapel. Police say they do not suspect foul play was involved, but a cause of death is yet to be determined.

Authorities are continuing to investigate Balbi's death.

Balbi spent nearly two decades spreading the gospel at the port. Many within the Port Newark community say they'll miss him dearly.

"He was a great man, very holy man and it's just tragic what happened to him," says dock worker Frank Chimento.

[Coleus]

Da Mihi Animus

 

 

Rest in Peace

[AnAmericanMother]

Prayers for the repose of his soul.

I hope that his heart just gave out and God called him home.

[PAR35]

Still preaching at 88? That’s dedication.

I’ll echo AAM’s second comment.

[Clemenza]

VERY close to where many members of my family once lived (they were at St. Casimir’s, although I do know Stella Maris). Sorry to hear about this. I am sure those who he has served through the years are very grateful.

[Tax-chick]

Or a stroke or aneurism, or fell and hit his head. Lots of ways to “just go” at that age.

God bless him and his congregation.

[Coleus]

Revered port priest Mario Balbi , 88, is found dead

 

Authorities are investigating the death of the Rev. Mario Balbi, 88, a dedicated priest whose body was found Monday in Port Newark.  Balbi, who ministered at several local churches, was known by many dockworkers for his annual blessing of the ships. Despite his age, Balbi continued to work full time, a testament to his religious dedication, his colleagues said.

"He was very, very dedicated, and worked constantly, tirelessly," said John Corbett, director of the Stella Maris Chapel in Port Newark. "Port Newark is not the easiest place in the world to have a ministry -- he actually made a little oasis in the desert here."

The Port Authority Police Department said there is an ongoing investigation into the cause of Balbi's death.  mAmong the services held today to celebrate Balbi's life was one held in Port Newark, and it was so well-attended that a tent had to be set up, with speakers broadcasting the service, to accommodate an overflow crowd from the chapel.  Of the hundreds in attendance, several remembered the revered Reverend as a dedicated minister of several religious flocks.