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Resurrectionist Father Stephen Gira, 59, dies Dec. 6

Resurrectionist Father Stephen Gira, 59, died Dec. 6, 2010.

Father Gira had been the Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish in Columbia since July of 2003.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 10 at Immaculate Conception in Columbia.

“Father Steve was beloved by all the parish for his kindness, gentleness and generosity,” Msgr. Carl Scherrer, pastor at Immaculate Conception, said. “But he was best known for his love of the sacred Scriptures and his magnificent preaching. His homilies were insightful, engaging and filled with creative imagery, and always Scripture centered. All our visitors, including my sisters, always commented to me about how terrific his homilies were. From a personal perspective, I believe I’m a better person, priest, pastor and preacher because of my seven and a half years of ministry with Father Steve. Both in living and in dying he truly taught us all what it means to be a Resurrectionist!”

Father Gira was born in Chicago July 19, 1951 to Erwin and the late Theresa Grzechowiak Gira.

Besides his mother, Father Gira was preceded in death by his uncles, Frank, Father Edward Gira, CR, and Father Francis Grzechowiak, CR.

He is survived by his father, Erwin, aunts, Sister Mary Edward, CR, and Sister Rosemary, CR. A cousin, Bishop Robert J. Kurtz, CR is the bishop of Hamilton in Bermuda.

Interment was in St. Adalbert Cemetery in Niles, Ill.