“It was Saint Viator High School at its best,” Br. Rob Robertson, CSV said.
On Sunday, the Saint Viator community came together at the high school in support of Chris Kirkpatrick, a former dean and varsity head football coach, who was recently diagnosed with ALS. Sometimes known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS is a degenerative illness, and living with it involves significant medical expenses, a need for accessibility and home modifications, and a great deal of care and therapy for comfort and quality of life.
The gathering for Coach K included Mass in the Saint Viator High School Alumni Memorial Chapel, with Fr. John Eustice, CSV, SVHS Chaplain, celebrating.
So, Br. Rob teamed with former Saint Viator coach Mike Manno and longtime Saint Viator family JoAnn and Dan Murphy. They held a day of prayer and fellowship at Saint Viator for Chris, his wife Julie, and their three children, and organized a fundraiser for the expenses facing the family.
“Over 50 former players and coaches came as well as former teachers, other alumni, parents, and more supporters. Several alums even came from out of state – Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and more,” Br. Rob said. “Well over 200 people filled the Alumni Memorial Chapel, and Fr. John Eustice celebrated Mass with us. Chris really had an impact on so many guys.”
Since Chris’ ability to speak is deteriorating, he prepared a speech that was read on his behalf. He described learning on the job after Fr. Tom von Behren, CSV – then president of Saint Viator – hired Chris while he was still in his mid-20s. Chris cited the deep, wide support of the school community and the Viatorians in helping him grow and learn to serve the students well over his many years at Saint Viator. “Br. Rob and the rest of the Viatorians treated me like family. They were kind, fun, and made me feel like I belonged. To Br. Rob, Fr. Tom, and Fr. Mick — I will forever be grateful for the way you welcomed me and supported me. If I had the time, I could tell you stories of what they did for me and my family that would truly blow your mind,” Chris’ speech said.
Br. Rob (right) puts an arm around Chris (second from right). Br. Rob is godfather to Coach K’s daughter and known to the Kirkpatrick kids as “Uncle Rob.”
“Brother Rob isn’t just a friend anymore — he’s Uncle Rob to my kids and the godfather to my daughter. That says everything. The Viatorians are good people who treat others the way they should be treated. It wasn’t always easy or perfect, but I always knew they were coming from a place of care and love.”
In addition to his affection for the Viatorian Community, Coach K shared his faith, even amid this tragic hardship for himself and his family. “God is good. That might sound strange to some, considering my situation, but it’s the truest thing I can say,” Chris said. “My family and I are not victims. We believe we’re part of God’s plan. That doesn’t mean we don’t cry. And, yes, I grieve the things I may not get to see or experience. But in the middle of that sadness, I have peace – a peace that truly surpasses understanding and a peace that only God can give. He has shown up in incredible ways, again and again.”
After Mass, folks shared memories, laughter, and additional support in Querbes Hall. The Viatorian Community joins in offering its prayers for Chris and the Kirkpatrick family. If you would like to support the GoFundMe campaign, donate here – an anonymous donor will match the first $50,000 fundraised.
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This special gathering brought together a huge group of alumni, parents, and faculty/staff who joined together in prayer and support for the Kirkpatrick family – this photo gathered all the former players and coaches from Saint Viator football.