Rev. Fred Zagone, S.J., known as “Father Fred,” passed away this week from cancer, which he fought with “courage and humility,” according to a March 10 university statement.
Chaplain at Marquette University for over 30 years and former interim vice president of Mission and Ministry, Zagone attended university events and supported Marquette’s students, staff and alumni throughout his Jesuit vocation and career.
“Father Fred lived the mission of Marquette in his every interaction, both on campus with students and in the deep relationships he cultivated with alumni,” President Kimo Ah Yun said in the university announcement. “We will miss him dearly, and we are so grateful to him for modeling what it means to be a man for and with others.”
Zagone led religious services, celebrated Marquette weddings, baptisms and comforted grieving community members, among other duties within his three decades at the university.
He remained active in the Marquette community until the very end of his life, always showing up to “life’s most important moments.”
Zagone was known and adored by many, as he served in University Advancement, the National Alumni Association, the Association of Marquette University Women, the Marquette Parents and Family Leadership Council, the Friends of the Haggerty Museum of Art and the Marquette Women’s Council.
“We have often said that Father Fred was always where you needed him most,” Vice President for University Advancement Tim McMahon said in the announcement. “I will miss his honesty, his wisdom and will never forget his faith in Marquette and what makes our community unlike any other. Our hearts are with his family and the Jesuit community during this difficult time.”
This story was written by Elena Metinidis. She can be reached at [email protected].
