Father Curtis Delarm
1963-2005

Scholarships are awarded yearly to provide financial aid based on families of greatest need who apply at SCLS.

Father Delarm grew up in Middletown, PA where he attended Seven Sorrows BVM and Londerry Elementary School.  He was a graduate of Lower Dauphin High School.

As a diocesan seminarian, he received a bachelor's degree in philosophy from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia, and a Master of Divinity Degree from Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Maryland.

Father Delarm was ordained a priest on May 27, 1989 by Archbishop William Keeler and served as a parochial vicar as Assumption BVM Parish in Lebanon, St. Joseph Parish, Hanover, St. Rose of Lima Parish in York and St. Patrick Parish in Carlisle.

In 1997 he was diagnosed with "Lou Gehrig's Disease," or ALS.  ALS is a progressive and ultimately fatal neuromuscular disease.

Father Delarm wanted to remain in a parish and inquired about living at Saint Catherine's because of his love of Saint Catherine herself.  He was welcomed and a residence was set up for him at the Parish Rectory.

Although his body was deteriorating physically, his love and spirituality grew stronger and deeper. The parishoners of Saint Catherine's loved and supported him throughout the progression of the disease and he continued to celebrate Mass and preach until he could  no longer move or speak.  Even then, with the assistance of a computer, he was able to communicate with those around him, teaching through his example and patience.  His courage was an inspiration to all who knew him and his deep love of the Eucharist brought many people closer to Christ.

Father Delarm passed away on April 9, 2005 in his residence at Saint Catherine Laboure Parish at the age of 41.  He will always be remembered as a faithful servant of God and a priest who, even throughout his 8 year struggle with ALS, was still able to enjoy life and live it to the fullest. 

Father Delarm established the Scholarship Fund prior to his death in 2005 for students in need at Saint Catherine Laboure School.  To dontinue Father Delarm's legacy and love, please support his scholarship fund.

The Father Delarm Scholarship Fund