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Russell Gavin Obituary
Gavin, Rev. Russell James O.Carm., Roman Catholic Priest, age 85, died July 5, 2007, born April 26, 1922, in Chicago, IL. Beloved son of the late Joseph and Susan (nee Costello), loving brother of Sr. Mary Irene Gavin, IBVM and the late Joseph (the late Betty), Margaret, Richard and Patrick Gavin, also nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Professed his vows with the Carmelites October 8, 1944, in Washington, DC. Ordained a priest June 7, 1947, in Chicago, IL, Rev. Gavin was an educator, parish priest and pastor and counselor. He taught many years at Mt. Carmel High School in Chicago, IL and was pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Darien, IL, for 9 years. He worked tirelessly to help those suffering from the effects of alcohol abuse. Visitation Monday, July 9, 2007, from 2 to 8 p.m., at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 8404 Cass Ave., Darien, IL. Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, July 10, 2007, at 10 a.m., also at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chicago, IL. Arrangements by: Modell Funeral Home, 630-852-3595. 
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Memories and Condolences
for Russell Gavin
Keith Survillas
July 10, 2007
Fr Russ:
A most happy memory of my childhood and for your church. Thank you; may you rest in peace.
Donna Auten (Survillas)
July 10, 2007
Father Russ was the pastor at Our Lady of Mount Carmel when I attended it as a youth and he married me and my husband. He will be missed.
Patti Bauler
July 10, 2007
Fr. Russ was so much a part of our lives. He married my husband and I. He gave our son and oldest daughter their First Communion and baptised our 3rd child. He said a Mass at our home for my father's 75th birthday and said the buriel Mass for both my mother and father. He was a beautiful priest! I will miss him, but I look forward to seeing him in heaven. We are on vacation in Maine at the present and I received the news via a phone message from a good friend. I am so sorry that we are unable to be there for the funeral Mass, but I did offer my Mass up this morning for Fr. Russ. Our condolences to his family. May Christ be your strength and peace at this time
God Bless,
The Bauler Family
Thomas Eisha
July 10, 2007
At Mount Carmel we came as boys and we left as men.Thanks Rev Gavin.My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Rev Gavin my he rest in peace.
John Doe
July 9, 2007
Thank you, Father Russ, for being a holy priest.
R. Lindsey
July 9, 2007
Let us celebrate the tremendous legacy Fr. Gavin leaves behind as he joins the ranks of other great "Men of Carmel" who have preceded him on his transition to God's presence. His larger-than-life presence around Mt. Carmel, although sometimes stern, but always supportive, was a source of inspiration for students and faculty alike. May his soul now rest in peace.
Diane Stefanowicz(nee Costello)
July 8, 2007
The family of the late Charles Costello extends their deepest sympathy to the family of Father Russell Gavin
Ron Survillas
July 8, 2007
Barb & I wish to offer our condolences on Fr. Russ's passing.He was an insperation in our lives as well as many others. There is a very special place at the right hand of our Lord for him.May the perpetual light shine apon him forever. Ron % Barb Survillas ( Bullhead City AZ.)
Nedra A Campbell
July 8, 2007
I shall miss Father Russ greatly. I knew him for many years and he was a great influence on my life. I shall never cease to be grateful for having known him.
Sharon Schweitzer
July 8, 2007
You were in our lives for 22 years and now you will continue to be in our hearts forever. We will miss your stories and laughter.
Our deepest condolences.
Bob, Sharon, Matthew, Katie, Nick, and Ryan Schweitzer
Dennis Duffner
July 8, 2007
Rest in peace, Fr. Russell. I remember your presence at Carmel when I was there '66-'70, and how you'd stop to answer a question, explain something from class that a student didn't quite understand or congratulate someone on a good job.
Our family will be poorer for your loss but infinitely richer for having you as a part of it. You cared for everyone.
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Modell Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Darien7710 South Cass Avenue, Darien, IL 60561
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