Fr. Merlin Kieffer dedicated his life to the service of God and the people of the Diocese of Salina. His commitment to his faith and community extended beyond the parishes he served during his years of active ministry. When he passed away in 2021, he not only left behind countless memories from the sacraments given to many but also a lasting legacy through the gifts he bequeathed in his will.
Gifts to Catholic Schools and Clergy Retirement funds at the Diocese of Salina reflect his deep commitment to Catholic education and genuine concern for the well-being of his fellow clergy. Fr. Kieffer experienced the importance of a Catholic education firsthand. He did graduate work in counseling psychology for four summers at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. and was a guidance counselor and instructor in Latin and Church History at the Catholic high school in Concordia (1960-1963) and Manhattan (1963-1971).
Later he would find himself back to the heart of the diocese and the role of Director of Education and Superintendent of Catholic Schools. At one of his final parishes served, St. John the Baptist Parish in Beloit, he provided pastoral supervision to the K-12 Catholic Schools. Having dedicated such a large portion of his life to Catholic schools, Fr. Kieffer’s legacy gift underscores how much his time spent in education meant to him.
The Clergy Retirement fund at the Diocese of Salina ensures that all priests receive the accommodation, health care and support they need in retirement. The Diocese of Salina has 19 retired priests, many of whom have worked long into their 70s and still work today, covering masses when needed. His gift to support clergy retirement is a testament to Fr. Kieffer’s appreciation for his fellow clergy, symbolizing his thoughtfulness and respect for them.
“The diocese was incredibly blessed by Father Kieffer, his generosity, and for all the works that he did for the people during his priesthood. The diocese and the people he shepherded were always his top priority and he is greatly missed,” stated Bishop Vincke.
Fr. Kieffer is one of many pastors and lay people who created opportunities for the future Church by making a gift in his will. Making a gift such as Fr. Kieffer’s to support your parish, Catholic school, or diocesan ministry is easy and can truly have a transformative impact. For more information about creating a legacy gift, contact the Catholic Foundation for Diocese of Salina at development@salinadiocese.org or 785-827-8746