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In Memory of Deacon Jim Dieterle
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In his own words
Deacon Jim Dieterle
I was born in Santa Monica, CA in 1935. I was baptized in St. Paul the Apostle Church in West Los Angeles eight days later. A twin brother was born with me. Two older brothers welcomed us. In 1941, our family moved from Santa Monica to a farm in central Illinois. At St. Mary’s Parish, I finished elementary school, high school, made my First Communion, and was Confirmed. I finished my college studies at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1957.
Not only did I get my Bachelor of Business Administration in San Antonio, but I met the love of my life, the delight of my eyes, Beryl Hale. We were married on May 30, 1959. We started our married life in Ventura, CA, but quickly moved to San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles. Our life was full; but delightful. We had six children in quick order. I managed stores for Safeway. My wife and I were involved in our parish, primarily in Religious Education and Marriage Encounter. Beryl was involved in the Charismatic Renewal. I was one of the first Extraordinary Ministers of Communion and lector when they were approved by the Second Vatican Council. Each Sunday morning Beryl and I and our family would be in the front pew at mass. We wanted our children to see what was going on.
In 1977 Beryl and I decided to move out of Los Angeles. We bought a store in Strathmore with a big house attached. This began a whole new life for us. Our children were getting married, moving out of the house, and giving us grandchildren (15). Beryl went back to school to get her Licensed Clinical Social Worker Degree. We became involved in St. Anne’s Parish. Among other ministries, I became facilitator of the R.C.I.A. program.
While in Los Angeles, I had followed the development of the Diaconate approved by the Second Vatican Council. I thought to myself and expressed to Beryl that I could do that. But nothing happened. In the early 1990’s, I asked Msgr. Scott about the possibility of my becoming a Deacon. He approved and added “I will take you to see the Bishop in the morning”. I was on my way.
Formation was in the Diocese of Oakland because the Diocese of Fresno did not have a formation program at the time. Beryl had to give her consent for me to be Deacon. Not only did she give her consent, she traveled to Oakland for most classes.
I was ordained a Deacon on November 4, 2000, at St. Anne’s Church. My primary ministry has been R.C.I.A., I have enjoyed my 20 years as a Deacon. Msgr. Scott and the other priests of the parish have been great to work with. There are no better parishioners than those of St. Anne’s. My biggest supporter has been my family, especially Beryl. None of this would have been possible without her.
I retired on July 31st, 2020. I enjoy my free time. I especially enjoy our children, our grandchildren, and our great grandchildren (11).
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