Father Redemptus of the Cross, OCD, was born to Eternal Life on Nov. 13, 2010, at Alexian Village at the age of 92.

He was born John Short in the West End of Boston, Mass., on Nov. 26, 1917, to Patrick and Mary (nee Burns) Short. After a brief stint with the Congregation of the Holy Cross, he entered the Discalced Carmelite Order at Holy Hill on Oct. 14, 1940, taking the name Redemptus of the Cross. He made profession as a Discalced Carmelite Friar on Oct. 15, 1941, and was ordained to the priesthood in Washington, D.C., on June 10, 1947. He served as student master, rector, sub-prior and parish priest. He served the Order in Brookline, Mass., and Waverly, N.Y. In addition, he was stationed at St. Florian Parish in West Milwaukee for 27 years and the National Shrine (now Basilica) of Mary, Help of Christians at Holy Hill for 26 years. Out of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he helped found the All-Night Vigil in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and served as its Clerical Moderator for over 45 years.

His gentle warmth and kindness touched everyone who ever met him. Even his childhood friends thought he was outstanding in virtue, especially kind and generous.

Fr. Redemptus is survived by his sister and brother-inlaw, Alice and Fred Press; nephews, David (Rosanne) and Peter (Diane) Press; and nieces, Kathleen DiMasi and Pauline Marra; other relatives, many friends and the Discalced Carmelite Friars, with whom he lived for 70 years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Mary and David Marra, and nephew Christopher Press.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 27, at St. Florian Church, 1233 S. 45 St., West Milwaukee, and 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, at Holy Hill Basilica, with Evening Prayer at 5 p.m. Visitation also from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Mondau, Nov. 29, at Holy Hill. Mass of Resurrection to follow at 11 a.m. Burial to follow at the Carmelite Cemetery Holy Hill. Memorials to the Basilica of Holy Hill appreciated.

The Berndt-Ledesma Funeral Home is serving the Order of Discalced Carmelites at Holy Hill. www.berndt-ledesma.com.