Posted on: Wednesday, January 30, 2002

The Rev. Gerard J. Leicht dead at 82

By James Gonser
Advertiser Staff Writer

The Rev. Gerard J. Leicht, who worked in Hawai'i for more than 50 years as a Roman Catholic priest, died here Thursday. He was 82.

Leicht was an anti-abortion activist and supporter of many Catholic organizations including the Knights of Columbus, the Holy Name Society and the Legion of Mary. He also supported the Promise Keepers, a fundamentalist Christian men's organization, and spoke at its rally here in 1997.

He moved to Hawai'i in 1946, one year after his ordination.

"I loved him," said the Rev. Clyde Guerreiro, Hawai'i provincial for the Fathers and Brothers of the Sacred Hearts. "Father Gerard will be remembered for his uncompromising love for life and the values that protect and enhance life. His enthusiasm for the people of the church of Hawai'i was marked by high energy and a deep sense of service. I will miss him terribly. His courage and his convictions were legendary."

Leicht was born in Rochester, N.Y. One of his sisters, Domitila, became a nun.

He was the pastor of two parishes: St. Anthony's in Kalihi from 1973 to 1979, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Waikane from 1983 to 1984.

He was retired, but remained active in several groups and advocated improved care for the elderly.

"He was constantly making sure that I was sensitive to some of the needs of our older Catholics," Guerreiro said.

Besides Domitila, Leicht is survived by another sister, Antoinette.

A visitation will be from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at the St. Patrick Church, 1124 Seventh Ave., with a Mass to follow. Burial will be at 9 a.m. Saturday at Hawaiian Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fathers and Brothers of the Sacred Hearts.