Thomas Arthur Dorenbusch

DORENBUSCH, Thomas Arthur, 88, of Franklin, passed away Tuesday December 22nd at home in the arms of his loving wife. Tom was born July 6th, 1932 in Hamilton, Ohio to Arthur F. Dorenbusch and Cecilia (Bentz) Dorenbusch. Tom is survived by his wife, Bonnie Dorenbusch; and his four stepdaughters, Amita and Andrew Frawley (Henry, Elizabeth, and Katherine), Joya and Aaron Logue (Raj, Rohan, and Ravi), Asha and Kevin Ruiz (Anabelle and Lola) and Marisha Mukerjee; his brother John Dorenbusch (Louise), his brother Bill Dorenbusch (Sally), his sister Jane Cassidy, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Sister Ann Dorenbusch S.C.; and his brother-in-law Tommy Cassidy. As a child, Tom lived in Middletown, Ohio and often looked forward to visiting his grandparents in Springfield, his mother's hometown, a place he would later call his second home. Tom was an active Catholic priest for forty-nine years serving as pastor at St. Agnes Church (Dayton), St. Joseph Church (Springfield), St. John the Baptist Church (Tipp City), and post retirement, St. Francis of Assisi Church (Centerville). As pastor, Tom was often the common thread that united people, whether it was ushering in the changes of Vatican Two, fighting for social justice, or tending to the needs of a growing parish. He gave people the courage to be more active in their faith, parish, and community. Parishioners often said that Tom met them where they were in life and that he didn't pass judgment. He was a listener. Tom was a champion for ecumenical dialogue within the community at large, bringing together local leadership from various faiths. He was always able to create a bridge where it was needed. Tom was a loving husband, stepfather and grandfather. Tom and Bonnie enjoyed holidays with family, traveling to their beloved Scotland and Holmes County and sitting side-by-side reading often with their cat, Solomon; they cherished every moment together. He was always one for an intellectual conversation with family and friends, discussing history or his latest book. Tom was a die-hard Notre Dame fan and never liked to miss a game. Tom took an active role in his grandchildren's lives, whether it was attending a dance recital, going on a picnic, a sports match, and the many First Communions and Confirmations. He especially cherished Grandparent's Day at their schools. Passing on the faith and praying with his grandchildren was privilege for him. Tom loved nothing more than being surrounded by his family at the dinner table enjoying a good meal. Tom, along with his wife Bonnie, was an active member of Church of the Incarnation in Centerville, Ohio. The family would like to personally thank the Freeman family of Springfield, Ohio, especially Eldon, his maternal cousin, and his wife Joan (both deceased) and their extended family, who were instrumental in Tom's well-being and happiness; Rev. Gene Vonderhaar for his continual support and friendship over the many years; and Rev. Patrick Sloneker, pastor of the Church of the Incarnation. On January 4th, a private burial was held at St. Stephen's Cemetery in Hamilton, Ohio with immediate family in attendance. Father Ryan Ruiz officiated. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Joseph Church (Springfield) after Easter. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sisters of Charity, Cincinnati, Mount Saint Joseph or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements by CONROY FUNERAL HOME.