The Rev. Rempfer Lees Whitehouse, died in San Diego after a long illness. He was 91. He was preceded in death by his first wife and six siblings and is survived by seven children, 17 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two siblings, as well as his second wife Mary Rose McCormick, a stepson and grandson.

“Fr. Jack” led a storied life. A decorated Army sergeant in the Second World War, wounded in action in the Hurtgen Forest, he was recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross. Following the war he led a movement for world government, and became a lifelong advocate for peace. Ordained to the Episcopal priesthood in 1952, his ministry took place largely on the west side of Chicago, notably during a 25-year term as vicar of Chicago’s Church of the Epiphany. An outspoken prophet and tireless worker for social justice, civil rights and education, he founded St. Gregory Choir School where hundreds of young men from the west side were educated and learned to sing the liturgy. His active ministry continued into his 90s in San Diego, where he also enjoyed golf and cigars.

Solemn Requiem Mass will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral in San Diego on Saturday, May 3 in the early evening. A memorial service is planned for Chicago in the early summer.