Rev. Charles J. Saint-Amant, CSV, died suddenly on Feb. 24, 1922 in Bourbonnais. After a day of teaching, he was stricken and never regained consciousness. His sudden passing was a further reminder of life’s uncertainty. He was 45.
Fr. Saint-Amant was born Dec. 6, 1876 in River Rouge, MI, where he obtained his primary education in the local public schools. Upon completion of his early studies, he entered Detroit College, run by the Jesuits, where he graduated with high honors.
He entered the Viatorian novitiate in 1899 and professed his first vows on Jul. 4, 1903. After completing his novitiate, he was assigned to teach at Holy Name School in Chicago.
When Holy Name School closed in 1904, Saint-Amant was sent to St. Viator College in Bourbonnais, where he completed his philosophical and theological studies.
Fr. Saint-Amant was ordained to the priesthood on May 21, 1910. During his priestly life, he served as teacher, both at St. Viator College and Columbus College in Chamberlain, SD, but later proved to be just as effective in missionary work, as an eloquent and instructive preacher.
His funeral was held in his native River Rouge, where he was also buried, as a favor granted to his bereaved parents, by the Viatorian provincial, the Rev. Eugene L. Rivard, CSV.
Those who knew Fr. Saint-Amant felt sure, that as a good and faithful servant, he received his heavenly reward.
Taken from the 1922 Annuaire, a publication of the Viatorian General Direction, pp.119-124