Brother Ross Wielatz

In Memory of Brother Ross Wielatz, CFC
“A life of service. A legacy of compassion.”

With great sorrow, we share the news of the passing of Br. Ross Wielatz, CFC. Brother Ross was a cherished educator, counselor, coach, and Christian Brother whose life of service reflected the Gospel values he so deeply lived.

Br. Ross first arrived at Brother Rice in 1964, serving faithfully through 1976 as a teacher and coach. Decades later, he returned to the Brother Rice community from 2011 to 2017, this time as a dedicated school counselor — continuing the same steadfast support and pastoral care that defined his ministry.

A 1957 graduate of Leo Catholic High School, where he was an honor student, class officer, and golf team member, Ross entered the Congregation of Christian Brothers shortly after graduation. He earned his B.S. in Chemistry and Biological Sciences from Iona College and later, a Master’s in Math Education from the University of Detroit. Over the course of 38 years, Br. Ross taught math, science, and religion in Christian Brother schools across the United States, always grounded in the mission to educate the whole person.

Br. Ross also had a lifelong passion for coaching, leading teams in seven different sports. With typical humility, he summed up that era of his life with, “Well, we won some and lost some.” But for his students, the real victories were in the character, discipline, and mentorship he imparted.

In the later chapters of his life, Br. Ross pursued certification in addiction counseling. He served those struggling with substance abuse in high schools, probation offices, and through community outreach programs — including court intervention work with families and long-term recovery support at St. Martin DePorres House of Hope in Chicago. There, he served women and children healing from the trauma of addiction, embodying the compassion and justice at the heart of the Edmund Rice mission.

Br. Ross served in the Christian Brothers congregation for more than 60 years. His legacy is one of unwavering faith, tireless ministry, and gentle strength. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the most challenging corners of society, Br. Ross lived for others — and did so with grace.

We give thanks for the life of Br. Ross Wielatz, whose presence enriched Brother Rice and every community he served.

May he rest in God’s eternal peace.