August 15, 2020
REST IN PEACE
Christopher R. Predeek was born on August 11, 1933, the ninth of ten children born to William and Elizabeth Predeek of Mount Angel, Oregon. He attended Catholic schools in Mount Angel and subsequently entered the seminary there, earning a BA and an MDiv. Baptized as Raymond Francis, he took the name Christopher upon becoming a member of the Benedictine Abbey. He was ordained a priest on May 26, 1960 by Archbishop Howard and in 1964 he moved from the Abbey in Mount Angel to begin parish ministry in Portland. He served as assistant pastor at St. Agatha parish from 1964 to 1975, and then as assistant pastor and pastor at Sacred Heart parish from 1975 to 1990. Chris was a beloved pastor and friend to many during his years in public ministry and he often credited his parishioners as instrumental in his spiritual and personal growth. That journey of growth eventually led Chris to discern that he was called to leave active ministry as a Catholic priest. For the remainder of his years he continued to love and serve God as a layman, working in various positions but always continuing to read and study theology and spiritualityjsharing his knowledge, insights and wisdom with many. Chris' home library reflected his many passions, including world religions, interfaith dialogue, mysticism and astronomy. He was also an avid tomato gardener, a skillful carpenter, a prolific writer and an invaluable handyman for his friends in need.
Chris is survived by his sisters Verna Scharbach, Dorothy Holmes and Donna Annen as well as many nieces, nephews and other extended family. He was blessed in life with many lasting friendships that spanned generations. Chris was especially grateful to the Marlias, the Stephensons, the Millers and others who quietly supported him in so many ways over the years. His life is also remembered and celebrated by his faith community at Spirit of Grace church in Beaverton, Oregon where he was a treasured member for many years. In this community of Lutherans and Catholics Chris found a spiritual home that honored both traditions that were part of the faith history in his family. At Spirit of Grace he was appreciated for his gentle nature, his wise insights, and his steadfast proclaiming a God of love. Chris passed away peacefully under Hospice care early on the morning of July 5, 2020, joining the communion of saints and angels waiting to welcome him home.
Chris requested that any remembrance gifts be directed to: Spirit of Grace Church,
7400 SW Scholls Ferry Road, Beaverton, OR 97008