Aurora Mourns Loss of Iconic Catholic Priest

Aurora Mourns Loss of Father David Engbarth
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Father David Engbarth left an indelible mark on Aurora during his 45 years serving the community.

His recent passing during the Thanksgiving holiday has left a void in the City’s faith community and in the lives of generations of Aurorans who considered him a family member.

Father David, as he was most commonly known, was feted this week by City leaders and Catholic priests.

Mayor Richard Irvin issued a proclamation naming Father David’s birthday – August 24- in his honor.

“Father David was an Aurora icon who helped to shape our community,” said mayor Irvin.

Aurora Ward 1 alderman Emmanuel Llamas was moved to tears as he reflected on his childhood under the leadership of Father David at Archbishop Romero Catholic School.

Two fellow members of the Catholic clergy joined Irvin and Llamas in remembrance of their brother and fellow priest.

Mayor Richard Irvin (right) is joined by Father Jerome Leake, center, and Father Godwin Asuquo, left, to honor the life of the late Father David Engbarth, collage far left. They listen to Aurora Ward 1 alderman Emmanuel Llamas, on screen top right, reflect on his childhood under the leadership of Father David Engbarth at Archbishop Romero Catholic School in Aurora. City of Aurora government

Father Godwin Asuquo of St. Joseph Catholic Church reflected on his time with Father David.  Father Jerome Leake of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church offered a prayer for Father David and the community.

Father David Engbarth, 75, worked at several parishes during his tenure in Aurora, which began in 1979. Father David was instrumental in confronting gangs and cleaning up neighborhoods of crime during the mid- 1990’s.  He officially retired in 2014, and returned to Aurora often to serve and visit.

— City of Aurora government

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