Mary Kuiken, CSJP (1932-2024)
Mary Frances Kuiken was born on May 22, 1932, in Midland Park, New Jersey, the middle child of five, four girls and one boy, born to John Kuiken and Mary (Soares) Kuiken.
Sister Mary met the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace as a student at St. Luke’s High School in Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey, where many of our sisters taught. On the occasion of her seventieth jubilee, she credited these sisters with instilling lessons and values that remained with her throughout her life. After graduating high school in 1950, Sister Mary worked for a year as a secretary and bookkeeper, then entered the community. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education in 1962 from Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, and a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies and Theology in 1968 from Manhattanville College in Purchase, New York.
Sister Mary’s ministerial work began in education in 1954. She taught fourth grade at St. James School and business classes at St. James High School in Penns Grove, New Jersey. She was soon called to share her gifts with the Congregation by serving in a succession of regional roles. Starting in 1958, Sister Mary became the secretary to Mother Patricia Moran, CSJP. This position, which lasted for seven years, allowed Sister Mary to travel throughout the Congregation, meeting many of the Congregation’s sisters and acquiring the knowledge and experience that she would bring to future endeavors. She later served as Vocation Director, Novice Director, and Director of Ministry and Formation for the St. Joseph Province.
Sister Mary’s next phase of ministry invited her to share her talents with the Congregation’s sponsored ministries. She acted as Assistant Administrator of St. Joseph’s Village, Coordinator of Child Care Services and Administrator at St. Joseph’s School for the Blind, and business skills teacher at Kenmare Alternative High School. She was even the editor of the St. Joseph Messenger for 11 years.
Sister Mary was elected to serve on the final St. Joseph’s Province Council with Province Leader Sister Maureen Collins, CSJP. In retirement, she undertook the ministry of prayer as part of the community of sisters living at St. Michael Villa in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. She truly cherished every opportunity for ministry that she had in her life.
Sister Mary Kuiken died on August 4, 2024, at her home in St. Michael Villa. She will be missed for her dedication, generosity, gentle spirit, and deep love of God and the Congregation. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
A combined wake service and Liturgy of Christian Burial was held on August 8, 2024, at St. Michael Villa followed by burial at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington, New Jersey.