Fraternity Legend, Father Favret, Passes Away

By Kevin Lampe, National Vice President

Phi Kappa Theta’s manual “The Journey” contains stories of the men who blazed the trail of brotherhood. From the stories of “good fellowship,” featuring our founding fathers, to the merger in 1959, the manual explained in human terms the meaning of Phi Kappa Theta.

Father Raymond Favret’s contributions always stood out. Even though he did not join the fraternity until after his undergraduate days, his devotion and commitment speaks volumes about how he saw the role of Phi Kappa Theta in a young man’s life. He keenly understood Phi Kappa Theta was necessary.

In the early 1970s, Father Favret stepped up to the challenges the fraternity faced at that time. College life was in great turmoil during those days. The fraternity needed strong leadership — Father Favret answered that call. He served as Treasurer, President and Chairman of the Board, duties which require much time, energy and even heartbreak.

Father Favret authored a letter that appeared in Phi Kappa Theta’s ritual books. It was an open letter to a fellow priest or minister explaining the importance of conducting the ritual in a church. It really said, this is a good group of men and don’t worry — the ritual will not embarrass you or your church.

“Often times, names on a page are just that,” said Kevin Lampe, National Vice President. “It is a rare honor to exchange the Phi Kappa Theta grip with one of the giants of the fraternity. At one of the national conventions, I was able to walk up to Father Favret and share the bond of brotherhood. And, I thanked him.”

Phi Kappa Theta counts among its brothers many men of great accomplishments. Father Raymond Favret lived the ideals of the fraternity to their fullest. He truly passionately served society, Fraternity and God.

Phi Kappa Theta is better because of Father Favret and the men who strive to follow in his footsteps.

Father Favret’s Phi Kap Accomplishments:

• Alumnus Initiate: D.C. Omega-Catholic University – 1957
• National Treasurer: 1967-1971
• National President: 1971-1975
• Chairman of the Board: 1975-1978
• National Foundation Fiscal Agent & Trustee Emeritus
• Distinguished Service Award Recipient: 1984
• Served as advisor to D.C Omega-Catholic University, Ohio Omicron-University of Cincinnati and Ohio Gamma Theta-Ohio State University