Father Donald VanAmburgh

 

Father Donald VanAmburgh died on December 26, 2006.

Father Van was my High School principal and my baseball coach when I attended Seton Catholic High School in Endicott, NY from 1969 through 1973. He was offered a chance to tryout with the Brooklyn Dodgers and was smart enough to be an civil engineer,like his father. But he chose the priesthood instead.

Playing baseball for him was a treat. He was one of those guys who could hit balls one-handed anywhere he wanted them to go. I played centerfield when I wasn't pitching and he would hit fungoes to me during practice - but never AT me. Run to the left; run to the right.

My favorite memories of Father Van are the annual "State of the School" addresses. He would come on to the stage in his cassock to a standing ovation, and leave to another standing ovation. Think about that kids - the PRINCIPAL given a standing ovation!

In his later years, I would hear from him through my mom. I kept thinking to myself I should write him a letter and tell him what a huge influence he had been on my life...but never did. I regret it so I will have to tell him face-to-face in heaven. I know he'll be there; I've got some work to do.

"Et introibo ad altare Dei: ad deum, qui laetificat juventutem meam."