It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing to the Lord, Br Joseph Paul Ellul SDB, on Friday evening 7 July at Corpus Christi Nursing Home in Clayton, Victoria. Br Joe was 92 years of age, and a professed Salesian for 72 years.
For over 20 years, Br Joe was a valued member of our Salesian College Community in Chadstone.
Current Rector of the Chadstone Community, Fr Joe Binh and family members accompanied Br Joe in his final moments when he left the world.
Born in Sliema, Malta on 13 November 1931, Br Joe migrated with his family to Australia at 17 years of age. He was a Salesian pre-novice in Malta, but continued his pre-novitiate in Australia upon arrival. After completing the novitiate with Br Cahill Gleisner and Fr Frank Freeman, Br Joe made his first profession as a Salesian on 31 January 1951 into the hands of Fr B M Fedrigotti. He offered himself as a perpetually professed Salesian on 8 September 1956, the birthday of Our Blessed Mother.
As a dedicated and faithful Salesian, Br Joe spent all of his life teaching. He taught many years at Salesian College Chadstone and St Joseph’s College in Ferntree Gully in particular.
Br Joe Ellul’s unassuming presence and unwavering commitment has played an integral role in the history of Salesian College Chadstone. Over his years at the College, Br Joe made significant contributions to College life. As a full-time teacher in Science and Religious Education, he ran the A.V. Department, attended to school repairs and played an integral role in pioneering ways to support students experiencing learning difficulties.
As Co-ordinator of Junior Science, he built a profound department of its time. Br Joe also made it his mission to maintain the physical fabric of the College, attending to repairs, painting and general maintenance.
Br Joe’s gentle presence as he walked through the school yard was a reassuring constant for students across his many years. Salesian College Chadstone is richer for Brother Joe’s years of selfless service.
After spending a few weeks at Monash Medical Centre early this year in frailty, Br Joe was admitted to Corpus Christi Nursing Home in Clayton for better care and support until his passing.
The funeral date and time for Br Joe Ellul is to be confirmed, but at this stage will be held in the Salesian College Chadstone Bosco Chapel on Tuesday 18 July at 10:30am. We welcome those who wish to pay their respects. Please be aware, a live stream will also accessible.
Eternal rest grant unto Brother Joe O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May his dedicated soul rest in peace, Amen.
Mark Ashmore
Principal
