New bell tower built as late pastor’s memorial

By Linda M. Linonis

Choice of the bell tower was made after discovery of a letter.

BOARDMAN — A letter found after the Rev. Daniel M. Venglarik’s death last spring hinted at what would be a wonderful memorial to the beloved pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church, 7345 Westview Drive.

After Father Venglarik’s passing on May 3, 2007, parishioners talked about a memorial. A committee was formed and 24 proposals submitted, including one for a bell tower.

As the committee met, a letter to Father Venglarik from the Verdin Company of Cincinnati was discovered. The correspondence described Trinity Tower — a bell tower with a digital carillon (electronic bells). The committee selected a bell tower as the appropriate tribute.

“Father Dan was interested in a bell tower,” said Sue Heher, coordinator of ministries at St. Charles. It was apparent that Verdin had made a presentation to the priest about a bell tower. At the time, funds for the project were not available.

The church established a fund for the project but no solicitations, fundraisers or campaign were held. So far, the memorial fund has garnered about $88,000 with donations from church members and community residents. The cost of the bell tower was about $50,000. There are some associated expenses, Heher said, such as landscaping and maintenance.

The tower, constructed of steel, is 30 feet tall and topped by a 10-foot cross. The Verdin Company built and installed it; Robert Mastriana’s 4M Co., an architectural firm in Boardman, was involved in the layout. The tower is located in the oval island in front of the church.

From a site within the church, the digital carillon may be programmed to play all kinds of hymns and selections. “It probably will be played before Masses and funerals, and perhaps weddings,” Heher said.

Right now, the digital carillon sounds every 15 minutes. Heher said Aug. 4 is the target date for the programming to be completed. She said the pastor, the Rev. Philip Rogers, would oversee hymn selections.

The date of a dedication service will be announced. A plaque with contributors will be included at the tower.

“He was such a special and beloved pastor,” said Heher. “His presence changed the direction of the church. He created a vibrant and friendly atmosphere ... where everyone felt welcome and important. He was special in many people’s lives.”

The church also honored Father Venglarik with the memorial book, “In Our Hearts,” Heher said. The tribute publication includes columns that were printed in the church bulletin and written by the priest during the last year of his life in sections called, “In His Words.” The book also includes letters from church members to the pastor and program from the memorial Mass.