A Mass of Resurrection was celebrated July 2 for Sister Olivia Marie Bellegante, OSF. She died on June 19 at the age of 93 and was a beloved member of the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help for 61 years.
Sister Olivia, nee Mary, was the youngest child of eight in the family of Ernest and Olive Bellegante. Born in Sopris, Colorado, she enjoyed the blessings of being part of a large Italian family that was filled with faith, joy, food and fun. It was within the family that she learned to respect others and to treat everyone kindly and her faith life was born and strengthened.
Sister Olivia was ever the athlete and played on girls’ basketball and softball teams long before it was fashionable. Her vivacious spirit invited a wide circle of friends in high school. She was a cheerleader for three years, class representative for two years, senior class president and was a Junior College Princess in her hometown of Trinidad, Colorado.
She felt an attraction to religious life after high school and spent free time with the Sisters of Charity. She befriended a Franciscan Sister of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and sensed God calling her to become a Franciscan. That choice led to Sister Olivia’s long, dedicated life as a religious.
Sister Olivia earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Marillac College. Her love of teaching and working with students launched her into a 41-year career as a Catholic school educator. Sister Olivia left a trail of adoring students and friends in the states of California, Missouri, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana and New Mexico. Her life and her spirit touched the lives of countless people.
In retirement at Mother of Perpetual Help Residence, Sister Olivia’s winning smile, kind words and compassionate personality continued to endear others. She enjoyed creating art and visiting the other residents and their families. No person who met Sister Olivia was a stranger after the first “hello.”
An unexpected honor came to Sister Olivia in 2024 when the National Religious Retirement Office asked her to be photographed for its marketing materials. With her perennial smile and twinkling eyes, Sister Olivia, with others, graced the vestibules of Catholic churches across the nation.
In her Franciscan community, Sister Olivia was always a bundle of energy, ready to share a quick comment, story or expression of gratitude. No one left her without a smile on their faces. Sister Olivia lived a life of true Franciscan service and joy.
Sister Olivia was preceded in death by her parents and siblings. She is survived by numerous loving family members, sisters in community and friends.
Burial was in Resurrection Cemetery.
