Remembering Deacon Russell Halpine
- Denver Catholic Staff
- May 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 10
Known for a life of diaconal service and deep spiritual devotion, Deacon Halpine "embodied the quiet strength of a servant's heart"
Deacon Russell Halpine, ordained to the diaconate on April 15, 1978, by Archbishop James Casey, passed into eternal life on January 17, 2025, at the age of 86. A dedicated servant of the Church, Deacon Halpine faithfully ministered at the Bethlehem Center, Holy Trinity Parish in Westminster, and Holy Cross Parish in Thornton until his retirement in 2014.
Known for his gentle spirit and quiet compassion, Deacon Halpine served with distinction as Holy Cross’ director of religious education, joyfully sharing the teachings of the Church and the love of Christ. He brought Christ’s presence to the sick and dying through his many hours visiting hospitals and offering spiritual comfort. His life was a witness to the heart of diaconal ministry, service to the people of God, especially the suffering and forgotten.
A member of one of the first diaconate classes in the Archdiocese of Denver, he helped pave the way for future generations of deacons. He and his beloved wife, Pat, were deeply involved in the Charismatic Renewal, nurturing strong bonds of fellowship and spiritual growth among families and communities. Together, they offered decades of prayerful leadership, teaching, and friendship in the Church.
Born in Great Falls, Montana, on May 1, 1938, Deacon Halpine also served his country in the National Guard and Army Reserves and retired from a 40-year career at Qwest (formerly Mountain Bell). He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Pat (who passed shortly after him), their four children, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild.
“Deacon Russ embodied the quiet strength of a servant’s heart,” said Deacon Ernest Martinez, archdiocesan director of deacons. “His faithfulness, humility, and devotion to Christ and his Church left a legacy that will continue to bear fruit in the diaconate for years to come.”
A Mass of Christian burial for Deacon Russell and Pat Halpine will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Parish in Thornton. Bishop Jorge Rodriguez, PhD, will celebrate the Mass. Priests of the Archdiocese of Denver are invited to concelebrate the Mass, as well.
