The Fairview community is reflecting with heavy hearts on the passing of Father Peter Sticco, the beloved pastor of Our Lady of Grace Church, who departed on December 1, 2025. His loss has resonated deeply throughout the parish and the broader community, where he was known not only as a spiritual leader but also as a steadfast presence of warmth, compassion, and unwavering support.
Father Sticco’s legacy, built over years of committed service, continues to shine through the countless lives he touched.
For many, Father Sticco embodied the essence of pastoral leadership: approachable, grounded, and profoundly caring. He believed that a church community thrived when every individual felt welcomed and valued, and he dedicated himself to cultivating an environment where parishioners of all ages and backgrounds could find belonging.
Whether one encountered him after Mass, during community gatherings, or in quiet conversations in the church hall, he carried himself with a gentle attentiveness that made people feel truly heard.
One of the most distinctive marks of Father Sticco’s ministry was his devotion to outreach. He saw faith not as something confined to church walls but as a calling that extended into the everyday struggles and joys of the community.
He worked tirelessly to strengthen partnerships among local churches, fostering a spirit of unity that transcended denominational lines.
Through joint programs, shared events, and collaborative service projects, he encouraged people from different faith traditions to come together, recognizing the deep humanity and common purpose that bound them.
Father Sticco was especially devoted to supporting families and seniors groups he believed were fundamental to the spiritual and emotional fabric of Fairview.
He offered counsel to parents navigating challenges, comfort to individuals experiencing loss, and companionship to older community members who often felt overlooked.
Many recall his visits to homes, hospitals, and senior centers, where he brought not only prayers but also genuine companionship and understanding.
These simple acts of kindness created lasting memories and strengthened relationships that became foundational to the community’s sense of solidarity.
His mentorship left an indelible impact on parishioners young and old. For those discerning their own paths whether spiritual, personal, or professional Father Sticco provided thoughtful guidance rooted in faith and compassion. His advice was never forceful; instead, he asked questions that helped people find clarity within themselves.
He had a rare ability to balance spiritual wisdom with practical understanding, offering comfort in moments of uncertainty and reinforcing hope when it was needed most.
As Fairview mourns his passing, many are choosing to honor his memory by continuing the work he cared about so deeply: building bridges, caring for neighbors, and approaching each day with empathy.
Parishioners have gathered to share stories small moments of kindness, simple words of encouragement, and memories of sermons that inspired reflection.
These recollections paint a portrait of a man who gave of himself quietly yet profoundly.
Father Peter Sticco’s legacy will remain alive in the hearts of all who knew him, a testament to a life led with humility, generosity, and genuine love for others.
