Cyril De Vliegher

     Cyril De Vliegher, aged 92, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, in South Bend, Indiana. Born on May 7, 1932, to Cyriel and Zulma (Catrie) De Vliegher, his early years were marked by a profound dedication to education

     Cyril's educational journey began at St. Bavo Elementary school, where he graduated in 1946. Shortly thereafter, he attended Sacred Heart Seminary in Fort Wayne, before moving on to Our Lady of the Lake Seminary in Wawasee, Indiana. His commitment to academic excellence led him to obtain a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy from St. Meinrad Seminary in 1954, followed by continued theological studies until 1956.

     Cyril proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959, spending 14 months stationed in Germany. Upon his return, he furthered his education by completing a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching from the University of Notre Dame in 1962. Cyril’s passion for education transitioned into a rewarding career as he became a respected Social Studies and English teacher at St. Joseph High School, where he worked from 1962 to 1970. He also served as the school's athletic director from 1963 through 1969. His teaching journey took him to Marian High School in 1970-71, where he was an English teacher before stepping into the role of event manager at the Notre Dame Athletic and Convocation Center.

     In August of 1970, Cyril married Irene Trippel at St. Joseph Church in Mishawaka, and together they had a son, Mark De Vliegher. Mark sadly passed away on December 10, 2022. Cyril was also preceded in death by his siblings Alois and his wife Vivian, Herman and his wife Stephanie, and Reverend. Joseph F. De Vliegher CSC.

     Cyril’s dedication to shaping young minds was evident when he was appointed principal of Marian High School in 1972, a position he held with distinction until 1982. In the following years, his career path turned to sales, working in the insurance and educational materials realm. He later joined the Liberty Mutual Insurance Company in the building maintenance department from 1984 until his retirement in 1997. Even after retirement, he remained active, working part-time for the South Bend Hebrew Orthodox yeshiva in their maintenance department.

     Throughout his life, Cyril was deeply involved with his community, particularly with St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mishawaka. As a devoted member, he contributed as a lector, server, and took pride in lending his voice to the parish choir and schola. Cyril's interests outside of work and church were as heartfelt as his vocation; he was an avid gardener and found great joy in woodworking, skills he honed with patience and creativity.

     Cyril's memory is cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His steadfast presence as an educator, a community servant, and a craftsman who could shape both minds and wood with equal skill, is a legacy that will endure for many years to come.

     A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 3:00 – 5:00 PM, In Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W 8th street, Mishawaka, with a rosary beginning at 4:30 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 23, 2024, at 11:30 AM, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mishawaka,220 W 4th Street, Mishawaka.  

     In Lieu of flowers, the family askes that donations be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Mishawaka, or the Woman’s Care Center, 605 Lincolnway E, Mishawaka.

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