Remembering Father Foster

John Foster, S.J., a Jesuit who served Seattle University in many capacities for three decades, passed away April 27 at the age of 88.

While teaching at Seattle Prep in the 1970s, Father Foster was part of a team that founded the Matteo Ricci College program, a collaboration between the high school and Seattle University. His involvement with the college continued when he joined SU in the 1980s and included serving as professor, executive assistant to the dean and chaplain. (In 2018, Matteo Ricci College became part of Seattle University’s College of Arts and Science, taking the name Matteo Ricci Institute.)

In addition to numerous other contributions to the university and wider community, Father Foster was instrumental in establishing SU’s student radio station, served as the advisor for Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit honor society, and was known to share with others his gifts as an accomplished musician. After retiring in 2016, Father Foster was chaplain to a monastery of Trappistine nuns in northern California and for the past five years was residing at Sacred Heart Jesuit Center, Los Gatos, CA.

A virtual Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, May 12, 11:15 a.m., at Sacred Heart Jesuit Center. A link for the livestreamed Mass and more information on Father Foster can be found at Jesuits West.

Related

Mayoral proclamation recognizes Nov. 18, 2007 as Father John Foster Day

Father Foster's impact on SU radio