Fr. Herman Castellino SJ
1946 - 2009

“Arise, awake and stop not until the goal is reached…” that sums up Fr. Herman Castelino’s life. He had more energy than dynamite and infused this into people around him.

His commitment to any cause was sincere - his enthusiasm spread to the staff, students and parents, too.

He taught students to create a balance between academics and extra-curricular activities. He visited the homes of the boys of Std X and then worked out a strategy for them to give it their best shot. He worked tirelessly with parents, encouraging them to see that their wards developed intellectually, emotionally and physically.

The P.T.A members supported him in all the projects that he had undertaken as they believed in him. Fr. Herman wanted a co-ordination between head, hand and heart, so that they’d graduate with a good and sound education. For this, the staff were given a free reign in developing an atmosphere conducive to achieving it.  Teaching aids, outings and project work were encouraged. His idea of twinning with a rural school put a new perspective to social service.

His love for sports was common knowledge. The coaches were supported by his enthusiasm and the boys flowered in this healthy atmosphere. He adjusted his classes, to be able to attend crucial matches, so that he’d be a part of their victory or defeat. “In the more important game of life, team spirit, accepting defeat graciously and fighting till the end” is what he advocated.

As much as he was “a Hitler” exteriorly his soft spot was kids…..naughty kids! If he observed too much silence in any classroom of the primary, he’d go in to do or say something to make them laugh or shout for joy!

At parties, kids always sat near him and at picnics each wanted their turn for “piggy back” rides….. his “child-like” qualities surfaced.

His favourite words were “hurry up”, nothing seemed too early for him. He wanted every job done earlier so that the final product was “near” perfect. Fr. Herman was “pig headed” at times, but if your idea or suggestion was good, he’d tell you “well done” He appreciated staff members who were loyal to the boys and the institution and showed his gratitude by being there for them in their time of need. Many sought his advice and acknowledged his wisdom. He seemed to know everything about anything - he made it his business to learn rules and codes effectively. There were very few people who felt free to question him and give him advice, which he accepted humbly.

His insatiable hunger for knowledge was relentless. He obtained his doctorate at the age of 52 and his driving license at 60 when he had to distribute communion to the housebound in the U.S.A.

It was a known fact that for a number of years, Fr. Herman was living with diabetes; but the way he dealt with it would give diabetics much hope. He kept his sugar level in control with a strict diet, long walks and yoga. In spite of all this, he passed away suddenly at an early age of 63!  One day we must all go but if we have lived life well, as Herman did, it was well worth it.

Thank you Fr. Herman for teaching us many things…. we are happy to have walked a part of the way with you.

Fr. Francis Swamy, ,SJ