Dear Brothers,

It is our sad duty to inform you about the passing away of Bro. Teófilo de Koning on 11 November 2015.

The text of the mourning card reads as follows:

"Congregation of the Brothers of the Immaculate Conception of Mary

          "We call ourselves brothers and we try to make

            that word come true in our lives" (FIC Constitutions)

After a life fully dedicated to fellow people and his Lord, we have to say goodbye to our loyal family member and fellow brother

BROTHER TEÓFILO DE KONING  FIC

THEODORUS

He was born on April 8, 1927 in Schiedam. On August 15, 1947 he committed himself to our Congregation. After receiving the Anointing of the Sick, he passed away in peace on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 in Maastricht.

Teófilo was a real brother of people. He loved his family and this affection was reciprocated. During the 68 years that he was a fellow-brother in The Netherlands, Spain and Chile, he was often asked to be a leader.

He was already appointed Superior in Helmond, when he was 31 years old. Later on he was elected as member of the Provincial Council of The Netherlands, he was Superior in Spain, Provincial Superior in Chile and member of the General Council. He had a benevolent concern for people and situations. This was not intrusive nor oppressive, but committed: helpful, reliable, thoughtful and guarding.

During his life and work he felt carried by the Lord. Out of this feeling he could treat those who crossed his path with openness and love. In all this his simplicity was the hallmark of truth.

We say goodbye to Brother Teófilo during the Eucharistic celebration on Monday, November 16 starting at 14:30 in the chapel of De Beyart. After that, the burial ceremony will take place at our monastery cemetery near the Anjoulaan in Maastricht.

The evening vigil will take place on Sunday, November 15, starting at 17:30 in the chapel of De Beyart.

On behalf of the FIC Congregation and the Community "Overkant":

Brother Kees Gordijn, Provincial Superior,

Brusselsestraat 38, 6211 PG Maastricht.

On behalf of the family:

Mrs. T. Reintjens-de Koning,

Konijnenlaan 41, 2243 EP Wassenaar.   "

So far the mourning card.

For a photograph of him we refer you to the attachment.

May Bro. Teófilo rest in the peace of the Lord.

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General  Council  FIC  (Mr.  Willy Bastiaens,  executive secretary)