We are sad to let you know that Br. Nico Brunott passed away on March 1, 2025, at the De Beyart Residential Care Centre in Maastricht. 

Nico was born on November 13, 1929, in Amsterdam. He entered our Congregation on August 15, 1950, adopting the religious name Johannes Berchmans. He received the Anointing of the Sick on February 20, 2025, and passed away on March 1, 2025, at the De Beyart residential care centre in Maastricht.

Raised in Amsterdam, Nico left his family home in 1942 to join the Congregation FIC. He was trained as a teacher, earning his main certificate and diplomas in French, gymnastics, and primary and secondary English.

In 1961, he travelled to Malawi, where he was known as Br. John. He later moved to Zambia in 1979 and returned to Malawi in 1989. Throughout his 43 years of service, he was dedicated to pastoral work, providing religious education, catechesis, and biblical instruction. He also supplied students with homemade products and study materials, demonstrating a deep commitment to the welfare of African youth.

Nico was known for his friendliness, empathy, and patience, grounded in a steadfast faith. He drew inspiration from his extensive reading and lived by the motto of embracing new experiences each day. Family and connections with his fellow brothers were vital to him, and he cherished these relationships, actively participating in meetings. We are thankful for Nico's unwavering faithfulness and service as a brother to God and humanity.

We will bid farewell to Br. Nico during the Eucharistic celebration on Friday, March 7, at 2:30 p.m. in the chapel of De Beyart. Following the service, he will be interred at the FIC brothers' cemetery in Anjoulaan, Maastricht.