Fr. Louis Philippe Caissie

Father Caissie was born in Grande-Digue, NB, the son of the late J. Edmond and Marguerite Rita (Poirier) Caissie. He spent his formative years in Grande-Digue, NB, before moving to Halifax where he graduated from St. Patrick’s High School (1955) and completed undergraduate studies at Saint Mary’s University, and theology at Holy Heart Seminary, all in Halifax. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1962 by Most Rev. Norbert Robichaud in Grande-Digue, NB.

Fr. Caissie served as an assistant priest in the parishes of St. Peter’s (Dartmouth), St. Charles (Amherst), St. Theresa’s and St. Mary’s Cathedral (Halifax) and St. John Vianney (Lower Sackville). He served as pastor of the parishes of St. Peter’s (Dartmouth), Nativity of our Lady and St. Charles (Amherst). Fr. Caissie served in the Archdiocese’s mission in Chiclayo, Peru for 5 years (1967-72). He studied at the Toronto Institute for Pastoral Education (1989-90) and then worked as a Staff Chaplain (1990-92) and as Coordinator of Spiritual Care (1992-2002) at the Victoria General and the New Halifax Infirmary Hospitals, as well as a Supervisor in Clinical Pastoral Education. He ministered to the French speaking community at La Mission Sainte Famille (Dartmouth) for many years. He served the Archdiocese through various roles, namely, as a member of the Council of Priests, Director of Diaconal Formation and Diocesan Director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. Fr. Louis’ ministry also included persons with HIV/AIDS, the AIDS Coalition of Nova Scotia, and within the LGBT community.

Fr. Caissie is survived by siblings Sr. Sarah Maillet of Bathurst, Paul-Emile (Annette) Caissie of Moncton, Maurice (Florence) Caissie of Calgary, Marie (late Joseph) LeRue of Halifax, Marguerite Vicki (Charles) Lawson of Moncton, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Pierre Caissie of Ontario.

Visitation will be at St. Peter’s Church, 10 Maple Street, Dartmouth on Monday, June 26th, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 7:00 to 9:00 pm, with a vigil service at 7:30 pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, June 27th at St. Peter’s Church at 11:00 am. Burial will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lower Sackville.

Memorial donations to the AIDS projects in Africa, the Stephen Lewis Foundation or Phoenix House would be appreciated.