Father Howard Muhlbaier, 81, retired pastor, teacher and hospital chaplain in the Diocese of Camden, died on Feb. 22.
An ordained priest for over 50 years, he most recently resided at Cherry Hill’s Saint Mary Villa.
Born on June 16, 1938, in Swedesboro, he underwent studies for the priesthood at Saint Charles College, Loyola College, and Saint Mary Seminary, all in Maryland, and was ordained on May 22, 1965 in Camden by Archbishop Celestine J. Damiano.
Father Muhlbaier’s first assignment was as parochial vicar at Incarnation, Mantua, from 1965-71. He also served in this capacity at Our Lady Queen of Peace, Pitman (1971-75); Saint Andrew the Apostle, Gibbsboro (1975-1976); Saint Maurice, Brooklawn (1976-80); and Saints Peter and Paul, Turnersville (1990-92).
From 1992-2000, he was pastor of Assumption Parish in Atco, after which he served as chaplain at Kennedy Hospital in Washington Township until 2008. He was senior priest at Saint Andrew, Gibbsboro, 2008-12.
In Catholic schools, Father Muhlbaier was on the faculty of Gloucester Catholic High School, and later became guidance director at Paul VI, Haddonfield.
There will be a viewing on Wednesday, March 4th at 8:30 a.m. at Saint Clare of Assisi Parish (Saint Joseph Church), 140 Broad Street, Swedesboro where a Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. Bishop Dennis Sullivan will be the main celebrant.
Burial will take place at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery, Swedesboro.