Notre Dame, Ind. — The Notre Dame College Prep community is mourning the sudden loss of Fr. Ken Molinaro, CSC, a former principal and the school’s first president, whose leadership helped shape the institution during a period of significant growth and transition.
Originally from South Bend, Indiana, Fr. Molinaro entered priestly life as a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross. He spent several years serving as an educator in South Bend-area schools before joining Notre Dame High School, where he served as principal throughout much of the 1990s. He later became the school’s first president.
During his tenure, Fr. Molinaro played a key role in guiding Notre Dame College Prep into more modern approaches to fundraising and enrollment, while maintaining a strong commitment to the core values of a Holy Cross education. Former students and colleagues remember him as a steady and principled leader who was widely admired and deeply respected within the school community.
After completing his service at Notre Dame College Prep, Fr. Molinaro continued his work with the Congregation of Holy Cross in leadership roles at the provincial and congregational levels. His service included leadership of the Holy Cross novice house in Colorado, as well as assignments in Rome.
Principal Dan Tully, a 1994 graduate of Notre Dame, reflected on Fr. Molinaro’s influence, describing him as a priest who exemplified the Holy Cross value of gentleness. Tully noted that Fr. Molinaro set high expectations while leading with quiet authority, earning the respect and affection of students and staff alike.
“Fr. Ken was deeply loved by all who worked, lived, and laughed with him,” Tully said, adding that his guidance left a lasting impact on both his students and colleagues.
A Wake Service for Fr. Molinaro will be held Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET at Moreau Seminary and Scholasticate in Notre Dame, Indiana. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Monday, February 16, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. ET at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on the University of Notre Dame campus.
Fr. Ken Molinaro is remembered for his lifelong commitment to education, faith, and service, and for the enduring legacy he leaves within the Notre Dame College Prep and Holy Cross communities.
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