Father Gotthard Niedrist, Dedicated Priest and Forester, Dies at 74
Father Gotthard Niedrist, a priest of the Kremsmünster Abbey and longtime forester, died on March 20, 2026, at the age of 74. He passed away peacefully in the early morning hours, according to a Facebook post from Stift Kremsmünster.
Born on December 13, 1951, in Eberstalzell as the fifth of nine children to Franz and Anna Niedrist, Father Gotthard attended elementary school in his hometown. He then studied at the monastery high school in Kremsmünster from 1963 to 1971, entering the monastery after graduating.
He professed his simple vows on August 18, 1972, and his perpetual profession on August 18, 1975, after being clothed as Brother Gotthard on August 17, 1971. He completed his theological studies at the University of Salzburg in 1977 and was ordained a priest on July 11, 1977, alongside Fathers Ambros Ebhart, Amand, and Josef. He celebrated his first Mass in Eberstalzell on July 24, 1977.
A Life Dedicated to Forestry and Pastoral Care
Following a year as a chaplain in Bad Hall, Father Gotthard pursued studies in forestry at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna. From 1984 to 1987, he assisted forester and later abbot Oddo Bergmair, and subsequently served as the monastery’s forester himself for over 30 years. He was also entrusted with responsibility for the rectory, demonstrating skill as a negotiator and supporting numerous building projects.
Beyond his administrative roles, Father Gotthard was deeply committed to pastoral care. He served as a provisional parish priest in Adlwang after the death of Father Maximilian Schwediauer and later dedicated himself to the Almtal region as Provisional of Scharnstein from 1992 to 2007. In 2009, he became the pastor of Buchkirchen, a parish he served with unwavering dedication until his death, remaining intellectually engaged with church developments and contributing to parish life.
Additional Responsibilities and Final Illness
Throughout his career, Father Gotthard also served as sub-prior and held responsibilities for the building authority, agriculture, the courtyard garden, and laundry. He was a long-standing member of the Senior Citizens’ Council and Business Council, valued for his excellent memory and leadership in implementing building projects within the monastery.
In 2022, Father Gotthard received a cancer diagnosis. Despite his illness, he continued his duties in Buchkirchen with courage and determination.
Funeral Arrangements
The Totenwache (wake) for Father Gotthard will be held on March 25, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. In the Pfarrkirche (parish church) of Buchkirchen. The funeral service will take place on March 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. In the Collegiate church, followed by burial in the monastery cemetery of Kremsmünster Abbey. Viewing will be possible from March 27, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. In the Collegiate church.
Parte P. Gotthard Niedrist OSB
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