House of Charity is saddened by the passing of our founder, Brother DePaul (Tom Kondrak).

Brother DePaul (seated, center) at the 50th anniversary celebration of House of Charity in 2002.

Brother DePaul started House of Charity in 1952 to feed and shelter those in need in Minneapolis.  He was 23 years old at the time.

Brother’s first dining table sat 5 people.  After the first guests were finished, Brother would clear their plates, clean the table, and reset for the next five guests, repeating these actions until everyone who had come for a meal had eaten.  Almost 60 years later, Brother DePaul’s work continues and because of his legacy, the hungry are fed and the homeless find shelter.  In fact, this Thursday, two days after Brother’s passing, the House of Charity Food Centre served a record number of noon meals – nearly 500.

The following information was supplied
by the Kozlack-Radulovich Funeral Chapels.

Obituary:
Brother DePaul Kondrak of Minneapolis. Went to his beloved Savior on June 1st, 2010 at the age of 81 after a long struggle with Parkinsons Disease. Brother was the founder of the House of Charity in Minneapolis and the founder of the Mission of Mercy in Haiti. Preceded in death by his parents John and Pauline and brother Don. Survived by sisters: Lillian Dzandzara, Lucille, Yvonne (John) Strandberg, brothers: Ted (Jane), Jerry (Audrey) and many nieces, nephews and cousins here and in Poland.

Brother DePaul changed the words of inspiration posted on this sign every week. We thought it fitting to change the message this week to honor his memory and recognize his great contribution to our community.

Memorials:
Memorials preferred to Mission of Mercy or House of Charity.

Visitation:
Visitation at:
KOZLAK-RADULOVICH CHAPEL
1918 University Avenue NE
Sunday from 5 to 8 PM with Rosary Service at 5 PM.

Service:
Mass of Christian Burial at:
CHURCH OF THE HOLY CROSS
17TH Avenue NE and University
Monday at 12 NOON with visitation one hour prior.

Cemetery:
Interment Gethsemane Cemetery.