FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NAPLES, Fla. — October 9, 2026 —Ave Maria School of Law joins the Diocese of Venice in sharing the funeral arrangements for the Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Venice.

We invite members of the Ave Maria Law community, alumni and friends to join in prayer for the repose of his soul and to participate in the funeral observances as they are able.

Tuesday, October 13 | Viewing and Evening Prayer

Location: Epiphany Cathedral Parish Center, 310 Sarasota Street, Venice, Florida

• 4 p.m.: Bishop Dewane will lie in state.
• 5:30–6 p.m.: Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary.
• Following the Rosary: Evening Prayer, presided over by Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap.
• Following Evening Prayer: The faithful may approach the casket to pay their respects.

Bishop Dewane will lie in state until 7 a.m. Wednesday, October 14. The viewing will take place in the Parish Center because Epiphany Cathedral is undergoing renovation.

Wednesday, October 14 | Morning Prayer and Funeral Mass

Location: St. John XXIII Catholic Church, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers, Florida

• 10 a.m.: Morning Prayer.
• 2 p.m.: Mass of Christian Burial, presided over by Archbishop James F. Checchio of New Orleans, with the funeral homily delivered by Archbishop Bernard Hebda of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Wednesday, October 14 | Rite of Committal and Burial

6 p.m. at Epiphany Cathedral Parish in Venice.

Bishop Dewane will be laid to rest in the Epiphany Cathedral Bishops’ crypt.

All of the faithful are welcome to attend the viewing, Morning Prayer and Funeral Mass. Those unable to attend may watch the Funeral Mass livestream at https://dioceseofvenice.com/livestream.

We ask the Ave Maria Law community to continue praying for Bishop Dewane, his family and the faithful of the Diocese of Venice.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

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