REVEREND JACK DURCHHOLZ
Special to The Message
Reverend Jack J. Durchholz, 69, senior priest of the Diocese of Evansville, died on July 14, 2026. He was born July 11, 1957, in Evansville, Indiana, to the late Martin and Mildred (Folz) Durchholz.
Father Durchholz attended Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology in Hales Corners, Wisconsin. He was ordained a priest March 18, 1995, at Good Shepherd Parish in Evansville by Bishop Gerald A. Gettelfinger.
Father Durchholz served the Diocese of Evansville in many ways over the years, including as associate pastor of St. Ferdinand Parish in Ferdinand in June 28, 1995; associate pastor of Holy Redeemer Parish in Evansville beginning July 9, 1998; pastor of St. Boniface Parish in Evansville beginning June 21, 2000; diocesan chaplain of Southwestern Indiana Teens Encounter Christ beginning June 27, 2001; and pastor of St. Philip Parish in Posey County, beginning April 21, 2004.
On Aug. 11, 2008, Father Durchholz took a health leave.
He returned to parish ministry as pastor of St. Ferdinand Parish in Ferdinand beginning June 24, 2009. On Sept. 1, 2015, he was named pastor of St. Henry Parish in St. Henry, while continuing as pastor of St. Ferdinand Parish in Ferdinand. On March 1, 2017, he was named pastor of Christ the King Parish in Ferdinand.
On Aug. 1, 2018, he was named pastor of St. Clement Parish in Boonville.
On Feb. 11, 2026, Father Durchholz retired from active ministry.
Father Durchholz loved spending time on the family farm and enjoyed family meals. He was a collector of many things, including harmonicas, pocket knives and pocket watches. Father especially loved celebrating Mass for the annual family reunion.
Fr. Durchholz is survived by his sister, Janet (Bill) Peter; his twin brother, Jim (Cheri) Durchholz; brother, Joe (Joanie) Durchholz; brother, Jerry (Jeannine) Durchholz; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Father Durchholz was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Mildred (Folz) Durchholz; his godparents, Mary and Albert Durchholz; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Bishop Joseph M. Siegel and concelebrated by priests of the Diocese of Evansville July 20 at Good Shepherd Parish in Evansville. Interment followed at St. Joseph Cemetery in Evansville.
Memorial Contributions can be made to any parishes where Father Durchholz served or for Masses at the parish of your choice.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him.