The celebration of remembrance

The Diocese of Venice held funeral services for Bishop Frank J. Dewane following his death on Oct. 7, 2026. The services were divided between the Epiphany Cathedral Parish Hall and St. John XXIII Parish in Fort Myers.

Formal services began on Oct. 13 with the arrival of the bishop's body at the Epiphany Cathedral Parish Hall. Students from Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School and the Knights of Columbus Colors Corps participated in the arrival. During the evening rites, Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., led the Solemn Vespers and Office for the Dead.

The diocese held memorial masses at Epiphany Cathedral and the Catholic Center in Venice from Oct. 7 to Oct. 9. All parishes included special prayer intentions for the repose of the bishop's soul.