Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Deacon Bob Pleus, who served as a deacon for 21 years until his passing in 2021, left a significant impact through his devout life and commitment to his faith. His son, Michael Pleus, reflects on the influence of his father's spiritual journey.

Michael recounts how his father's ordination at age 64 reignited his own desire to serve. "I remember when he was ordained as a deacon, I thought, maybe this is something I can do. Maybe I’m being called to the diaconate," Michael said. He was inspired during a mission trip to Guayabal, Dominican Republic, which deepened his involvement in the church.

Vickie Pleus, Michael's wife, also felt Deacon Bob's influence. Despite her diverse religious background before becoming Catholic in 2006, she appreciated the paternal love he showed. "Because he was the patriarch of the family and a strong father figure... I felt a very paternal love from him," Vickie said.

Deacon Bob's commitment to faith left an impression on Vickie as she witnessed him participating in family sacraments. She said it revealed their importance and beauty. "It’s how people live their life," Vickie noted about understanding one's faith.

Michael acknowledges that discussions with his father helped guide him through his own discernment process. "He was really a great mentor when it came to my discernment and formation," Michael shared. However, Deacon Bob's passing in 2021 posed challenges for Michael as he took on the spiritual leadership role within the family.

Reflecting on Deacon Bob's favorite verse, Jn 3:16, Michael emphasized its significance in conveying eternal life through Jesus. He remains grateful for their conversations about vocation and faith.

Currently in his discernment year for the diaconate program, Michael finds reassurance from Vickie as they navigate this new chapter together. Vickie's passion for finding what she describes as "the original" Church complements Michael's journey inspired by his father's legacy.

"Because I’d had so many different Protestant faith backgrounds... my passion paired with Michael’s initial love of the Church... it all came to be the perfect cocktail for Michael to pursue it further," Vickie said.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff