In Memory of Chuck Zech, PhD

 

I was proud to call Dr. Charles Zech a friend from afar. We never met in person, but for several years corresponded on issues related to the financial and organizational management of the Church. Chuck was a prolific author, speaker, and family man, who was devoted to his children and grandchildren. He passed away on May 17, 2026 and was buried yesterday. He suffered from Parkinson's disease, but had a servant's heart always.

With an economics PhD from the University of Notre Dame, Chuck taught at Villanova University and founded The Center for Church Management at the school. It's program, now under the direction of Matt Manion (another friend from afar), is exceptional and helps give pastors and laity alike the tools and knowledge to move the mission of the Church forward. 

I send my profound condolences to his wife Ann and children and grandchildren, as well as his colleagues at the Center. I pray for his soul and that his memory is a blessing to those who knew and loved him. The Church has lost a great scholar, but Heaven has gained a servant. 

Here is Chuck's obituary: Charles E. Zech

Please also read this spot-on tribute from the Philadelphia Inquirer: Charles E. Zech, acclaimed economics professor emeritus at Villanova, has died at 79

Finally, I end with Matt Manion's concluding remarks in his email, which are exactly right and give a better coda than I could: 

I would encourage you to take a few minutes and give yourself the gift of reading it [the Inquirer article]. I would also encourage you to click on the YouTube links to see a master professor at the peak of his game.

Chuck's legacy will live on in each of us called to the ministry of church management. May his service and witness inspire each of us to search for truth, to focus on what unites us in Christ, and to love those we encounter generously and without reservation.

Thank you for all you taught me and so many others, Chuck. Rest peacefully, good and faithful servant.

God Bless you Chuck. Thank you for all your gifts.
With sadness yet deep appreciation, 

Colin

In your hands, O Lord,
we humbly entrust our brother Chuck, and all our departed loved ones.
In this life you embraced them with your tender love;
deliver them now from every evil
and bid them eternal rest.

The old order has passed away:
welcome them into paradise,
where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain,
but fullness of peace and joy
with your Son and the Holy Spirit
forever and ever.

R/. Amen.