Men's Basketball | 8/10/2026 10:26:00 AM

Father Joseph Chancler, T.O.R., a longtime chaplain and beloved member of the Saint Francis basketball family, died unexpectedly Friday, August 7, 2026 at Saint Francis Friary in Loretto, Pa.

For the better part of two decades, Fr. Joe was a constant presence around the men's basketball program, offering spiritual guidance, encouragement, and friendship to coaches and student-athletes. His impact reached far beyond the court.

"Fr. Joe had a profound effect on everyone at Saint Francis and especially our men's basketball program," said head coach Luke McConnell. "He had an authentic care and ability to connect with the people around him. A true advocate for the student-athlete. He was always so generous with his time and support, as evidenced by the countless meals at Torvian, talks on road trips or visits at practice. Our community will miss him dearly."

He was a familiar face at both home and away games. At the start of every basketball season he took time to meet with the team as a group. His relationships with the students continued long after they graduated.

"Fr. Joe was an amazing chaplain to men's basketball," said Rev. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D. "In addition to being present at their home and away games and practices, he ministered to the spiritual needs of the players. He had numerous weddings for men's basketball alumni and were in regular contact with them. He would occasionally share stories with me of an alumnus that he'd recently heard from. The team consistently held him in highest esteem."

"I am grateful for his steady spiritual and moral guidance to the team," Van Tassell added. "May he rest in peace."

A member of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fr. Joe entered the Franciscan Community on August 20, 1977, in Loretto. He made his first profession of vows on June 16, 1979, and his solemn profession of vows on June 10, 1983. He was ordained to the priesthood on November 26, 1983.

Throughout his ministry, Fr. Joe spent many years in the educational apostolate of the Province, as well as serving in several parishes staffed by the TOR Franciscans.

While his ministry took him to many places and touched countless lives, his enduring presence with Saint Francis athletics made him a particularly cherished member of the basketball program.

 

Funeral Services:

Visitation
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
4:00–7:00 p.m.
Saint Francis Friary
Loretto, Pennsylvania

Vigil Service
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
7:00 p.m.
Saint Francis Friary
Loretto, Pennsylvania

Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, August 13, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Saint Francis Friary
Loretto, Pennsylvania
 

Those planning to attend the Mass of Christian Burial or the Luncheon Reception are asked to RSVP through the RSVP FORM provided by Saint Francis.