Fr. Robert Riemer, SVD

Fr. Robert Riemer SVD, a True Father in Spirit and Heart

By William Purcell

Now 93 years old, Fr. Robert “Bob” Riemer, SVD enjoys a well-earned retirement at Divine Word Seminary in Nagoya, Japan. Though more than 15 years have passed since his active ministry, hardly a week goes by without a visit, call, or message from someone whose life he has touched. His circle spans generations and nationalities—former students, colleagues, and friends who continue to seek his counsel, friendship, or priestly presence at weddings, talks, and baptisms.

In the late 1960s, Fr. Bob joined Nanzan’s Department of British and American Studies, offering courses in American society and Christian studies while also serving at the Logos Center, the university’s Catholic chaplaincy. Responding to his superiors’ request to guide overseas seminarians preparing for work in Japan, he founded and directed the Xavier House program—a formation community that welcomed SVD candidates and lay collaborators from around the world. 

It was at Xavier House that I first met Bob. Like me, many young men, including several Divine Word College alumni, experienced his wisdom, humor, and fatherly care. Among them were Fr. Bob Kisala, SVD, who would later serve as provincial superior in Japan, vice superior general of the Society, and today as president of Nanzan University; Pat Hagerty, who followed his call to a career in mental health services for the marginalized in Minnesota; Fr. Manolo Corral, SVD, who has devoted his priestly ministry to biblical education in Mexico; Fr. Willie Santamaria, SVD, who serves in Spain in the communications apostolate; Fr. Alberto Escoto, SVD, now in pastoral ministry in Ireland and the UK; and Francisco “Kito” Estepa, who continues to serve in education administration in the Philippines.

Each found in Fr. Bob not only a rector but also a mentor, guide, and friend. He took a personal interest in each of us. He helped us discern where God was calling us and encouraged us to follow it—whether that meant religious life, priesthood, or service in the world.

For some, that guidance led to missionary service; for others, to family life and secular vocations deeply marked by the Arnoldus spirit. Yet all agree that Fr. Bob’s influence shaped their understanding of faith, service, and community. His combination of intellect and compassion made him an enduring example of what it means to live as a Divine Word Missionary.