Photo : Courtesy Saint Ottilien Archabbey
Brother Egbert (Franz Josef) Armbruster OSB, a Missionary Benedictine of Sankt Ottilien, passed away peacefully on 9 February 2025, just one day before his 87th birthday. At the time of his passing, he had devoted 63 years to his monastic profession, living a life of humility, dedication, and service to his community.
Born in 1938 in Riersbach, a village in the Black Forest, Brother Egbert grew up in a hardworking family that ran a small farm. After completing his primary and vocational education, he worked in various manual labor jobs before deciding to enter monastic life in 1959. He joined St. Ottilien in 1960, taking the name Egbert, and made his perpetual profession in 1965. Throughout his years in the monastery, he served in multiple roles, including working in the kitchen, cheese creamery, and refectory. Even as he aged, he remained dedicated to his duties, later assisting in the chicken yard and mission museum until 2022.
Brother Egbert was known for his quiet and modest nature, always working diligently without complaint. Though reserved, he was thoughtful, friendly, and reliable in his commitments. He found joy in simple pleasures, such as reading the newspaper and staying connected with his hometown. His unwavering dedication and fraternal service to the monastery were deeply appreciated, and his community remembers him with gratitude, hoping he has found eternal peace.