When the Orange County Catholic, the official newspaper of the Diocese of Orange, decided to run a series entitled, “Lifetime Legacy,” they were inspired to choose our own Gabriel Ferrucci, KM, to launch this series. The entire March 2020 issue of the Orange County Catholic is dedicated to sharing Gabriel’s story.

You can read about the fascinating tale of Gabriel’s life journey and transformation from his birth into an Italian farm family in Amorosi Italy, to a titan of industry and major benefactor of the Church through this link: https://occatholic.com/gabriel-ferrucci-an-inspired-life-story/.

Gabriel’s hard work and generosity, with his late wife Maria by his side, could be described as extending like roots into many parts of the Church. His work has earned Gabriel the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal from Pope Benedict XVI. His close collaboration with the most recent three popes is evident in the letters and pictures from each of them which adorn his study at home.

Gabriel was a major benefactor and project manager for the new St. Michael’s Abbey in Orange County. His persistence and business acumen ushered the project through the land acquisition and the red tape of permits and other impediments. He remains the project manager for the new abbey construction. The Norbertine fathers there routinely sing his praises!

As if the abbey were not enough to keep him busy, Gabriel also became involved in the Christ Cathedral project. It was Gabriel who arranged and managed the major refurbishment of the famous Hazel Wright organ, using Fratelli Ruffatti studios in Italy. His commitment was such that he and Maria graciously hosted Fratelli Ruffatti technicians in their home as their work moved from Italy to the cathedral.

The roots of his generosity extend down to the parish level and also to the support of seminarians studying in Rome.

Gabriel has been a very active member of the Orange Location of the Order of Malta for many years, always ready to roll up his sleeves for our lords. His daughter, Rina Benton, was inspired by her dad to become a Dame and she also is very active in the Orange Location.

Not wishing to spoil this astounding story about a remarkably generous and selfless man, please click on the link yourself and be inspired by the story of the legacy of Gabriel Ferrucci.

On Sunday, March 21^st, Maria, Gabriel’s wife, fell asleep in the Lord. Please join us in praying for the repose of her soul, and praying for the entire Ferrucci family.