Heartbreak again at an Elkhorn Parish.
The principal of Saint Patrick's Catholic School has died.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 52-year-old Norm Hale died in a car crash Wednesday.
Last year, this community lost lane Graves and Aspen Seemann.
Hale was set to become the next president of Norfolk Catholic School. He had very strong ties there as an educator before coming to the Elkhorn Catholic School.
According to World-Herald, Hale returned from a trip in Colorado near Colby, Kansas.
Authorities in Kansas say Hale was attempting to U-turn when he was struck by a semi.
All over social media, people are mourning this loss, shattered that this church is dealing with another death.
As for Saint Patrick's school, a very heavy blow.
Grief counselors will be on stand-by to help students and staff get through this very difficult time.
School officials sent this following statement to the students and families.
Dear St. Patrick's Families,
This message comes with true sadness. We received word that our beloved principal, Mr. Hale, was tragically killed in a car accident Wednesday. I had a brief conversation with his wife, Carolyn, who confirmed this sad news. As for now, this is all we know. Please keep all his family in your prayers.
Several grief counselors will be available in safe spaces throughout the day Thursday to speak with students, parents, and staff. We encourage you all to make use of these resources. Fr. John and I will visit all of the students class by class to be with them in this time. Stations of the Cross will be taking place at 6:30 pm, Thursday, followed by a special evening prayer service for Mr. Hale at 7:00 pm. There will be a gathering in the parish center following. Families are welcome at the evening events.We will continue to update you throughout this process.
May the perpetual light shine upon Norm. May he rest in peace and be rewarded for the goodness he brought to us all.
You are all in my prayers and anything I can do to help you, I would in a second. And I know I echo Fr. John, Mr. Mumm, Miss Mumm, and all the staff as well. This is a holy time in which we are reminded of why we are part of a Catholic school. May we be there for one another.
