Reverend Father Henry Lawrence Dorsch

Reverend Father Henry Lawrence Dorsch, 84, of Hatfield, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday February 18, 2026, surrounded by the prayers of his loving family. A devoted servant to God, Father Dorsch’s life was a testament to faith, humbleness, and unwavering love for all he knew. He was born September 21, 1941, in New York, NY, to the late Lawrence and Maria (Fischer) Dorsch. He completed his education at Hatfield Schools and graduated from Smith Academy in 1959. He subsequently attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst from 1959 to 1961, followed by studies at the School of Saint Philip Neri in Boston from 1961 to 1962. From 1962 to 1968, he pursued seminary training at Saint John Seminary in Brighton. He was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Springfield, Massachusetts, on May 11, 1968, by Bishop Christopher Weldon at St. Mary’s Church in Northampton. Father Dorsch held several pastoral roles throughout his career, including pro-tem pastor appointments at St. Brigid's in Amherst, Notre Dame in Easthampton, and St. Mary's in Northampton. His assignments encompassed part-time teaching at St. Michael’s High School, instructing Religious Studies at Cathedral High School, and serving as Director of the Northampton Christian Life Center. From 1984 to 1986, he served as Pastor of Our Lady of Annunciation in Florence. In 1994, he was appointed pastor at St. Mark’s in Pittsfield, and from 2003 until his retirement on June 30, 2019, he was Pastor at Our Lady of the Lake in Southwick. Father Dorsch’s commitment to nurturing young people was evident through his involvement with the Board of Youth Ministry. He played a pivotal role in organizing numerous Teen Encounter Christ Retreats, offering guidance and support to countless youths. Many who attended these retreats continue to remember Father Dorsch for his generosity and the lasting impact of his encouragement and help throughout their formative years. He had diverse hobbies and interests, such as visiting relatives in Germany and engaging with parishioners in Southwick during the annual October Festival, where he performed accordion music. He also valued outdoor activities and natural landscapes. Additionally, he was a dedicated supporter of New England sports. He showed great generosity toward others, yet his family was the ones he valued and cared for above all else. He is survived by his sister, Mathilda “Millie” Brooks of Huntington, his niece, Linda Lastowski, his nephews, Michael and Christopher Brooks, and David Tatro, also several great nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his niece Marie LaPlante, and nephew Peter Brooks. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, February 27, 2026, at 11 AM in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 99 King St., Northampton. Calling Hours will be in the church prior from 9AM till the time of the Mass. Burial will immediately follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Northampton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Father Dorsch’s name to: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 99 King St., Northampton, MA 01060. For further information or to submit a condolence message to the family, kindly visit Drozdalfuneralhome.com.

Reverend Father Henry Lawrence Dorsch

September 21, 1941 - February 18, 2026