ALASKA
Fairbanks News-Miner
By MARY BETH SMETZER, Staff Writer
The embattled former pastor of Fairbanks Immaculate Conception Church died in his sleep Sunday at Colombiere Jesuit Community in Portland, Ore.
The Rev. Richard L. McCaffrey was relieved of his pastoral duties a year ago by Fairbanks Catholic Diocese Bishop Donald Kettler following allegations of sexual abuse of minors 25 years ago in western Alaska. It is believed he died of natural causes.
Three months later, following an independent investigation by the diocese into three claims of sexual misconduct, Kettler officially removed McCaffrey from ministry in the diocese.
McCaffrey maintained his denial of any wrongdoing.