A 43-year-old man from the far southwest suburbs has died, just 18 months after securing a $2 million settlement with the Catholic Church over allegations of sexual abuse by an Augustinian priest during his time as a student at Providence Catholic High School in the 1990s. Robert Krankvich’s death in April is reportedly linked to long-term health issues exacerbated by substance abuse, which family members believe stemmed from the trauma he suffered.
Krankvich’s father described his son as someone who battled inner demons, stating, “He was using that stuff to mask his hurt and pain.” Following the settlement, which the church did not admit wrongdoing, Krankvich reflected on his struggles, expressing that financial compensation had not provided him with closure.
Unlike many victims of clergy sexual abuse, Krankvich chose to publicly share his story during a press conference in 2018 when he filed his lawsuit. He aimed to combat the stigma surrounding survivors and to provide encouragement to others in similar situations. “I’ve decided to come forward because I’ve been living in shame and in guilt for my entire adult life,” he remarked at the time, emphasizing his struggles with addiction and suicidal thoughts.
The case highlighted persistent issues within the Catholic Church regarding transparency in handling sex abuse allegations. Despite church leaders suggesting that the long-standing crisis was a thing of the past, Krankvich’s situation underscored ongoing concerns, especially as the accused priest, Rev. Richard McGrath, remained at Providence until a child pornography investigation sidelined him in 2017. The lawsuit included accusations that a student had seen inappropriate images on McGrath’s phone, raising alarms about the conduct of Augustinian clergy.
The Augustinian order has faced scrutiny for its approach to allegations of sexual abuse, having been slow to release information on accused members. Amid increasing pressure for accountability, the order released a list of alleged offenders in 2024, but notably excluded McGrath, stating that accusations against him had not been substantiated.
In depositions related to the lawsuit, McGrath denied any inappropriate conduct and invoked his Fifth Amendment right when questioned about potential viewing of child pornography. The church’s handling of such allegations has contributed to growing distrust within the community, with many victims expressing that the pain never truly fades.
Krankvich’s attorney pointed out a troubling trend: many victims of clerical abuse often die young, sometimes as a result of substance abuse or suicide. “It’s a very difficult burden to carry,” said attorney Marc Pearlman. The Augustinian order recently acknowledged the harm suffered by minors in a statement expressing sorrow and urging more victims to come forward.
Despite the emotional and physical toll, friends and family remembered Krankvich as courageous for his decision to speak out. Ken Kaczmarz, himself a victim, heralded Krankvich’s bravery, recalling his own experience of being dismissed by church officials when he attempted to share his story two decades prior.
The fallout from the abuse crisis has caused declining participation in church activities, with many congregations closing across the nation. The impact of these revelations continues to shake the faith of parishioners, with Krankvich’s father admitting to losing faith in religion entirely.
Krankvich’s health troubles included heart disease and liver complications, and he was found dead in his home on April 11. Although toxicology reports are pending, preliminary details suggest a tragic end to a life marked by struggle.
As the Augustinians held their annual gala to support their missions, the community remained reflective on the ongoing ramifications of the abuse crisis. Many attendees shared tributes, expressing gratitude for the impact of the order while grappling with the weight of past allegations.
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