Bishop Edward Kmiec, the 13^th bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo, died peacefully before midnight on July 11, 2020. He was 84 years old.

Kmiec led the diocese for nearly 8 years. He was ordained in 1961 at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Pope John Paul II named him bishop of Buffalo in August of 2004. He held that post until May of 2012.

Current Apostolic Administrator for the diocese Bishop Edward Scharfenburger released the following statement, in part:  

"He served long and faithfully the church which he loved greatly as a priest and bishop, and as one who's kindness, warm and pastoral spirit guided, comforted, and revealed Christ to so many throughout his nearly 60 years of priesthood."

The diocese said Kmiec died following an illness. At this time funeral plans have not been made.