Father Ronald E. Scarlata, 81, died Nov. 1. He was pastor of St. James Parish, Highwood.

Born in Chicago, he attended St. Ignatius High School, Quigley Preparatory Seminary and the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary before being ordained in 1966.

After ordination, Father Scarlata served as assistant pastor of St. John Bosco and St. William parishes. Later, he was associate pastor of St. Bernadette, Evergreen Park; Divine Savior, Norridge; and Queen of the Rosary, Elk Grove Village. Father Scarlata served as pastor of Immaculate Conception (Aberdeen Street) and St. James, Highwood, where he received the title of pastor emeritus after retiring.

Father Leroy A. Wickowski, pastor emeritus of St. Robert Bellarmine, had been great friends with Father Scarlata since their seminary years. Wickowski said his classmate retired early due to health reasons but continued to be of assistance celebrating weekend Masses at several parishes.