Maximilian Kolbe passed away on August 14th 1941 at 47 years old. He was a Polish Conventual Franciscan friar born on January 8th 1894 in Zduńska Wola, Poland. Throughout his life, Maximilian dedicated himself selflessly to his faith and humanitarian work. He dedicated much of his time helping the poor and elderly and became a respected spiritual leader in the Franciscan order. He also established a monastery near Warsaw, as well as a seminary and a Catholic radio station. Maximilian's most notable action was sacrificing his own life in place of a fellow inmate in Auschwitz concentration camp. This brave act of self-sacrifice continues to inspire many to this day. Maximilian is remembered fondly as a passionate and devoted man who brought peace and faith into the lives of many people with whom he came into contact. He will be greatly missed.