William Finnemann

William (Wilhelm) Finnemann (December 18, 1882 – October 26, 1942) was a priest of the Society of the Divine Word, auxiliary bishop of Manila and apostolic vicar of Calapan, the Philippines. He was martyred by the Japanese through being thrown into the sea near Verde Island off the coast of Batangas City, Batangas.

Early life Born in Büninghausen, Soest, North Rhine-Westphalia in the German Empire, to Bernhard and Elizabeth Nasse. Finnemann was the second oldest of fourteen children. He learned shoemaking from his uncle to help with the family expenses.

Education The pastor of the Hultrop, Dr. Bernhard Köper, invited him to study in a Latin Catholic public school, where he proved a good student.

Priesthood In 1912, Finnemann came to the Philippines.

Cause of beatification Finnemann is currently in consideration for beatification. On December 7, 1999, he was declared Servant of God.

Legacy The Knights of Columbus dedicated a park to Finnemann named Bishop William J. Finnemann, SVD Memorial Plaza on 12 Quezon Dr, Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines.