courtesy of The Mining Journal, Marquette, MI
NMU’s SID Faiella dies, by Bill Harris, Journal Sports Editor
MARQUETTE, MI - Dave Faiella, the Sports Information Director at Northern Michigan University, died Wednesday afternoon (Dec. 1) during his long recovery from a massive heart attack last week.
Faiella collapsed at approximately 3 p.m. Wednesday while watching TV with his mom and he was brought by ambulance to Marquette General Hospital where he was unable to be revived.
Faiella was named the SID in 2003 after joining NMU in 2001 from Finlay University to serve as the assistat SID, and played an integral behind-the-scenes part for Wildcat athletics for the past nine years.
"While he passed way too young," NMU Associate Athletic Director Steve Reed said in an NMU release, "he lived a very full life.
"He traveled extensively and indulged in his passion of surfing every chance he could."
Faiella had spent time in the hospital in 2010 while struggling with diabetes and kidney problems, but will be remembed for his easy-going demeanor, never-ending smile and gentle approach to all those who encountered him.
He was 49 years old.
Funeral arraingments are incomplete.