Hundreds gathered to pay their respects to the late Paul Sarvela Thursday night.
Father Joseph Brown spoke to the assembly on the SIU Carbondale campus - saying all who gathered should be thankful for Sarvela's service, and for each other.
"We came here, each bringing a piece of love, and attentiveness, and concern - to speak to the family, to speak to each other, and to let our sigh go up to Heaven in gratitude."
Brown says people continually talked about Sarvela's strength of character.
"'He did what was right.' Of course he did. And he was very clear. He granted grace to all who needed it."
Brown says Sarvela was an inspiration to many - and should serve as an example for others who hope to become leaders themselves.
Sarvela died unexpectedly Sunday in Carbondale. He was serving as Interim Chancellor at SIUC, after working as a faculty member, dean, and Vice President for the school over his 28-year tenure.
A private family memorial is today.
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A public visitation and celebration of Dr. Paul Sarvela will take place in the SIUC Student Center Ballrooms on Thursday, November 13th from 4:00 pm until 7:30 pm. The visitation will conclude with reflections from Father Joseph Brown at 7:30 pm.
Interim Southern Illinois University Carbondale Chancellor Paul Sarvela has died.
In a message from SIU President Randy Dunn, faculty, staff, and students were told of Sarvela's passing Sunday evening.
Dunn says Sarvela's character was one of his greatest strengths.
"As much as we value his many contributions as a mentor and a colleague, it is his friendship and compassion for those around him that we will miss the most."
Sarvela was recently diagnosed with cancer, and although he said the disease would likely change his schedule, the prognosis was good.
He was appointed Interim Chancellor over the summer, filling the position left vacant when former Chancellor Rita Cheng took over as President of Northern Arizona University.
Sarvela's time at the SIU spanned 28 years, ranging from a faculty member to dean, and then Associate Vice President before being named interim Chancellor.
In honor of Dr. Sarvela's service to the state and the university, the flags on the SIU campus will fly at half-staff until sunrise on Saturday, November 15th.
