Campus’s most vibrant corner has fallen somber as the Marquette community mourns the loss of freshman Andrew Siebenaler.
Siebenaler, a 19-year-old undeclared major in the College of Arts & Sciences, was found dead in his McCormick Hall room late Saturday night. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be suicide.
Department of Public Safety officers were first responders to McCormick at 11:57 p.m. Saturday, according to DPS Capt. Russell Shaw. The Milwaukee police and fire departments were called in to take over the investigation.
On Sunday evening, students and staff joined Andrew’s parents, Elizabeth and Rick Siebenaler, at a candlelight vigil on Westowne Mall to honor their son’s life. Approximately 300 students held candles and comforted one another while prayers were led by the Rev. Frank Majka, assistant director of Campus Ministry, and McCormick Hall ministers Margaret Andrews and Dorota Pruski.
Elizabeth Siebenaler spoke at the close of the vigil, thanking students for attending and encouraging them to seek assistance if they are feeling sad in any way.
“Listen to me,” she said. “If you think you are a little bit sad and you think you cannot do it, talk to somebody. I will always think of him as being at Marquette and I will be waiting for him to come home.”
Matt Hurley, a freshman in the College of Health Sciences and McCormick Hall Council president, spoke briefly to thank those in attendance for their support. The council organized the vigil.
“I would just like to say I’m proud of each and every one of you,” Hurley said. “McCormick, Marquette, anyone, thank you all for coming so much, it means so much to the family and to all of us.”
In a statement to the Marquette community released Monday, Vice President for Student Affairs Christopher Miller said, “It is with a heavy heart that I address the tragedy that occurred over the weekend of Nov. 14. There is no doubt this is a difficult time for our community as we mourn the loss of first year student Andrew Siebenaler. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
Andrew was born on Sept. 15, 1990, and is survived by his parents and sister, Rebecca, a senior in high school.
Known by many as “Siebs,” Andrew’s friends remember him as funny and intelligent, always ready with a joke to lighten the mood.
Andrew attended Hinsdale Central High School in Illinois, where he was a member of the National Honor Society and student orchestra.
He was an Eagle Scout, said Rudy Altergott, a fellow Scout and high school classmate.
“He was the type of person who you could talk to whenever about anything,” Altergott said.
Jessica Paro, a freshman in the College of Communication and one of Andrew’s classmates at Hinsdale Central, said her friends have been her main source of support in coping with Andrew’s death.
“Some people are taking it hard. Others have really been here to support them,” Paro said.
She said she wanted to make sure people knew that Andrew was happy and had good friends at Marquette.
“He was so excited to come here,” Paro said. “Andrew loved living in McCormick.”
Many of Andrew’s friends from high school and Marquette shared memories and thoughts on a Facebook group called “Rest in Peace, Andrew Siebenaler.” At press time, the group had grown to more than 560 members.
For many students, even those who did not know Andrew, the death of a fellow student came as a shock.
“The fact is, most of us never received the opportunity to meet and get to know Andrew personally, but that doesn’t make his passing any less of an impact,” said Emily Foster, a freshman in the College of Communication. “He was a part of our community, and I believe everyone here mourns his loss greatly. Andrew will be remembered by each of his classmates, no matter how short a time he was with us.”
Steve Blaha, assistant director of Campus Ministry, said students are encouraged to meet with hall ministers and Campus Ministry staff members, who provide grief support for students experiencing loss, as well as individual counseling during the grieving process.
“The death of a student is a tragic loss for everyone in our campus community,” Blaha said. “Whether we knew Andrew or not, we may experience grief related to his passing. Students are encouraged to be mindful of feelings of anger, depression, sadness, hopelessness, and questions of faith and seek help and support.”
Tony DiZinno also contributed to this report.
Savanna Anderson Powers • Dec 11, 2009 at 3:39 pm
RIP we miss you
Savanna Anderson Powers • Dec 11, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Missing you…
Savanna Anderson Powers • Dec 11, 2009 at 3:31 pm
Dear friends:
As a long forgotten friend, I was overwhelmed by Andrew’s death. I adored you all as a family. I remember how how much fun Andrew was and how he made me (the adult) laugh. We’ve gone our separate ways and obviously grown apart but you all will continue to have a special place in my & Sara’s heart. Andrew will be with us forever.
We are so sorry for the loss of Andrew
Savanna, Sara & Jake
RIP Andrew
We all miss you
David Fajgenbaum • Nov 21, 2009 at 1:56 pm
I am deeply saddened to hear about Andrew Siebenaler and his friends and family. During these tough times, I wanted to let you know about an organization that some of you may be interested in.
I certainly experienced some of the grief feelings you talked about when my mom battled and passed away from cancer when I was a Sophomore at Georgetown. I am the Co-Founder and Board Chair of the National Students of AMF (deceased or “Ailing, Mothers, Fathers” or loved ones) Support Network. “AMF” is also my mom’s initials. I promised her two weeks before she passed away that I would do something to help other students at Georgetown grieving the illness or death of a loved one like myself in her memory. The organization has grown into national, nonprofit to help students coping with the illness or death of a loved one, mainly by helping them start chapters of Students of AMF.
Check out our website at http://www.studentsofamf.org or watch a 2 minute video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxgnQUIyMow
Parents of a Marquette student • Nov 21, 2009 at 9:47 am
Our daughter (Class 2012)called us to tell us of the tragedy that happened on campus. Our family will continue to pray for Andrew, the Siebenaler family, and the Marquette Community. Sending our daughter so far from home was difficult and prayers helped us embrace her choice. The Siebenaler family’s grace during this difficult time is an inspiration. We trust in the opportunity for our children to grow in scholarship and faith with the friends and faculty on campus.
“May Christ support us all the day long,
till the shadows lengthen,
and the evening comes,
and the busy world is hushed,
and the fever of life is over and our work is done.
Then in His Mercy may He give us safe lodging,
and holy rest and peace at last. Amen.”
The Donohue’s
Rafia S. • Nov 20, 2009 at 1:41 pm
I am andrew’s coworker and he was also a good friend of mine… I came to know about his death yesterday. Not able to stop my tears. He wasn’t happy. He talked to me about this but I didnt know that he was in this much depression to kill himself. I wish I had time to talk to him last time I met him. I really miss you andrew. I dont feel like going to work because that place, everything there reminds me of you!! All the moments that I spend working with you were extremely beautiful. I still cant believe that you would never come and bother me again like you always used to do. I simply miss you!!
Amy S. • Nov 19, 2009 at 4:35 pm
No one is as happy as they seem. Life is difficult for everyone. For Rick Siebenaler to reach out to Andrew’s fellow students at such a horrific time and with such grace and understanding is truly a beautiful thing. I wish him and Andrew’s entire family peace. You were all lucky to have each other. I’m sorry it was for such a short time.
Mother of three at MU • Nov 19, 2009 at 4:53 am
My heart goes out to the Siebenaler family on the untimely death of their son Andrew. Although my children didn’t personally know Andrew, we have all been touched by this tragic event. From what we have heard and read Andrew was an accomplished student and a wonderful friend. It is soo sad that he left us so soon. However, we will always remember him. It also reminds us to cherish and love each other as life can be so fragile.
My deepest sympathies to the Siebenaler family.
Another student • Nov 18, 2009 at 11:34 pm
May Andrew Siebenaler rest in peace.
Don’t be so quick to criticize R. Jackson, she is stating truth.
Patricia Wike • Nov 18, 2009 at 11:34 pm
I have been blessed to get to know Andrew through the eyes of my son, who was a friend at Marquette. He has told me of the funny things Andrew would say or notes he would leave on his dorm door – just to make him smile, the way he would hang out and talk – and how much he was loved at Marquette. Although I did not have the honor of knowing Andrew personally – the young man I hear about was a joyful and beautiful soul.
The Lord is now holding Andrew close – may He also bless you and bring you peace.
Former Marquette Mom • Nov 18, 2009 at 10:47 pm
How very sad this is for all concerned. My heart goes out to all. And to R.Jackson: Forgive those who judge you so harshly. They are not thinking clearly.
Mary Bridges • Nov 18, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Already, Andrew’s life–and death–have taken on new meaning. Andrew will live forever in our hearts, Elizabeth and Rick.
All of us who were given the gift of meeting and knowing your wonderful son will cherish his memory and live each day more thoughtfully, cognizant of the lesson he has taught us.
There was another whose Spirit was left with us to comfort us in times of need, inspire us in times of trouble, and wrap us in a cloak of loving kindness whenever we would but stop and listen to the silence that is God, that is Love.
Andrew is at peace now, and his spirit will be with us forever.
~Mary Bridges, neighbor and mother of a Marquette senior
Another Marquette Parent • Nov 18, 2009 at 4:40 pm
To Rick Siebenaler (on behalf of the Siebenaler family):
Thank you for your beautiful words about Andrew. Our daughter called us Sunday with the word of what had happened to Andrew. She did not know him personally, but she and her friends were so distraught. We do not know you, either, and we live several states away. Immediately we felt so sad, though– for your son and the depth of pain he must have felt, as well as his family and friends, the pain they must feel now and the pain they will feel in the times ahead. The Marquette community is a long-reaching one.
When profound loss hits, often our psyche creates its own type of anesthetic. As the months go by, the anesthetic often wears off and the pain intensifies. Should that occur, please re-read your own words and keep reaching out for help. It is there.
In the meanwhile, I will think of you each time I see the campus, and say a silent prayer for all of you. I pray that a year from now, you feel strong enough to light a candle, or send a balloon to the heavens, feeling not so much pain, and feeling more gratitude and happy memories for the wonderful gift of Andrew.
God bless your family and his friends.
A Marquette Parent • Nov 18, 2009 at 2:12 pm
May Gods love and comfort embrace you! I also have a son in the MU class of 1014, and as I read the comments posted I found myself most comforted by Mr. Siebenaler’s message. In the Siebenaler’s grief and loss they have shared such words of wisdom and comfort to all of us. Whether we knew Andrew or not, we probably know a young person just like him. My son is the joy of many, but I know he has felt great sadness and despair too. I will heed Mr. Siebenlar’s words of wisdom and reach out to my son and make sure he feels the love and support of our family and of the MU community. Thank you Siebenaler Family for you strength and courage to reach out to us. Peace
Grusenski Family • Nov 18, 2009 at 1:41 pm
From Hearts on Fire, Praying with the Jesuits
“Seek God in all things and we shall find God by our side”
–St. Peter Claver SJ
Our experiences as MU parents ’07 & ’08, are that the Marquette community will embrace the family, students, teachers, and all those that knew Andrew with prayers and compassion. Marquettte is not afraid to pronounce itself as a Catholic University following the beliefs of Christ. Our condolences to the Siebenaler Family.
Marquette Mom • Nov 18, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Renesmee Jackson’s comment should be removed!!! It was a heartless, callous, insensitive and cruel comment.
Any one of us could have received the same call that the Siebenaler family received. Andrew just made a very, very bad choice. I wish that he could be here to read what he meant to his real friends and his family. I pray that his family finds the strength in their faith to move forward in this very difficult time.
Thank you Mr. Siebenaler for taking the time to write and tell the world what Andrew meant to his family. Hopefully, something can be learned from Andrew’s tragic passing.
God be with all of you!
Therese Squeri • Nov 18, 2009 at 12:03 pm
Rick and Elizabeth,
I just received word from Michael, our son and Andrew’s classmate in Westlake, that your beloved Andrew is gone. I feel so badly for your loss. You must be devastated. I pray that Jesus will somehow reach out to you and give you comfort. Even though you moved to the Chicago area many years ago, I still have fond memories of Andrew and Michael at Bassett Elementary School. Please know that we are thinking of you and praying that you will have the strength to get through these horribly dark days.
Therese and Steve Squeri
Westlake, Ohio
Denene von Braun • Nov 18, 2009 at 11:04 am
To Andrew’s family,
We did not know Andrew. Our nephew was a classmate and friend of his at Hinsdale and word of Andrew’s tragic passing reached us in Connecticut. For him the pain is over, and he is with God. But your suffering will not be easy or fast to overcome. So it is with the deepest admiration and respect I thank you for your letter to the readers. I plan to read it to my two teens this evening in hopes that they can learn to not suffer alone or in quiet.
God bless you and Andrew’s friends as you draw strength and comfort in the love you shared for him and with each other. You are in our prayers,
the von Braun Family
Greenwich, CT
Rick Siebenaler • Nov 18, 2009 at 9:19 am
To the many friends of Andrew at Marquette, to those he knew and those he did not, I extend our family’s deepest gratitude for your thoughts and prayers.
Andrew was a beautiful ray of light in our lives. As his father, I cannot express how great an influence he has had in my life. His mother and sister were equally touched by Andrew, every day.
Please continue to share your feelings with the Marquette community. It is in reading messages such as these that we find comfort and the strength to move ahead.
In response to Renesmee Jackson – Andrew was happy, joyful and joygiving by nature. But, as many of us do, he experienced times of deep sadness. Andrew made a devastating and irretrievable decision when he was unable to see beyond the pain he felt during a moment of despair. In that moment, he did not reach out to those who loved him and who might have helped him.
Students, faculty and frieds at Marquette: learn from Andrew’s decision. Reach out if you are in need; reach out to those in need. Know that the darkness of despair can touch us all. For those in pain, have confidence, know that you are not alone and that even in the darkest moments, there is a ray of light for you. As these messages attest, you are blessed, as Andrew was, to live within a community of love and support. Be part of it. And pledge now to draw upon it in what may be your hour of need.
As shared by Andrew’s RA after his death: “So know this, there are strong arms around you with God. I know He loves you and you live on with me, forever in my heart. Stride Forward.”
With great love, Rick Siebenaler (Andrew’s dad)
Tribune Reader • Nov 17, 2009 at 10:02 pm
The comment made by Renesmee Jackson should be deleted it is inappropriate during this time as Marquette University mourns the loss of this young man. My deepest prayers go out to the Siebenaler family during this time.
Chelemengos family • Nov 17, 2009 at 8:07 pm
To hear of the loss of such a young life is very saddening. I pray that the family and those close to Andrew can find comfort in the love and memories that their child, brother or friend has given to their joy and time. May the comfort of the Lord be with you and those who are grieving. Please accept our sincere condolences. Our heartfelt prayers are with you and Andrew. The Chelemengos Family
Kimberly Burrows • Nov 17, 2009 at 3:44 pm
As a parent of a Marquette student and the parent of another student who has suffered depression while at college, I can tell Andrew’s friends and family that no matter how receptive we are to our kids and classmates, some kids are very good at masking their feelings and really don’t want to burden anyone else with their problems. I pray for all that loved Andrew and for his surrounding Marquette Community members that you can deal with this loss and accept the support and comfort of those around you. God Bless you Andrew – may your short life be remembered forever!
Nancy Binetti • Nov 17, 2009 at 12:13 pm
As a parent of a college student at Marquette, I can’t imagine the grief this family and community is dealing with. My prayers will be with all of you as you deal with this tragedy.
Renesmee Jackson • Nov 17, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Apparently he wasn’t as happy as he seemed.
Dan Steger • Nov 17, 2009 at 10:38 am
The prayers of my entire family are with the family and Marquette community on the occasion of this unspeakable tragedy. May God’s grace rain down on everyone who knew this boy.
Teresa McInerny • Nov 17, 2009 at 10:01 am
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Siebenaler family. We can not imagine your grief! We pray the Holy Spirit will be with you and give you faith and courage. We will pray for students everywhere that they will get help if they need it and know that you will always have the unconditional love and support of your families!