David Fantle, adjunct professor in the College of Communication, died after a medical incident suffered on April 21, College of Communication Dean Sarah Feldner announced in an email.
Fantle had been with Marquette University since 2008, teaching media writing and film and popular culture classes. During his time as an adjunct professor, he taught over 1,200 students across dozens of classes.
Mimi Attard, a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences who took a film class with Fantle, said his passion for Hollywood was deeply impactful in the way that he made every student feel engaged by bringing movies to life.
“It’s rare to encounter someone who cares so much about both their subject and their students, and his enthusiasm created an environment where learning felt exciting,” she said. “He will be remembered not just for what he taught, but for how he made people feel in his classroom.”
In addition to teaching at Marquette, Fantle worked in marketing and communication for four decades at organizations like Visit Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and the United Performing Arts Fund.
During his time at Visit Milwaukee, he led a campaign to create the statue of the “Happy Days” TV show character Arthur Fonzarelli — better know as The Fonz — on the downtown RiverWalk.
Fantle also co-authored the 2018 book “Hollywood Heyday: 75 Candid Interviews with Golden Age Legends.” He earned his bachelor of arts degree in journalism from the University of Minnesota in 1983.
Feldner asked that the campus community pray for Fantle’s wife, Cathy, and children Grace, Maddie and Max.
The following resources are available to support anyone who is grieving:
- Pastoral support: Visit Campus Ministry at AMU 236, call (414) 288-6873 or contact a specific campus minister to set up a time to meet. Hall ministers and affiliated ministers are also available to talk.
- Counseling support: The Counseling Center in Wellness + Helfaer Recreation provides support services for students coping with loss, with services available on a walk-in basis or by calling (414) 288-7172.
- Student development: The Office of Student Development in AMU 329 also offers support resources.
“This is obviously a shock to all of us,” Feldner said in her email. “Many of you knew David from your time in his classes. His absence will no doubt be deeply felt over the weeks and months to come.”
This is a developing story that will be updated with new information.
This story was written by Mia Thurow. She can be reached at [email protected].
