CHARLEROI (KDKA) – Charleroi High School’s principal was laid to rest Monday morning.

Vince Vitori was remembered in a packed church on Monday. The principal had loved a lot of people in his 43 years and today they tried to give some of it back.

Morning sun flooded the windows of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Elizabeth, just as Vince Vitori had filled the hearts and minds of so many.

Father Thomas Wagner celebrated a Mass of Christian Burial.

“I think for all of us as we gather here this church in sorrow and sadness, I think it’s important for us to keep that more joyful, most loving experience that you have ever had in your life,” he said.

Friends and family shared memories of the unbelievably popular Mr. Vitori, ranging from his younger brother’s hero worship to his high school wrestling days.

“And he was so full of life,” Charleroi Superintendent Brad Ferko said. “And you know, as was said in the church today, that if we would have started telling stories about how he helped kids and what he did for kids, we would have been there for three days.”

Vince Vitori died in his office Thursday praising one of his students for having a good year. His heart gave out. His was not a job, but a passion.　

“This is Vince’s legacy. There are going to be kids five years from now that owe jobs, families – where they are now because of the words of Vince Vitori.”

Vince Vitori leaves behind a string of broken hearts. Among them are his wife and stepdaughter.

In the funeral program it said: “Do not stand at my grave bereft. I am not here. I have not left.”

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