Class of ’90 Hospitality friends honor departed colleague at Homecoming

In a testament to friendship and a celebration of life, classmates, friends, and colleagues of the late David Catalano ’90 gathered at The Roost during Homecoming Weekend ’23 to celebrate the man they remember with humor, respect, and love.

“He was a character,” said one.

“He was unique,” offered another.

“Super loyal guy,” another chimed in.

“He loved his gold chains,” laughed one more.

“Catman,” as he was known, earned his Mercyhurst degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management and went on to a successful career in the field. Sadly, Dave passed away in 2020 at the age of 53 after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.

At Saturday’s Roost gathering, you could almost feel his presence in the room—so vivid were the remembrances shared over a pint and a plaque dedicated in Dave’s honor.

Tony Prusak and Rick Yarosz organized the Homecoming event, which yielded a robust turnout and stories shared by Dave’s numerous buddies, including Prusak, Yarosz, Jon Hilburger, and Eric Seggi. Also sharing stories were Hospitality faculty Daryl Georger and Business School Dean Pete Zohos, followed by remarks from Advancement Vice President Sam McCrimmon. 

After Dave’s death, friends and family created a scholarship in his name, aimed at immortalizing his vibrant spirit and determination and ensuring that his example continues to inspire Hospitality majors at Mercyhurst for years to come.

The David Catalano ’90 Travel Scholarship benefits Hospitality students by sponsoring their travel to various hotel and restaurant events, including internships, restaurant shows, industry trade shows, and beverage management conferences.

It was during an internship at Marriott Marco Island that Dave developed his passion for the hotel business. Longtime friend and fellow Hospitality major Jon Hilburger was there. He remembers Dave’s dedication as if it were yesterday.

“He was all-in,” Hilburger said. “He took tons of hours, extra shifts, always working, and always willing to help others. ‘Course we had lots of fun, too.”

After completing his studies, Dave started his hotel career as a banquet supervisor at the Founders Inn in Virginia Beach. With his strong work ethic and keen insight into the industry, he was soon promoted to banquet manager at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center.

Although David worked for several hotel chains in Pittsburgh, he considered the Crowne Plaza South Hills to be his favorite. As the head of the banquet team, he oversaw the successful execution of various events, including meetings, banquets, and weddings. David made many lifelong friends throughout his career and was always willing to lend a hand and support the personal and professional growth of his colleagues.

“Dave was not only a cherished friend but a lifelong companion,” Prusak said.

“His embodiment of the Carpe Diem spirit was nothing short of inspirational,” echoed Yarosz.
If you would like to help sustain Dave’s legacy and support our Hospitality students, please consider making a gift to the David Catalano ’90 Travel Scholarship.

PHOTO: Enjoying time together during Homecoming at The Roost are, from left, Tony Prusak, Eric Seggi, Jon Hilburger, Bill Hogan, and Rick Yarosz.