Memorial Mass Set for Former North Allegheny Grad Who Died after Undergoing Dental Surgery

Duquesne University announced that a memorial mass will be held Friday, April 12 at 11 a.m. in the St. Stanislaus Church, located at 21st and Small St. in the Strip District, for Duquense and North Allegheny graduate Marek Lapinski.

Lapinski died last month in California, after having his wisdom teeth removed. The results of the autopsy have not been released.

According to the patient care report released by American Medical Response, Lapinski woke up coughing during the procedure and was given the powerful anesthetic propofol, ABC News reported. 

His condition quickly worsened and he was transferred to a hospital, where he died three days later. 

His family and friends have questioned the treatment he received from Dr. Steven Paul, an oral surgeon in Temecula, Calif, ABC News reported.

Lapinski, who attended North Allegheny High School, graduated from Duquesne University's School of Business with a double major in finance and investment management in May of 2011.

"Marek and his family will be in our thoughts and prayers for a long time," said Duquesne Head Football Coach Jerry Schmitt. "I can't help but remember Marek's positive outlook and the way he attacked life - always with great humility and a smile. He had a tremendous impact on all who had the opportunity to know him. We in the Duquesne Football family, past and present, join the Lapinski family in mourning this loss. We are deeply saddened yet blessed to have had Marek as part of our lives." 

Lapinski was a running back and 2007 graduate of North Allegheny.

"Marek was an outstanding young man," said North Allegheny Athletic Director Bob Bozzuto. "He was a 2 year captain that played fullback and linebacker for us. A truly sad story."

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made at mareklapinski.org. 

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