SIU Interim Chancellor Paul Sarvela passed away unexpectedly early Sunday evening.

The news came in an email sent out by SIU President Randy Dunn.

The precise cause of his death could not be confirmed, but it is reported that Sarvela had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer a few months prior.

Arrangements for Sarvela have not been made, but that information will be passed along when it becomes available.