Priest’s suicide on Valentine’s Day saddens Fargo diocese

FARGO — The Fargo Catholic Diocese is reeling from the apparent suicide of a 45-year-old priest on Valentine’s Day in the rectory of Nativity Catholic Church.

The Rev. David Syverson was found dead after apparently shooting himself in a guest room of the priest’s residence next to the church at 1825 11th St. S., Fargo Police Lt. Joel Vettel said.

In an email message sent to clergy and diocesan staff on Wednesday, Bishop Samuel J. Aquila wrote “with great difficulty and sadness” of the suicide and death of Syverson, who had struggled with and received treatment for alcohol and medication addiction, anxiety and depression, according to a news release that was already prepared when The Forum contacted the diocese.

Aquila asked clergy and staff to “please pray for all affected by his death, especially his mother and family members.”

Syverson was staying at the rectory while attending outpatient treatment, said Vettel, a Nativity parishioner.

No foul play is suspected in Syverson’s death, which remains under investigation pending autopsy results, Vettel said.

Mike Nowatzki is a reporter at The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead, which is owned by Forum Communications Co.

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