The South Hills School of Business and Technology is mourning the loss of their president and co-founder.

S. Paul Mazza passed away from a stroke at the Hershey Medical Center on Saturday.

Friends say Paul Mazza was a father to everyone he knew, a mentor and a man who changed lives, someone who will be missed for a very long time.

Alumna and current employee of the school, Michele Lucas says he treated her like family. “It is very quiet, the air is thick, it’s a sad day here at South Hills.”

A note, flowers and a candle were placed outside of the school building early Monday morning in memory of the leader of the school. He and his wife Maralyn founded the school 40 years ago. Today there are four campuses and more than 6,000 graduates.

Director, Marks Maggs says his life is better because he knew Mazza. “he is one of the most loving, caring and generous men that I’ve ever known."

As of Monday morning, more than 23,000 people visited the school’s Facebook page, many leaving condolences.

Visitation will be held at Koch Funeral Home on Thursday March 14, 2013 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm.

The funeral will be on Saturday March 16, 2013 at 1pm at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church.