18-year-old University of Dayton student from La Grange dies of COVID-19

A University of Dayton student from west suburban La Grange died Thursday of complications from COVID-19, according to the university.

Michael Lang, 18, was a first-year student in the College of Arts and Sciences and a graduate of Lyons Township High School. He left campus in Dayton, Ohio, on Sept. 13 to return home for remote learning, the university said in an email Friday to students, faculty and staff.

Lang was hospitalized for a “lengthy” period of time before dying from complications of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, the university said.

“We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to his family, friends, professors and our campus community,” University President Eric F. Spina wrote. “Campus ministers, housing and residence life, and counseling staff are always available for you and for those you know who may be deeply affected by this loss.”

Like many other colleges across the country, the University of Dayton has been working to limit the spread of the virus on campus. Since Aug. 10, the university has recorded 1,414 cases on campus, according to its online database.

The university held a candlelight vigil for Lang Friday afternoon.

Lang enjoyed golfing and worked summers as a caddy at La Grange Country Club, according to an obituary posted to Legacy.com.

A visitation will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Hallowell & James Funeral Home in Countryside. A prayer service is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, with a memorial mass expected to start at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church in La Grange. Due to coronavirus restrictions, the memorial mass will be streamed on the church’s Facebook page.