An estimated 1,000 mourners packed St. Michael Church on Saturday, April 26, for the funeral of 17-year-old Alex Farese.

The high school senior died April 21, a week after collapsing on the high school track. Doctors believe his heart stopped because of a defect no one knew he had, according to the family.

Alex, a co-captain of the track team, showed signs of speed and energy at an early age, according to his uncle and godfather Paul Murano, who spoke at the funeral.

Murano described Alex as someone struggling to find his identity and independence as the fourth of six children to parents Roseanne and Rich Farese. The family sat in the front pew, some struggling to maintain composure during the funeral in which speakers described Alex as disciplined, quiet, humble, intelligent and good-looking.

Murano called on everyone to keep their faith, knowing that Alex is waiting for them in heaven.

"Alex finished the race before we did, not surprising for Alex," Murano said.

The Rev. Jerry Hogan encouraged everyone to remember Alex's good qualities as they try to move past his death, as they try to get through a graduation that he should have attended.

"He is bringing us all together as a church, as a high school, as a community," Hogan said. "He is lifting us up."

Almost 4,000 people attended Alex's wake Thursday night; the funeral home remained open an extra two hours for everyone to attend.

Students honor Alex's memory in their own way. His high school parking space has been blocked off and will remain empty for the rest of the year. The track team also will leave one lane unfilled in the 400-meter event during meets in his honor.