Known as a watchdog whose interest in running the city transcended political biases, David DiGiacinto was elected to city council in 2009 and resigned his seat when he was elected controller in 2013. DiGiacinto, 61, died at his home Sunday morning.

According to his campaign site, DiGiacinto was a graduate of Liberty HS and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and served more than six years as a pilot in the Air Force. He worked for more than 30 years in corporate business management and the private sector.

Mayor Bob Donchez said via phone Monday that DiGiacinto had a great love for the city and his respected voice will be sorely missed.

"He served with integrity and professionalism. He brought a lot of financial expertise to city council and the office of the controller," Donchez said. "He had the ability to ask great questions on finances, bonds, audits and budget issues. Many members of council lack that expertise."

"He was a great public servant," echoed friend and former City Council President J. Michael Schweder.

"I think he made a distinct difference and challenged the status quo of the local government. He refused to vote for what he believed were imbalanced budgets, and he was proven right.

"The loss to the city is enormous. I don't think he can be replaced."

Schweder described his friend of 30 years as tremendously competitive and compulsive in being involved and working hard. He said DiGiacinto was a great athlete and a great father. His son Luke is now a sophomore at Moravian College.

Longtime friend Dana Grubb said he and DiGiacinto grew up together in northeast Bethlehem. "When Dave decided to become involved in running for elected office in 2007 for city controller, we reconnected, and I knew Bethlehem was getting a candidate with the right kind of experience, strong convictions about doing what was best for city taxpayers, and a person with integrity who would act honorably as a public official," Grubb said.

"I am most saddened for his mother, son and his family and friends. I am also disappointed for Bethlehem residents, because Dave did serve as a true 'watchdog' and didn't really care about politics. He did what he thought was right, and I don't believe a finer thing can be said about anyone."

Deputy Controller Gene Auman will fill in until council chooses a new controller, which must be done within 30 days.

Funeral arrangements were not available at press time.