Driving my '99 the past few days, the steering feels very "heavy", almost like there is no power assist anymore? There is plenty of fluid in the system and no foam, and the pump isn't squealing or whining... Anyone had a power steering pump die a silent death?

It may have broken the shaft. Pull out on the pulley and see if it moves more than about .020". If it is it will move a bunch.

Thanks for the tip!! Checked that though, and it's as it should be... Any other thoughts before I just bite the bullet and swap in a new pump?

Have a can of man and start lifting weights. Problem solved.