College football star Ethan Walker dies aged just 20 after a ‘sudden medical event’ while on vacation with his girlfriend, leaving the sport in mourning
A fundraiser has been raised for Walker
A COLLEGE football star has tragically died at the age of 20.
College offensive lineman Ethan Walker died earlier this month with his girlfriend due to a “sudden medical event.”
Ethan Walker, an offensive lineman for the Iowa Central Community College football team, died aged 20 earlier this month
Walker died earlier this month with his girlfriend due to a “sudden medical event”
Walker, who played for the Iowa Central Community College football team, died on January 4.
He was on vacation in Florida with his girlfriend, Kenzie.
While Walker’s cause of death hasn’t been disclosed, a GoFundMe page said he suffered a “sudden medical event” while on the trip.
“Ethan was a giant in every sense – a 6’5”, 310-lb offensive lineman for the Iowa Central Triotons, working towards a goal of playing major college football,” the GoFundMe description said.
“But as much as he was known for his strength on the field, he was defined by his giant heart for his family, his friends, his faith, and his community.”
Walker helped Iowa Central to an 8-4 overall record, as the season ended with a win in the Game One Bowl.
The GoFundMe revealed that Walker had grown close to his girlfriend’s family over the years, “having been such a loving and devoted partner who honored their daughter with every action.”
Walker is survived by his mother Sara, stepfather and brother Jordan, and noted that his grandparents “wait in Iowa to say their final goodbyes.”
The fundraiser has raised over $30,000 since being created.
The money will be used to cover the cost of moving Walker home, emergency travel, lodging, and funeral services.
“Beyond these immediate needs, any additional funds will be used to honor Ethan’s memory and preserve his legacy through memorial projects and tributes as determined by his mother, Sara,” the GoFundMe added.
Walker’s coach, Jesse Montalto, shared a message about the news, writing on X, “This is an unbelievably hard time for anyone who has been touched by this great young man.
“Ethan was a great person that embodied everything we represent at Triton Nation.
“Our hearts are broken and our prayers and condolences go out to his entire family. You will be missed.“
The obituary posted by the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory website described Walker “huge in every way — from his physical frame to his heart for his family, friends and faith, to the impact he left on countless people that will last for decades to come.“
The obituary added that the funeral service will take place at the Grinnell Christian Church on January 14 .
