BUFFALO, N.Y. — Canisius High School is mourning the loss of a former student.
Kevon Walker, who graduated from Canisius in June, passed away while attending Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania.
Canisius says Walker was a standout football player, whose smile was as large as his presence on the field.
“Kevon was a larger-than-life presence in so many ways in our building,” said Principal Tom Coppola ’01 in a Facebook post. “His graduation from Canisius High School was such a great day for he and his family, it was awesome on that day to see him so proud. Our deepest condolences go out to his family.”
Walker recently attended a game at Canisius in September and assisted the team in the locker room and on the sidelines.
Football Head Coach Kraig Kurzanski and Coppola met with the players to tell them of Walker's passing. Counselors will be on hand to assist students.
NBC Affiliate WJAC in Pennsylvania is reporting police are investigating Walker's death.
Saint Francis University cancelled classes on Tuesday so students could attend a mass to remember Walker.
"The entirety of the department is heartbroken over the tragic and untimely loss of Kevon," said Director of Athletics James Downer. "Although his time at Saint Francis was short, he made a positive impact on the football program, was well-liked and respected among the team, and showed the promise of a very bright future with the Red Flash. Our sincere thoughts and condolences are with Kevon's family, loved ones, teammates, and coaches during this incredibly challenging time."
