WEST LAFAYETTE — The Purdue super fan, Tyler Trent, has passed away tonight after his courageous fight with bone cancer.
It’s with the deepest sorrow that we have to say goodbye to @theTylerTrent. We have all become #TylerStrong. To his family, words can’t express how sorry we are that he has passed. His life May have been short, but his legacy with be forever. pic.twitter.com/rONp00YoeK
— Purdue Cancer Center (@PUCancerCenter) January 2, 2019
Tyler has impacted the entire nation as they followed his journey with terminal cancer.
This was demonstrated on social media Tuesday night, as thousands from coast to coast expressed their sorrows, memories and prayers for the 20 year old and his family.
RIP @theTylerTrent. Your fight, determination and inspiration to so many will not be forgotten.
— Purdue’s Matt Painter (@CoachPainter) January 2, 2019
Your impact will continue for many years. #TylerStrong
Remarkable is best description of @theTylerTrent. He taught me, our team, our university, our world, so much about belief, courage, selflessness, & living each day w/ true purpose. Tyler changed the attitudes of more people than any person I have ever known. Love you T2. pic.twitter.com/xmbhDk8XfM
— Dave Shondell (@DaveShondell) January 2, 2019
Trent won the Disney's Wide World of Sports Spirit Award in December 2018. The 20 year old also received the Sagamore of the Wabash award from Gov. Eric Holocomb.
The Purdue student used his fame to help cancer research. Tyler gained national attention when he attended Purdue’s upset win over Ohio State earlier this season. Since then, he’s been raising money for the Tyler Trent Cancer Research Endowment to support cancer research at Purdue University.
I promised Tyler Trent we'd save him a chair on our set. We'll honor that promise at the close of the show tonight.
— Scott Van Pelt (@notthefakeSVP) January 2, 2019
We'll forever be inspired by you, @theTylerTrent.
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) January 2, 2019
Rest In Peace. #TylerStrong pic.twitter.com/UMiFFMnXBp
Heartbroken.
— Purdue Men’s Basketball (@BoilerBall) January 2, 2019
RIP @theTylerTrent. Lived life to the fullest and made a mammoth impact on the #Purdue community.
You’ve been an inspiration to an entire country. #TylerStrong 💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/qokYKtm35X
Governor Eric Holcomb shared a formal statement after Tyler's passing saying, “Tyler Trent was among the biggest, strongest and wisest people you could ever meet. He reminded us what being good is all about. I’m convinced Tyler was touched by our Lord and guided home every step of the way. Janet and I send our love to the Trent family and remain here for them.”
Purdue Athletics said that the entire Purdue Athletics family has been touched by his courageous battle.
"First and foremost, we offer our condolences to Tyler’s family and friends. While there are no words to ease the hurt at times like this, we hope some comfort can be found in knowing what an inspiration Tyler is to our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans. Tyler was the embodiment of a true Boilermaker who will live on in each of us. We will forever be #TylerStrong."
