A former Idalou High School football star, Esteban Hernandez, passed away after a brave fight against cancer.
He battled cancer for years, and his family, teachers and classmates were by his side the entire time.
Hernandez graduated high school in 2018, but during his time at Idalou High School, he played football and was always involved in sports.
“He would show up to Friday night football games cause he wanted to be there so bad, and he’d be on the sideline wearing his Idalou Wildcat jersey with pride,” said Idalou High School Principal Karen Carroll.
His classmates made horseshoe crosses in welding class as part of a project called “Esteban’s Angels,” which they started to sell to help Hernandez and his family.
Students say he impacted their lives, and they remember Esteban, or “Big E,” for his smile and contagious, positive energy.
“I met Big E freshman year. I was new here, and he welcomed me just like any other, and he definitely left a good impact on us,” said Idalou High School senior Cade Millenbine.
Carroll says even during his battle, Hernandez would always show school spirit.
“The coaches are real close to him. When we lose a Wildcat, it’s a big deal,” Carroll said.
