alex

Pioneer student 'Super Alex' Heldwein has died at age 12.

The son of Lisa and David Heldwein of Arcade, Alex fought Hunter's Syndrome, a rare inherited disorder in which the body does not properly digest sugar molecules in the body. When these molecules build up in organs and tissues over time, they can cause damage that affects physical and mental development and abilities. 

ABOVE: Super Alex with family member and Pioneer teacher Rebecca Clinch.

Alex's battle inspired many over the years, beginning when he was a student at Arcade Elementary. In recent years, people wore purple and decorated with purple ribbons to symbolize Hunter's Syndrome and the young neighbor who became everyone's super hero.

The community honored Alex one last time on May 1 with a parade in Arcade, ending at Alex's house. The event concluded with a sing-along on his front porch.

Pioneer staff also recorded a video message to Alex, posted April 29.

Memorials toward Alex's funeral costs are being collected in a GoFundMe organized by his former teacher Lauren Julicher. Along with his parents, Alex is survived by siblings Jake, Scott and Haylee.

Obituary for Alex Heldwein