Pro Skateboarder And Model Dylan Rieder Dies At 28 Due From Leukemia Complications

Professional skateboarder and model Dylan Rieder has died at 28, PEOPLE reports.

“Today, October 12th, 2016, surrounded by family and friends, Dylan Joseph Rieder passed away due to complications with Leukemia,” Rieder’s manager confirmed to Jenkem magazine Wednesday.

“His passion for life, art, music, fashion and skateboarding has always been contagious. Dylan will be remembered by all as a loving son, brother and friend. In lieu of sending flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dylan’s memory to Dr. Stephen Forman,” the statement said.

Forman was Rieder’s doctor, an international expert in hematology and oncology fields at the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in California.

Rieder was a native of Westminster, California, and began skateboarding at age 9, winning the 2001 Damn Am contest at age 13. He partnered with several brands during his career, but hasn’t competed professionally since February.

He was also a model, featured in spreads for Vogue and working with designers like Alexander Wang and DKNY.

Many responded to Rieder’s death on social media, including Tony Hawk. “Thank you for making skateboarding so much better while you were here Dylan,” the skateboarder wrote.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Rieder’s family and friends.

This article first appeared on Womanista.com