The Vandal Athletics family would like to express its sincere condolences to the family of Jace Malek, who passed away Sunday.

“I am thankful Jace Malek was part of our team,” football coach Paul Petrino said. “I know everyone feels the same. Jace made me a better father, better coach and a better person. I am grateful and honored that he was part of my life.

“We love him and will miss him.”

Malek, a graduate of West Valley High School, signed a national letter of intent to play football for the Vandals in February 2015 – the day after he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. He attended the University of Idaho in the fall of 2015 and was a student assistant coach.

Services for Jace are at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Reardon (Wash.) High School.