Allendale High Senior Jacksen Fitton Passes Away Due to Kidney Failure
Allendale, Michigan—The Allendale High School community is mourning the devastating loss of Jacksen Fitton, a talented senior and a beloved member of its basketball team, who passed away unexpectedly due to complications from kidney failure. Fitton, a 5’10” point guard and a standout athlete in the class of 2025, succumbed to the illness after being hospitalized for a week battling kidney-related problems. His death has sent shockwaves through his school, teammates, and the broader basketball community.
Fitton, 18, was known for his dedication to the sport, his commitment to his family, and his unyielding spirit. As a varsity basketball player since his sophomore year, he left an indelible mark on the Allendale Boys Basketball program with his skill, sportsmanship, and leadership on and off the court. He also played for MBA and The Shore, a travel basketball team, demonstrating his passion and drive to excel in the sport he loved.
In September, his efforts were recognized when he received an offer to play basketball at the University of Olivet, a testament to his growing potential and hard work. Coaches and teammates remember him not only for his talent but also for his humility, kindness, and love for his family.
“Jacksen was the kind of player who lifted everyone around him,” said one of his coaches. “He was a fighter, not just on the court but in life, always putting in the work and inspiring others to do the same. Losing him is a heartbreaking blow to our team and community.”
Beyond basketball, Fitton was the son of Jasen and Carrie Fitton and the eldest sibling to three younger brothers. His family described him as a loving son and brother who prioritized his family above all else. His parents, active in the local community, are grappling with the profound loss, and friends have rallied to offer their support during this difficult time.
Allendale High School officials addressed the tragic loss in a heartfelt message to students and staff, confirming that Fitton’s passing was due to kidney failure. Counselors have been made available to support grieving students and staff as they come to terms with the sudden loss of their peer and friend.
The Allendale basketball community is also uniting in remembrance of Fitton, celebrating his contributions to the team and his enduring legacy as a teammate who was both hardworking and deeply cherished. Memorial services and further funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in the coming days, as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Fitton’s death underscores the critical importance of recognizing and addressing kidney-related illnesses, which often go unnoticed until complications arise. Kidney failure, a serious condition resulting from the kidneys’ inability to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood, affects thousands each year. Advocates are calling for greater awareness and access to medical care to prevent similar tragedies.
As the Allendale community reflects on the life and legacy of Jacksen Fitton, one thing is clear: he was far more than a gifted athlete. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and an inspiration to many. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him, on and off the court, as they carry forward the values he embodied—hard work, humility, and love for those around him.
