J.J. Husar, a former standout running back at Chandler Basha and Mesa Desert Ridge, died last Friday.

Husar died in his sleep, his parents said. He was 25.

George and April Husar said their son died the morning he was to have sinus surgery. They said he was taking medication. He had a deviated septum, making it difficult to breathe, the parents said.

They said they won’t know the cause of death until they receive an autopsy report.

Husar was living in Chandler and working as a personal trainer.

“He lived life to the fullest,” April Husar said. “He was always down to helping people.”

George said his son gave to many people “out of the blue.”

Husar ran for 14 touchdowns his junior football season in 2011 at Basha, before transferring for his senior year to Desert Ridge. He ran for more than 1,000 yards, averaging 10 yards a carry in eight games with 17 touchdowns before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

He was also an outstanding safety, signing with Dakota Wesleyan University, an NAIA school.

“J.J. was a one-man team,” Desert Ridge coach Jeremy Hathcock said. “He was one of the most competitive kids I have ever coached. I am deeply sad.”

A viewing will be held at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 E Queen Creek Rd, in Gilbert, from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, it will be limited to 50 people at a time.

To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at [email protected] or 602-316-8827. Follow him on Twitter @azc_obert.

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