Konnor Stirling passes after battle with cancer

Konnor Stirling, 14-year-old Colfax student, died Tuesday after a nearly two-year battle with leukemia. The son of Tom and Janel Stirling, he was being treated at Providence Sacred Heart in Spokane. Sources close to the family said the family has requested privacy at this time and has asked to be able to take the time as a family to grieve.

Colfax Superintendent Jerry Pugh said Tuesday that the school planned for grief counselors to be available to students Wednesday and next Monday, March 7.

“We will focus on ensuring that our Colfax kids are taken care of and making sure the kids all understand what is going on,” he said.

“We'll take it day-by-day,” he said. “As long as needed, we're committed to that.”

Pugh said the school's focus is on the students and their well-being.

“We're just going to rally for the kids,” he said.

Monday, Feb. 22, Colfax High School was the site of a blood drive in Konnor's name, called Stirling Strong. Also Friday the school asked the students to wear orange – the color of leukemia awareness – to show their support for Konnor.

The school has also sold orange wristbands with the words “Stirling Strong” for the students and the community to wear as a show of support.