Former Iowa Hawkeyes Offensive Lineman, Cody Ince, Passes Away at Age 23, Days Before Wedding

Former Iowa football player Cody Ince found dead at 23.

Former Iowa football offensive lineman Cody Ince, aged 23, tragically passed away on Saturday. His lifeless body was discovered in his residence in Grantsburg, Wisconsin. The cause of his death remains undisclosed, but it is described as unexpected in his obituary.

Cody Ince leaves behind his fiancée Olivia Tucker, as well as his parents Tammy and Marty, and his sister Carly. The news of his passing deeply saddened Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz, who expressed his grief in a statement obtained by USA Today. Ferentz spoke highly of Ince, describing him as a remarkable young man, a valued teammate, and a significant contributor to their football program.

In addition to his dedication to collegiate football, Ince had other passions in life. He had a profound love for football, fishing, and hunting, and he firmly believed in the importance of family and friendships. Ince was on the verge of embarking on a new chapter of his life as he was about to get married. Ferentz and his wife Mary expressed their heartfelt condolences to Ince's fiancée, family, and friends, emphasizing the profound impact of his loss on the entire football program.

During his time as a defensive lineman for the Iowa Hawkeyes from 2018 to 2021, Ince played in 29 games and started in 10 of them. His ultimate goal was to pursue a career in the NFL, but unfortunately, injuries forced him to retire from football earlier than anticipated. Despite this setback, Ince's talent and dedication were recognized by the Big 10, as he received an Honorable Mention in the 2020 Individual Awards, a significant achievement in the realm of college football.

Tyrone Tracy Jr., a Purdue receiver who had the privilege of knowing and playing with Ince at the University of Iowa, paid tribute to his late teammate on Ince's memorial page. Tracy described Ince as not only a great teammate but an incredible person. He recalled Ince's infectious smile, his sense of humor, and his unwavering commitment to his role on the field. Tracy fondly remembered Ince's thoughtful gestures, such as sharing deer jerky and sunflower seeds, ensuring that Tracy always had some.

The impact of Cody Ince's life extended beyond the football field. To honor his memory and his loyalty to the University of Iowa, his family has requested that any donations be made to the university's Children's Hospital in his name. This gesture serves as a testament to Ince's character and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

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