In Loving Memory of Hafid “Gordo” Alexander Alicea

March 1, 2008 – October 14, 2026

With broken hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Hafid “Gordo” Alexander Alicea, who left this world far too soon on October 14, 2026, at the age of 18.Hafid was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend whose life was filled with passion, determination, and so much promise. Although his time with us was tragically short, the impact he made on the lives of those around him will never be forgotten. His loss leaves an unimaginable void in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gordo was a proud recent graduate of Maine West High School in Des Plaines, Illinois, where he made his mark as an outstanding student-athlete. He was passionate about football, wrestling, and cheer, embracing every opportunity to challenge himself and be part of a team. His athleticism, dedication, and competitive spirit were a reflection of the determination he carried into everything he did. His love for wrestling carried him into the next chapter of his life at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where he continued his education as a student and pursued his passion for wrestling. This was an accomplishment to be proud of and a testament to his hard work, commitment, and the bright future that lay ahead of him.Outside of school and sports, Gordo was an avid gym enthusiast—a true gym rat who loved working out, pushing himself, and striving to become stronger. The gym was more than just a place to him; it reflected his discipline, drive, and desire to better himself. Whether on the field, on the wrestling mat, in cheer, or in the gym, Gordo gave his all. He had goals to chase, dreams to fulfill, and so much life left to live.

Above all his accomplishments, Hafid was a cherished member of his family. He leaves behind his loving parents, Cris and Bianca Alicea, and his beloved siblings, Mia and Mason, who will forever hold their son and brother close to their hearts. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Gloria and Oscar Vazquez, his aunts, Graciela and Selena, along with extended family members, friends, classmates, and teammates who will continue to carry his memory with them.

The loss of Gordo is heartbreaking beyond words. At just 18 years old, he had his whole life ahead of him. The dreams he carried, the goals he worked toward, and the memories he had yet to make his absence all the more difficult to bear. While we struggle to understand why his life was cut so short, we will forever be grateful for the time we were blessed to share with him.His legacy will live on through the love of his family, the friendships he built, the teammates who stood beside him, and the countless memories that will never fade. Though he may no longer be physically with us, his spirit, determination, and the love he gave will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

Rest peacefully, Gordo. You were taken from us far too soon, but your light will never go out. Keep wrestling among the stars, run free, and know that you will always be loved beyond measure. Your family, friends, and everyone whose life you touched will carry you with them every single day. You were only 18, with so much more life to live and so many dreams still waiting to come true. Though our hearts are shattered, we will honor you by remembering your strength, celebrating your life, and holding on to every precious memory.

Forever our Gordo. Forever our son, our brother, our friend. Gone far too soon, but never, ever forgotten.Until we meet again.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm at The Bridge Community Church, 946 E Thacker St, Des Plaines, Illinois. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 23 at 10:00am at The Bridge Community Church with burial at Maryhill Cemetery, 8600 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Niles, Illinois to follow. Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home. For information, please call 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com.