MADELINE RAINERI | News Editor

Hamilton Marufu, a Zimbabwe native, and Lindenwood student-athlete died of an apparent suicide on July 28.

According to the Bexar County Coroner’s Office, Marufu, 23, took his own life about 8 p.m. in San Antonio, Texas. Marufu had played rugby and studied international business at Lindenwood, and had one semester left to complete.

Mary Helen Walton, Marufu’s girlfriend, said he was a leader by example.

“His strong, Christian morals of caring deeply for and loving others was what made him a loyal friend to all… five minutes after they met him,” she said. “He will continue to shine through everyone he met because people as amazing as Hamilton never truly leave us. He is dancing with the Lord now; but if he were here, he would not rest until we all found a new strength and peace from this tragedy. To honor him, we must do exactly that.”

GoFundMe page set up to raise money to “Take Hamilton Home.” As of Wednesday morning, more than $12,000 had been raised to help send Marufu’s body back to Zimbabwe for burial.

[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””] “You are not alone. Confidential help is available for free. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1-800-273-8255 Available 24 hours every day, and an online chat is available as well.”

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Megan Courtney contributed to this report.