Former North Arlington Football Player Dies At 25

NORTH ARLINGTON, NJ — A fundraiser will cover funeral costs for the family of Alessandro "Alex" Samaan, the former North Arlington High School football player who died March 31. He was 25.

Paige Cassetta, a "cousin of the family," organized the fundraiser, which has collected over $17,000, surpassing the $13,000 goal for funeral costs.

Click here for the fundraiser.

"Unfortunately, On March 31st 2021 Alex was taken from us far to young. For those who knew Alex he was kind hearted and always trying to make you laugh. He always had a smile on his face," wrote Cassetta.

More than 250 people donated to the fundraiser, and others used the space to mourn a former teammate, friend and neighbor.

Samaan was the son of Margaret and the late Baha "Sam" Samaan. He is survived by his mother, brother, grandmother and "many aunts, uncles and cousins," according to an obituary.

"Alex had an unforgettable personality and inspired everyone that knew him. His infectious smile and sense of humor will never be forgotten. Alex's kind heart and soul will always remain in our memories. His family will struggle with his absence every single day with broken hearts," it read.

A service for Samaan was scheduled for Tuesday.

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