Adrian Bice, former Nebraska state wrestling champion and Columbus High School standout athlete, has tragically passed away at the age of 20.

His father, Eric Bice, announced Adrian’s death, which occurred on Saturday, November 16, 2024, and revealed the cause was suicide.

“Adriaan will be greatly missed. Our hearts are broken because he was unable to overcome his demons that he struggled with for a while. I love him so much!” Eric Bice shared this in a heartfelt statement accompanying an obituary from Gass Haney Funeral Home.

Adrian was born on July 13, 2004 to Eric and Lacey Bice in Omaha and grew up in Columbus, Nebraska, along with his siblings Josalyn and Olivia. A talented wrestler, he made a major impact in the sport, winning the state championship in the 126-pound category during his senior year at Columbus High. He had previously reached the finals as a freshman and was a semifinalist as a sophomore.

Adrian’s passing has had a deep impact on his family, friends and the Nebraska wrestling community. “We lost a great one! RIP Adrian, you will be dearly missed,” Columbus Wrestling said in a tribute.

Visitation for Adrian will take place Nov. 21-22 at Gass Haney, with a memorial service on Nov. 22 at 10:30 a.m.