December 30, 1998
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Former Purdue volleyball player Sue Jurkonis lost her two-year battle with cancer last night at the age of 22. Jurkonis was diagnosed with brain cancer on Sept. 16, 1996.
"This is a tragic loss for the Purdue community," Purdue volleyball coach Joey Vrazel said. "Sue was a tremendous person and was a great fighter. She will continue to serve as an inspiration for us."
Jurkonis, a native of Villa Park, Ill., played two full seasons with the Boilermakers as an outside hitter (1994-95). She played in 24 matches, compiling 31 kills and 38 digs to go along with six blocks and four service aces. Jurkonis was a two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection as a health promotion major.
Visitation will be held at Knollcrest Funeral Home in Lombard, Ill., on Friday (3-9 p.m.) and Saturday (10 a.m.-12 noon). The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday.