Seth Kibler, an accomplished collegiate swimmer, champion high school athlete, and alumnus of Canisius High School and Xavier University, passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 23 years old.
Seth was known throughout Western New York and the collegiate athletic community for his speed in the pool, his leadership, and his dedication to his family and teammates.
Biography
| Full Name | Seth Kibler |
| Date of Birth / Age | 2002/2003 (23 years old) |
| Date of Passing | July 15, 2026 |
| Cause of Death | Cancer |
| Hometown | Orchard Park / Buffalo, Erie County, NY |
| High School | Canisius High School (Class of 2020) |
| College | Xavier University (Graduated 2025) |
| Primary Sport | Swimming (Backstroke & Butterfly) |
High School Athletic Achievements at Canisius High School
As a standout member of the Canisius High School Class of 2020, Seth helped power the Crusaders to three consecutive Monsignor Martin Athletic Association (MMAA) All-Catholic swimming championships in 2017, 2018, and 2019.
Competing alongside his twin brother, Clayton, Seth earned significant accolades during his high school tenure:
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Co-Rookie of the Year (2017): Shared the honor with his twin brother, Clayton ’20.
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Most Valuable Swimmer (2019): Named team MVS after leading the Crusaders through a dominant season.
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Triple Gold Medalist (2019 All-Catholic Championships): Won individual gold in both the 100-yard backstroke and 100-yard butterfly, while leading off the winning 200-yard medley relay team.
Collegiate Career at Xavier University
Following high school, Seth took his talents to the Division I level, swimming for Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Xavier in 2025, leaving a lasting impression on teammates and coaches across the BIG EAST athletic community.
Tributes and Remembrances
News of Seth’s passing brought condolences from faith leaders, educators, and the Western New York Catholic school community:
“Seth was a member of our championship swim program and a deeply valued member of the Canisius High School community. We are tremendously saddened to learn of his passing. We hold Seth, his twin brother Clayton, and all who knew and loved him in our prayer during this difficult time. May Seth rest in the peace and joy of God’s presence.”
— Fr. David Ciancimino, S.J., President of Canisius High School
Family and Services
Seth was tragically predeceased by his father, Michael A. Kibler, and his mother, Catherine L. Kibler. In a poignant detail shared by loved ones, Seth passed away on the exact one-year anniversary of his mother’s death.
He is survived by:
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His twin brother and fellow championship swimmer, Clayton Kibler ’20.
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Extended family members, close friends, and his former teammates across Canisius High School and Xavier University.
The Kibler family will honor Seth’s life with a private service.