Sixteen-year-old Cole Frederking spent his final days thinking about how he could give back to his Highlands Ranch community. The Douglas County Board of County Commissioners posthumously inducted him into the Douglas County Hall of Fame during a Business Meeting on Sept. 22, 2026, which coincided with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Cole's Story
Cole died from Wilms' tumor, a rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer, at age 16. Despite enduring intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatment, the Mountain Vista High School student maintained a 4.0 GPA every semester and achieved National Honor Society membership.
He also played baseball, soccer, track, flag football and golf. After his diagnosis, he channeled that same determination into acting, finding fulfillment with StageFlight Theatre as an actor and behind the scenes on technical production and film work.
Before he passed, Cole arranged to donate his tumors to science research and set up support for his Mountain Vista High School community, particularly the StageFlight Theatre program.
Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle: "Cole's time with us was far too brief, but he used his years to show us all what he was made of: strength, hope and heart."
The Cole Frederking Legacy Foundation
Cole's family now directs the Cole Frederking Legacy Foundation, which provides scholarships to regional students. Kim Frederking, Cole's mother and the foundation's vice chair: "The Cole Frederking Legacy Foundation keeps his spirit and memory alive by recognizing students who embody those same qualities."
The County says the Douglas County Hall of Fame recognizes residents who exemplify community values including courage, resilience, honor, kindness and generosity.
Related: Highlands Ranch — our city guide · Nonprofits in Douglas County — more local organizations making an impact.
Source: Douglas County, "Honoring a young man's inspiring legacy", posted Sept. 30, 2026, fetched Oct. 1, 2026.