Adams Elementary student who had tumor dies at age 9

Anthony Marco Perez, the fourth-grader at Adams Elementary School whose illness sparked a fundraising drive, died Wednesday at the age of 9.

In November Marco, who usually went by his middle name, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. The school’s PTA held a fundraiser Jan. 20 at Adams to raise money to help his family cover basic needs. Adams parent Suzanne Hughes organized the fundraiser and said it raised more than $17,000.

A memorial service is planned for today at 11 a.m. at the Newport-Mesa Church at Fair Drive and Newport Boulevard. Administrative assistant Nancy Hamilton said the school would invite all students.