Winterstein family hit by tragedy following sudden passing of 19-year-old Francis

RUGBY League has been hit with another tragedy with Francis Winterstein, younger brother of Cowboys winger Antonio, passing away unexpectedly.

Francis 'Fotu' Winterstein

RUGBY League has lost its third NRL contract holder in six weeks with 19-year-old Francis Winterstein, younger brother of Cowboys winger Antonio, passing away unexpectedly.

Francis was once signed to the Broncos and had moved to north Queensland to be close to his brother and play for the Townsville Stingers.

Francis was the younger brother of Antonio Winterstein, seen here almost scoring during the Indigenous All Stars V NRL All Stars game. Picture: Adam Head

The death of Francis comes after 18-year-old Cowboy backrower Regan Grieve died in late January and former Melbourne Storm prodigy Hayden Butler died on the same weekend.

In April, 2013, Cowboys player Alex Elisala also died.

It is not known if Antonio will play for the Cowboys against Newcastle on Saturday night.

Antonio’s wife Brooke posted a touching tribute on Facebook, featuring a photo of Francis and his niece with the caption “He will always be watching over you”.

Melbourne Storm’s Hayden Butler (l) and Cowboy backrower Regan Grieve died on the same weekend earlier this year.

Cowboys player Alex Elisala passed away in 2013.

Former NRL prop and now junior development coach Mark Tookey also reached out via Facebook.

“Just found out that rugby league has lost another young gentleman, Francis Winterstein. My thoughts go out to his family such loving and caring people. Sorry for your loss,” Tookey wrote.

Anyone seeking support should contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 and lifeline.org.au or Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au