The town of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 10-year-old Bryson Funk, who passed away unexpectedly on June 12, 2025—just hours after leading his baseball team, the Linglestown Colts, to a championship victory. Bryson had pitched the final innings of the game, celebrating a moment of triumph that tragically turned into loss when he collapsed the next morning. His sudden death was later attributed to myocarditis, leaving his family, teammates, and the broader community in shock. Close friend and teammate Elias Vilfort honored Bryson by writing his jersey number, “3,” around their neighborhood park, remembering his energetic and joyful spirit both on and off the field. The two boys shared a close bond through baseball, family outings, and dreams of joining the All-Star team together—dreams cut short far too soon.

Support quickly poured in from across the community. A GoFundMe organized by family member Nicki Brantner raised over $45,000 to help with funeral expenses, while social media became a space for grieving loved ones to share tributes to Bryson’s kindness and passion for life. Organizations like 717 Athletics, along with friends and relatives such as Armond Carter and Dean Behrendt, expressed their sorrow and cherished memories of Bryson. The Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation highlighted his story to raise awareness about the risks of sudden cardiac arrest in children, emphasizing that even seemingly healthy kids can be vulnerable. In the midst of loss, Bryson’s legacy lives on through the love and unity he inspired.