The town of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, is mourning the loss of 10-year-old Bryson Funk, who passed away just one day after helping his baseball team, the Linglestown Colts, win a championship game. Bryson, who pitched the final innings on June 11, collapsed the following morning from sudden cardiac arrest. His family later revealed he had an undiagnosed case of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart.
Bryson’s sudden passing deeply affected his teammates, especially his best friend, 9-year-old Elias Vilfort. The two boys were inseparable, bonding over baseball, trading cards, and outings to Hersheypark. In a touching tribute, Elias drew Bryson’s jersey number on the field and promised to honor his friend’s memory in future games. The boys had been looking forward to playing on the same All-Star team that weekend.
The tragedy brought the community together in an outpouring of support. A GoFundMe campaign quickly raised over $45,000 to assist Bryson’s family with funeral costs. Friends, coaches, and neighbors shared tributes remembering Bryson as a kind-hearted and joyful child. Even those who never met him offered prayers, cards, and donations to help the grieving family.
Bryson’s story also raised awareness of the risks of undiagnosed heart conditions in children. The Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation reminded families that one in 300 children is at risk for sudden cardiac arrest. Though Bryson’s life was heartbreakingly short, he left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him, remembered for his bright spirit both on and off the baseball field.