The Life Behind #12

Bryce Andrew Gerlach

April 25, 2006 - October 12, 2024

Bryce was just 18 years old when he was tragically killed on October 12, 2024. He was an innocent bystander who was shot while attending the Harvest Homecoming festival in New Albany, Indiana.

Although his life was taken by a senseless act of violence, Bryce’s story is about so much more than how he died. He was beloved son, brother, teammate, and friend who brought immeasurable love and joy to our lives with his kind heart and bright smile.

Bryce was a senior at Corydon Central High School where he played both football and soccer. He was known not only for his athletic ability, but for his sense of humor and his ability to make everyone around him laugh. Bryce spent years on the soccer pitch as a goalkeeper before finding his passion for football.

On the football field, Bryce wore #12 and serves as a kicker, punter, and cornerback. He had relentless work ethic and dreamed of playing college football. One of the recognitions he was especially proud of was receiving the IHSAA Sportsmanship Award during the Corydon-Scottsburg football game

Bryce loved spending time with his brother and best friend Owen. Whether they were driving around town in "Big Blue”, working out, playing sports, four-wheeling, or just hanging out, there were always together.

Bryce also looked up to his big sister, Bella, and hoped to follow in her footsteps by playing a sport in college. He was one of Bella’s biggest fans and was incredibly proud of her and everything she accomplished.

Bryce’s love for football went far beyond Corydon Central. He built friendships with players and coaches from teams throughout the area. To Bryce, they weren’t always opponents-they were friends brought together by a shared love of the game.

We may never understand why Bryce was taken from us, but we know how we want his life to be remembered. “Live Like Bryce” means putting others before yourself, making people smile, loving your people, and never meeting a stranger.