#LiveLikeBryce

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Bryce’s Story

Bryce was one of those rare individuals who had a way of making everyone feel noticed, appreciated, and genuinely cared for. An All-State football player and standout goalkeeper, he was as gifted athletically as he was academically. But beyond the trophies and grades, Bryce was the kind of friend everyone hoped to have. He was loyal and kind — always the first to stand up for someone who couldn’t do it on their own. He had a way of making everyone feel like they mattered, and it was his heart that made him one of a kind.

On October 12, 2024, Bryce was tragically shot and killed during Harvest Homecoming—an unimaginable loss to his family, friends, and community. Yet even in the face of this tragedy, his spirit endures. Bryce faced life with unshakable strength and courage, even in his most difficult moments. He lived by the words tattooed on his arm: Vertraue auf Gottes Plan (Trust in God’s plan).

The Bryce Gerlach Memorial Foundation was created in his name to honor not only his achievements, but the way he lived with heart, faith, purpose, and love for everyone around him

Learn More About Bryce's Story
Young male football player in black and gold uniform with gloves, lying on a metal surface, holding the collar of his jersey.

Past Scholarship Winners

Recent Community Projects

Bryce Gerlach

Want to Join Us and #Live Like Bryce?

You can be part of continuing Bryce’s legacy of strength, courage, and compassion. The foundation supports programs like scholarships for student-athletes who exemplify Bryce’s spirit as well as outreach efforts that uplift and protect vulnerable youth. Every action we take reflects the way Bryce lived, standing up for others, leading with kindness, and trusting in something greater.

Join us in making a difference. Donate, volunteer, or share Bryce’s story today.

The Bryce Gerlach Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit organization incorporated in Indiana and is officially approved by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) public charity. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Your contributions help us continue Bryce’s legacy through scholarships, community outreach, and events that inspire kindness and connection.

3% Cover the Fee

Our Team

  • Heather Gerlach

    President

  • Scott Gerlach

    Vice-President

  • Heidi Barrett

    Secretary/Treasurer

Community Impact

  • "My son, Tmac, was very close to Bryce. He always enjoyed hanging out with him and would tell me often how fun he was and what a good kid he was. He said he knows Bryce is a Christian, which in some ways makes it easier, knowing he’s with Jesus now but in some ways makes it so much harder to understand the “whys”. Will think of him and his family daily and pray for comfort and that peace that truly does pass understanding every single time he and/or the family and all these kids that loved him so come into my thoughts. 💕💕"

    Celine Wilkinson

  • "Bryce was an employee of mine. It was obvious from his interview he was an ambitious, talented, and kind individual. Truly one of the best people I’ve met"

    Evie Vance

  • "Bryce’s laugh and smile....it was so infectious and had a cheeky way to it, like he knew he had said something pretty darn funny."

    Erin Phillips