Local ball player die on Prom night

[Cajuncubsfan]

A senior at a local HS was killed this weekend and he ran off the road an flipped him car. It was 3am prom night for Southwood HS. He was drinking, no seat belt and was partly ejected from the car.

I umpired his for the last two years. Probably 8-10 games in all. He was that kid on a team that is nice to you and always very respectful. He would alway come out to first base or when he can up to the plate and ask me how I was doing. I just saw him at Taco Bell last week and we talked. He had the whole world ahead of him.

My question is, I'm going to go to the funeral or the viewing (It will probably be closed casket). Should I just go and slip under the redar or should I dress in my umpire uniform? Just a question, I think in just going to go after work and slip in.

[poppyfor3]

If it were me, I would choose my street clothes. If appropriate, I would seek his parents and tell them about your experiences with him. If inconvenient, send a short letter later. Have been there and both parents were beyond agony and completely dazed, going through the motions. Just my thoughts.

[Thunderheads]

CCF...

Go in street clothes, do not go dressed in a uniform. I agree w/ poppy, seek out his parents, introduce yourself, convey your condolences, and let them know how much you enjoyed umpiring their son.

Thoughts and prayers

[24sdad]

If it were me, I would choose my street clothes. If appropriate, I would seek his parents and tell them about your experiences with him. If inconvenient, send a short letter later. Have been there and both parents were beyond agony and completely dazed, going through the motions. Just my thoughts.

What a great idea. I agree no umpire uniform and many, many people will be speaking to them on the day of the funeral...they will be in a daze. But a nice letter expressing what you posted in your OP will be kept by them and give them (another) tangible reminder of their son.

[JaxRolo]

NO Uniform

[Mike Prince]

No uniform. People will remember him as far more than a ballplayer, and so should you.

[Cajuncubsfan]

After I posted this I thought about it and I woul look like a dork. I think the letter is a great idea. A lot of players are going to the funeral. I think I may just go to the viewing.

I can't get this out of my head. All the kids we see and all the kids.... I don't know. Just sad

Thank you all for your posts