Eric Lederman Remembered for 'Infectious Smile'

The following news release was provided by District 308 and Oswego Baseball and Softball Association.

April 13, 2012

It is with great sadness that and the Oswego Baseball and Softball Association (OBSA) mourn the sudden passing of a sixth-grade Thompson Junior High School student and OBSA 12U-Orange travel baseball team member.

During a baseball game in Wheaton Wednesday evening, the 12-year old boy was accidentally struck in the neck with a ball. The boy was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove and then air lifted to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge where he passed away Thursday evening.

According to the Thompson staff, he was a student who had great character and a wonderful sense of humor.  As a member of the wrestling team he was always willing to help out: in practice, at meets, or in the hallways. His caring attitude towards his peers, quick wit and dedication to teamwork are things that will be remembered about him at Thompson Junior High. 

Individuals throughout the area are greatly affected by the news as an older sibling and his team members attend various schools throughout the district.

In response, school counselors, social workers and nurses are available at every school to assist students and staff who are personally touched by this news. Parents are encouraged to be especially sensitive to their children’s response to this tragedy and to inform the school if their children are in need of additional support.

“He was an inspiration to his teammates, coaches, and baseball family,” said his baseball coach, Brian Zacker.  He played in-house baseball for two years followed by OBSA travel baseball for three years wearing #2 with his primary positions being catcher, third base, and centerfield. 

“He played with an infectious smile and played the game with tremendous passion and heart,” Zacker continued.  His trademark move was to clap his batting gloves together continuously when he got on base to distract the pitcher. We could always hear when he was on base. He was also the comedian of the team. Whether we lost 2-1 or 20-1, he would always say something in our post game huddle that would make us laugh. He brought a tremendous amount of joy, passion, and love to his team, coaches, and baseball family and we will never forget him. He may have been #2 in the field, but he will always be #1 in our hearts.”  

Heartfelt sympathy goes out from District 308 and OBSA to all those affected by this tragic loss, especially our student’s/player's immediate family. Information regarding services and arrangements will be posted on the baseball association’s website at www.oswegobsa.org.