Editor’s note: See obituary.
OCEAN VIEW — The community is grieving following the death Sept. 12 of a 9-year-old Upper Township boy in a crash outside the youth football complex in Vineland.
According to published reports, the boy, Easton William Beisler, was a passenger in his mother’s SUV that collided with a motorcycle at about 5:53 p.m.
The motorcyclist, identified as 31-year-old Addiel Ortiz of Millville, also died in the crash. He was coach of the Vineland Blitz, which hosted the Upper Township Indians in a scrimmage that evening.
The boy’s mother, identified in his obituary is Lauren Beisler, was driving the SUV that collided with motorcycle, according to reports. Other survivors include his father, Scott Beisler, and brother Ryan Beisler.
“Our organization and community is grieving the loss of Easton Beisler #23, a bright and talented peewee player who touched the hearts of everyone around him. It is with deep sadness that we announce the cancellation of all Upper Township games this weekend,” read a statement on the GoFundMe page, which had collected nearly $118,000 by Monday afternoon. “In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. We believe that coming together to support one another and honor his memory is the most important thing we can do right now.
“We ask everyone to hold their loved ones close and cherish the moments we have. Let’s remember #23 for the joy he brought to the field and impact he made on all of us. Rest in peace, #23. You will always be an Indian and be in our hearts.”
Easton was born in Somers Point and lived in Egg Harbor Township until he was 2 years old, when the family moved to Upper Township.
“Easton was a bright light both in his family and his community. He was a kindhearted, energetic, smart, athletic, sweet soul who cared for everyone around him,” his obituary states. “He made our family proud each and every day. His contagious smile and laughter would radiate through our home. His positive attitude motivated our family to live each day to our fullest. The love that Easton had for our family was like no other — he completed us as a family of four.”
He loved playing football, baseball, soccer, basketball and golf.
“Easton was an amazing person who brought such happiness, love, laughter, pride and honor to his family, friends and community. He will be loved forever and deeply missed. #forevernumber23,” according to the obituary.
The community has come together to support the family. In addition to the GoFundMe page, there was a moment of silence for the family Friday night during the Ocean City High School football game and a candlelight vigil was held Sunday evening at Caldwell Park.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff