The lives of our family, friends, and circle changed January 26th, 2025. A tragedy to all who knew Eric. Yet, it was exactly those who knew him—friends, family, teammates, and players— who rallied together in the face of such loss.

Amidst the gatherings and warm meals filled with conversation, memories, and remembrance was the realization of the need to keep them going. Knowing while not there physically, certainly Eric would be there in spirit.

Nine months later, October 25, 2025, marked the first annual Eric Lange Memorial Sporting Clay Shoot. Teams and individuals complete the 15-station sporting clay course in friendly competition in the name of Eric. At conclusion of the competition, a banquet like lunch is held with basket and 50/50 raffles, silent auction, and drawing of presold raffle tickets.

All proceeds raised from the event going toward the Eric Lange Memorial Fund established for local programs of which Eric aligned and believed in. A way to honor Eric, remember his legacy, and give back to the communities, sports, and things he loved.

The Eric Lange Memorial Fund was established to honor Eric’s Legacy by providing financial assistance, hope, and support to individuals and families facing life’s unexpected hardships. Through the generosity of our donors and community partners, we strive to ease financial burdens, strengthen our local community, and carry on Eric’s spirit of compassion, kindness, and service while aligning to what he loved most in life. Specifically, his love of the outdoors and football.

Today, too many young people are facing challenges which extend beyond the playing field or tree stand. Athletic participation has faced significant declines, and screen time increasingly consumes daily life — 8.5 hours a day for U.S. Teens. Opportunities to build resilience, discipline, and confidence through experience in athletics or the outdoors are becoming hard to find.

The Eric Lange Memorial Fund believes in investing in the next generation by encouraging healthy lifestyles, strong character, service to others, and the value of hard work. Through financial assistance, community partnerships, and youth focused initiatives, we strive to create opportunities that help young people step away from screens or the comfort of their homes and embrace meaningful challenges— influencing the discovery of confidence through perseverance and purpose.

The Eric Lange Memorial Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. Every contribution directly supports the Fund’s charitable mission and the individuals and families it serves.