Emmerich Burdeshaw Obituary, Green Middle School Wrestling Team Member and Beloved Son, Brother, and Friend, Passes Away Tragically at 14
The community of Green, Ohio, is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of Emmerich Burdeshaw, a 14-year-old student and athlete at Green Middle School. Emmerich passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, June 10, 2025, leaving behind a heartbroken family, classmates, and community. His family describes him as a bright and energetic young man whose warm smile and generous spirit touched everyone he met ¹.
*A Bright and Energetic Young Man*
Born on March 12, 2011, Emmerich was the first child of proud parents who quickly recognized his boundless curiosity and athleticism. From the earliest days of preschool, he seemed to approach every activity with the same joyful enthusiasm. Whether mastering his ABC’s or racing a tricycle down the driveway, Emmerich’s drive to learn and explore was evident—and contagious. As he grew older, Emmerich emerged as a standout athlete at Green Middle School, participating in multiple sports, including soccer, football, and wrestling ¹ ².
*A Standout Athlete and Compassionate Classmate*
Emmerich’s coach, Mr. David Carter, recalls, “Emmerich was the first to congratulate an opponent after a match and the first to rally his own teammates when the chips were down. He reminded us all why we play sports—not just to win, but to grow.” Teachers and friends alike described Emmerich as a compassionate classmate, quick to offer a helping hand or a friendly ear. Mrs. Reynolds, his eighth-grade language arts teacher, noted, “Emmerich had an infectious laugh and a genuine interest in others. He would stay after school to help a friend understand an assignment, and his book recommendations were some of the best in class.” ¹ ³
*Cultural Heritage and Community Involvement*
Emmerich’s passions extended into his cultural heritage. As an active member of the German Family Society of Green County, he eagerly attended weekly German dance rehearsals alongside dancers three times his age, delighting audiences at every community event. He cherished the camaraderie of the Society and was especially proud to participate in last year’s festival parade, where he performed the Schuhplattler alongside his dance partners ¹ ³.
*A Love for Photography and the Outdoors*
Emmerich’s curiosity also extended to photography; he could often be found capturing candid shots of teammates celebrating victories or taking portraits of friends beneath the oak trees that dot the school grounds. Outside school and extracurriculars, Emmerich loved exploring the outdoors—hiking in Richland B&O Trail with his younger sister, camping by the Cuyahoga River, and spotting wildlife through the lens of his first digital camera ¹.
*Celebrating Emmerich’s Life*
Emmerich is survived by his parents; his younger sister; grandparents; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and a host of teammates and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. His family invites all who knew Emmerich to join them for a public visitation on Friday, June 13, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Green Memorial Funeral Home, followed by a celebration of life service at 7:30 p.m. A private burial will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery ¹.
*Honoring Emmerich’s Memory*
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ohio Youth Sports Foundation in Emmerich’s name, to support underprivileged children in pursuing athletic opportunities. Though Emmerich’s time with us was far too brief, his kindness, zest for life, and unwavering loyalty to friends and family created a legacy that will endure.
In the words of his wrestling captain, “Emmerich taught us how to live fully, to overcome challenges with grace, and to lift others up with a smile.” May we all honor his memory by embracing life as he did—boldly, compassionately, and with endless enthusiasm ¹.
