South Whitley, IN — January 16, 2025 — The community of South Whitley, Indiana, is reeling in shock and heartbreak after the untimely death of beloved baseball umpire and local figure, Ryder Sroufe. The 24-year-old tragically passed away following a tragic accident in Michigan on January 15, 2025, sending waves of grief through his hometown and beyond. As details surrounding the accident remain unclear, the loss of such a vibrant and deeply committed individual has left a gaping void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Sroufe’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from all corners of the community, including the South Whitley Youth League (SWYL), where Ryder had become a fixture of dedication and mentorship. Known for his passion for baseball, his generosity of spirit, and his love for motorsports, Ryder touched the lives of countless individuals during his short but impactful life.

A Community in Mourning

Ryder’s passing has reverberated deeply within the tight-knit community of South Whitley, a small town with a population of just under 2,000. The loss of Ryder has left a profound emotional impact on family, friends, and fellow community members, many of whom had known him since childhood. Those who interacted with him both personally and professionally have been shaken to their core by the unexpected tragedy.

The South Whitley Youth League, where Ryder dedicated many nights umpiring baseball and softball games, expressed their sorrow on their official Facebook page. In a moving tribute, they wrote:

“We send our condolences and prayers for peace and comfort to Ryder’s friends and family. He was a loyal and dedicated member of the SWYL family, spending countless nights umpiring baseball and softball games. Ryder was a mentor to younger umpires and treated everyone with kindness. He will be greatly missed.”

Ryder’s commitment to youth sports was unwavering, and his role as a mentor to young athletes and officials was something he took great pride in. He was more than just an umpire; he was a figure of support and guidance for those in the league. His dedication to fostering a positive and fair environment for children to learn and grow left an indelible mark on the SWYL community.

In addition to his umpiring, Ryder’s work at the local Faztek Industrial Solutions plant, where he had been employed since 2018, had earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. His reliability, strong work ethic, and willingness to go above and beyond in his job made him a valued member of the team. Whether it was in the factory or on the field, Ryder’s commitment to doing his best was evident in everything he did.

Ryder’s death has left a deep void in the lives of his coworkers, who remembered him as someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand, share a laugh, and make others feel valued. His colleagues were also quick to highlight his humility and the genuine care he showed for others.

A Grieving Family

Ryder’s family is, naturally, devastated by his passing. His father, Craig Sroufe, expressed his profound sadness and love for his son through an emotional statement:

“I love you more than words can express, and I will miss you so much. RIP, my son. I’m beyond heartbroken.”

Ryder’s family had always been incredibly close-knit, and this tragedy has left them grappling with the sudden and inexplicable loss of a son, a brother, and a friend. Craig Sroufe’s tribute is a heartbreaking reflection of the love and bond shared between father and son. The pain of losing Ryder at such a young age has been compounded by the fact that his family had been looking forward to celebrating many future milestones with him, including his upcoming wedding.

Ryder had been engaged to his long-time girlfriend, Kacie Colby, since December 2022. Their engagement had been a source of immense joy for the couple, and they had been planning their future together. Kacie, who has been an integral part of Ryder’s life, shared her grief on social media, writing:

“I can’t believe you’re gone. You were everything to me, and I will miss you more than words can express. I will carry you in my heart always, my love.”

The couple’s shared dreams, their plans for a wedding, and their hopes for a future together have all been tragically cut short. Kacie’s heartfelt tribute is just one of many expressions of grief from those who knew Ryder best.

Motorsports Enthusiast with a Need for Speed

One of the defining characteristics of Ryder Sroufe was his love for motorsports. Whether it was dirt track racing, demolition derbies, or simply enjoying a day at the track, Ryder had an undeniable passion for all things automotive. His love for cars and racing was well-known in the community, and he was often seen at local events, cheering on his favorite drivers or getting involved in his own competitions.

Close friends have fondly remembered Ryder’s enthusiasm for motorsports, recalling how he always had a smile on his face when talking about the latest race or upcoming event. One of Ryder’s closest friends shared a touching message following the news of his death:

“Fly high, Ryder! You will be missed by so many. You can have unlimited demo derbies and show them how it’s done!”

This sentiment captures the spirit of Ryder’s adventurous and fun-loving personality. His love for motorsports was more than just a hobby; it was a way for him to connect with others and share his passion for speed and competition. It’s no surprise that so many who knew him will remember his larger-than-life personality, always eager to share his love for racing with those around him.

A Life Cut Short, but Not Forgotten

While the circumstances of Ryder’s death remain under investigation, the one thing that is abundantly clear is that his life, though short, was rich with love, kindness, and dedication. His influence on the South Whitley Youth League, his coworkers at Faztek Industrial Solutions, and the local motorsports community is undeniable.

Friends and family members alike have shared their thoughts and tributes, highlighting how Ryder was a person who always tried to make the world around him a better place. Whether it was through his work as a baseball umpire, his dedication to helping others, or his unwavering support of his friends and loved ones, Ryder’s positive impact will live on long after his passing.

In the coming days, many in the South Whitley community are expected to gather together to honor Ryder’s memory. A memorial service will be held in his honor, with many expected to pay tribute to the young man whose life was tragically taken too soon. The South Whitley Youth League has announced plans for a memorial fundraiser in Ryder’s name to ensure that his legacy continues to make a difference in the lives of future generations of young athletes.

The Impact of Ryder Sroufe’s Legacy

As news of Ryder’s death continues to spread, it is clear that his impact reached far beyond his small Indiana town. His warm, compassionate nature and tireless dedication to the community made him a beloved figure whose memory will live on for years to come.

Ryder’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness, generosity, and living each day with purpose. His devotion to his work, his family, and his friends exemplifies the kind of person he was: someone who gave selflessly and always sought to uplift others. While his loss is deeply felt, those who knew Ryder will continue to honor his memory by carrying forward the values he embodied.

As South Whitley comes to terms with this tragic loss, the community will undoubtedly rally together to support Ryder’s family, friends, and loved ones. Although Ryder is no longer physically with us, his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched in his short 24 years.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Love, Dedication, and Service

Ryder Sroufe’s death is a tragic reminder of how fleeting life can be. In the blink of an eye, someone who was full of potential, love, and promise can be taken from us. Yet, as the people who knew him best continue to mourn his passing, they also reflect on the many ways he enriched their lives. Ryder’s memory will forever be a part of the South Whitley community, a shining example of the power of kindness, community service, and the joy of pursuing one’s passions.

As we remember Ryder, we do so with gratitude for the time he spent with us, and we honor his legacy by continuing to live with the same warmth, dedication, and love that he shared with everyone around him. His story is one of triumph, loss, and the enduring power of a life well-lived.