Eric Ortiz, a former cheerleader for the University of Louisville and the GymTyme All-Stars, passed away on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the age of 30. His cause of death has not been made public, but TMZ Sports reported that he “died unexpectedly” in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. His death has shocked and saddened the cheer community, as well as his family and friends.
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A Talented and Accomplished Cheerleader
Eric Ortiz was one of the most talented and accomplished cheerleaders of his generation. He started cheering at a young age and joined the University of Louisville cheerleading team, where he won several national championships. He also cheered for the GymTyme All-Stars, a prestigious program that competes at the highest level of all-star cheerleading. With GymTyme, he won 10 national championships and two world championships, making him one of the most decorated athletes in the sport.
Eric was known for his skills in stunting, tumbling, jumping, dancing, and performing. He was a leader on and off the mat, inspiring his teammates and coaches with his positivity, passion, and work ethic. He was also a charismatic and fun-loving person who could light up any room with his smile and laughter.
A Tribute from His Cheer Family
After the news of Eric’s death broke out, many people from the cheer community paid tribute to him on social media. His former team, GymTyme All-Stars, released a statement on their Instagram account, saying that Eric was “a sweet, amazing, and genuine person” who was “a light that pushed whatever darkness and worry present- away.” They also thanked him for letting them be a part of his “magnificent time here.”
Gabi Butler, a star of the Netflix docuseries Cheer and a friend of Eric’s, also expressed her condolences on her Facebook page. She wrote that her heart was “completely torn into a million pieces” and that Eric was “the most beautiful soul” she had ever met. She also shared some photos and videos of their memories together.
New Rochelle Cheerleading, another team that Eric cheered for, also posted a tribute on their Instagram account. They called Eric “a shining star” and said that there were not enough words to describe what he meant to everyone. They also said that he was a son, brother, uncle, and friend who brightened up every room he entered.
A Celebration of His Life
Eric Ortiz’s funeral service will be held on Friday, October 28, 2022, at Saint Raymond’s Cemetery in Bronx, New York. His visitation will be held on Thursday, October 27, 2022, at Sisto Funeral Home in Bronx, New York. His family has requested that anyone who attends wear red or black in honor of his cheer teams.
Eric Ortiz’s cause of death may remain unknown for now, but his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him. He was a remarkable person who touched many lives with his talent, personality, and spirit. He will be dearly missed by his cheer family and beyond.
