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Ereck Plancher Obituary

UCF redshirt freshman wide receiver Ereck Plancher died Tuesday after collapsing during a workout in preparation for the opening of the Knights' spring practice.

Plancher, a student from Naples, Fla., enrolled early at UCF last year so he could be available for spring practice. He has a cousin who plays football at the University of South Florida. In an interview with the Orlando Sentinel last month, the 5-foot-9, 169-pound wide receiver talked about how in his freshman year in 2007 he focused as much on on academics as much as he did on athletics.

"My goal was to try to get a 4.0 [GPA] in the spring so I could get off to a good start in college," he said. "I wasn't worried about playing time. I just wanted a chance to find my way around."

Plancher earned two letters in football at Lely High in Naples.

He was named a first team All-Area and All-Conference selection as a junior and senior.

He was Lely's Team Offensive MVP as a senior after rushing for 628 yards and seven touchdowns, while also catching 20 passes for 329 yards and four touchdowns in limited action. He also earned a letter in basketball and two in track and field.

At Lely High, he was a member of the High Honor Society as a junior and the National Honor Society as a senior (3.9 GPA).

Before signing with UCF, he was also recruited by Eastern Michigan, Inidana, Mississippi, UNLV and South Florida.
Published by Orlando Sentinel on Mar. 18, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Ereck Plancher

Not sure what to say?





73 Entries

Jenn Brann

November 2, 2015

Ereck,
We met shortly before you passed... I barely knew you, but I still keep tabs on your family in the news. I pray for them and think about you often. We barely knew each other, and you changed my life. I know you were an amazing person and that you are up in Heaven watching over everyone as you did while you were here.

Gone but not forgotten.

Soldier Jean41

March 19, 2009

I miss you Bro, It's been a year! I'll seen in Heaven some day!

K VAUGHN

March 13, 2009

Our prayers are with you and your family.
ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG!! God knows what's best. You did your will and you will be blessed every day for that.

Stavros giarimoustas

March 2, 2009

Ereck we really miss you man. Its almost been a year and things still arent the same. The program dedicated this season to you. It was a great year. When things got rough and we had to look deep down for that special something, you were there pushing us on. everyone was inspired by you. On all levels. We miss you man, keep looking over us. We'll will see you agian in heaven. "E.P. on 5"

Gina Plancher

September 8, 2008

dang big cuz! i aint even know they made dis for u.. it's been 6 months since you died && it's still so hard 2 believe...when someone so close to you passes away i dont think it ever feels real to you.. i miss so u much!!! here's the poem i read at your wake..

Taken Away
Funny, smart, caring that was Ereck.
Outgoing, loveable, charming that was my cousin.
Listening, loyal, honest that was him.

But just in a second, he was taken away
Oh, Ereck you left us behind
You left us with only memories and pictures
I guess they will have to do huh?
Cause now you're in Heaven, you're not suffering any more

Funny, smart, caring that was Ereck
Outgoing, loveable, charming that was my cousin
Listening, loyal, honest that was him
But just in a second, he was taken away

The Lord says he will heal the wounded,
mend the broken hearts
Oh, Lord please mend Giselle's broken soul
Please mend Noelle's broken hearts
And to Enock, please Lord help him to raise Edwin the way he raised Ereck


Funny, smart, caring that was Ereck
Outgoing, loveable, charming that was my cousin
Listening, loyal, honest that was him
But just in a second he was taken away

Stephenson Benjamin

May 29, 2008

RIP Ereck Plancher. You were a good person and a good cousin. The whole family ?'s you.

Rolandis woodland

May 25, 2008

I am a reader and i was just reading this story and it touch my heart in so many ways . i felt like i new this young man just by looking at his picture. I will contiune to pray for you guys and please do the same for me as i start my journey to college playing football. thank you .

Sharon Rashad Mom - #29 Sha'Reff Rashad

April 20, 2008

Just a word to let you know we are still praying for your family and will continue to do so. As a mom, my heart aches for you with this upcoming Mother's Day. But I know Ereck's life and the way he lived it will bring you comfort, knowing that his role now is much bigger than it ever was before. Thank you for the encouragement you have given so many people by the way you raised your son. God bless you and your family.

Natasha Gascon

April 16, 2008

Hey Egghead. Remember those days at Manatee? Man, the first day I met you in the 3rd grade you beat me for class president and I was like "Who is this kid?!!?!?!" I was so angry. And then we became friends. I'm so thankful to have taken Mrs. Murray's class 8th grade year because that's when we became close friends... Our little algebra family of 10 people. We had so much fun, so many memories together. You are the reason that I am where I am today. If I didn't have you or Amanda to CONSTANTLY compete with at Manatee, I can almost guarantee that I wouldn't have the grades that I do now. In those 9 years, you made me a better person and changed my life. I am so proud of everything you have done and I miss you alot...
Keep looking down on Noelle.

xoxox Love you Ereck.

Monika Lis

April 14, 2008

Ereck,
Its almost going to be a month since youre gone, and there are days where I can't believe that its true. I'm still waiting for the day that you text or call me to see if I know anyone that could give you a ride to or from Orlando ;-) I will never forget those days or should I say late nights where Mark and I were giving you rides back to Orlando, and poor you were in the back trying to get some sleep while the speaker was roaring in your ear and the bass was about to blow you out of my car, lol (you know Mark and his music.)
I guess what Im trying to say is that I am greatful to have known an incredible person like you, and been able to help you out in times of need. R.I.P Ereck, one day we'll all see eachother again.
<3

ERECK AND JAMES AT GRADUATION...R.I.P.

April 12, 2008

We all missin' u

April 12, 2008

An Angel has gone back to heaven (R.I.P. BRO)

April 12, 2008

Chris

April 12, 2008

Although I am just a casual reader of the Sentinel on line, I wanted to let the Plancher family know that my family is praying for you, and want to assure you that Ereck is in a better place. He seemed like an excellent young man by everything I have read

Kevin York

April 11, 2008

How could a guy with such a great heart and attiude on life be taken from us? You really opened my eyes man, life is so precious and is something we too often take for granted. We miss ya bro, R.I.P E.P.

Julie Amedio

April 11, 2008

To the Plancher Family-
Although I did not know Ereck at all I was so sad to hear about his death. I wanted to let you know that your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers. Ereck seemed liked such a wonderful person he will always live on in your hearts. RIP Ereck Plancher!

eddyson polche

April 8, 2008

ERECK
thank you for being a positive person in my life.. thank you for being one of my closest friends in high school. i'll never forget the moments we shared together man.. i miss you homie...we all are missing you.. i love you...rest in peace man...watch over us dawg

Debi Means

April 7, 2008

ereck was an exceptional human being..he inspired and encouraged his friends and teammates,his deep faith and commitment to always giving his true and honest heart to everything he did, will never be forgotten by anyone who was blessed to know him....our family joins with Ereck's family and all of those who have experienced this tremendous loss...there is comfort in knowing that he in in the loving arms of our Lord that he had a very special relaionship with..God Bless All

Cedrick Dervil

April 7, 2008

Ereck, you were a great cousin and Edwin and I would always play wrestling and football video games for you.

KIKKI FOREST

April 6, 2008

WE WILL ALWAYS MISS YOU...EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE GONE....YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.....

WE WILL ALWAYS HAVE YOU IN ARE HEARTS....

LOVE YOU WITH MY WHOLE WORLD...

Nino Gonzalez (Mr. G)

April 6, 2008

Ereck was a great student and athlete. I did not have him in class while at Manatee but he was widely known and loved. My prayers are with the family.

Jeanette Daniels

April 2, 2008

My life is forever changed. I feel like I lost a child on Tuesday March 18, 2008. I lost one of my dearest students, Ereck Plancher 19, Wide Receiver; University of Central FL, Orlando. He was the light that shined in everyone’s Life, he was the Rock that stood on a solid Christian foundation, he modeled the role, that every student and child should follow. His laughter was contagious, he smile was radiant, his intelligence, athleticism and human nature priceless. I marvel at his leadership, and service. I admire his outgoing and friendly nature. An Angel guiding his friends to the path of success. A guardian Angel to his family. God wanted you with him my dear student, to watch over us, to protect your, Family, Friends, Teachers, Coaches and those who didn’t have the pleasure and honor of crossing your path. You touched and impacted so many lives Ereck. I laugh, I cry, I celebrate the memories of you in Odyssey and Language Arts class. I still have the teddy bear you gave me the last day of school before you entered high school, It's addressed:
TO: Ms. Daniels
FROM: ERECK P, your favorite student.
May you Rest in God’s Grace and Peace forever
Love Always, Ms. Daniels

Michael Waldren

March 30, 2008

It's quite the tragedy when such an event like this one occurs. Everything is going perfectly in rhythm, but then when you least expect it, tragedy strikes in the most unlikely location. My condolences go out to Ereck's family and I hope his family and the Lely/UCF community can move on just as strong, if not stronger, as they were before this unfortunate event. Cheers.

China Pierrelus

March 29, 2008

Man........ I can't bring myself to believing your really gone. Its like you were just here and now your physical body is no longer here. Even though your no longer here physcially, I always remember the verse from Pslam 116:15 "Percious in the sight of the Lord [is] the death of his saints." You'll be truly missed, much love.

Gana Joseph

March 27, 2008

An angel in disguise is NOW an angel in the skies!
i still cant believe it my lil bro' is gone but wat i can say God took his ANGEL back.... it hasn't hit me yet i'm still prayin that i wake up from this horrible nightmare cuz i remember clownin with ya after da usf vs. ucf game, you promised me that u were gone play dis year and how different it would be lol Wow!!!
.....my heart goes out 2 ur parents, edwin, ur aunts/uncles, cousins, ur grandma, eli, nixon, noelle & everybody else may God give them comfort and peace.....we know ur n a better place we love u so very very much and we miss u.......u will ALWAYS be in our hearts W.I.P.(Worship In Paradise)

"The DREAM SON" We love you!!

March 26, 2008

Ereck Plancher. (The Greatest)

March 26, 2008

An angel in disguise is NOW an angel in the skies!

Medgine Hyppolite

March 26, 2008

Ereck was the BEST!! He was an over achiever. He was great on the field and off. He never raised his voice at anyone. Naples will never recover from this loss. I LOVE you Ereck!! God Bless your family and all ours friends who have you in their hearts. Thank you for being you Ereck...


Live life to the fullest, Tomorrow is not Promised.

ERNESTINE

March 26, 2008

MY HEART FELT SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY OF ERECK AND UCF. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU

Shannon Goldstein

March 24, 2008

Hey Ereck Plancher,
Im so happy to be able to say that i actually had a class with you last year before you left. Web design was fun with you especially when you would steal my food and bookbag...:)... I remember watching you play football every friday night at lely.... Im still shock about what happen.. You where an amazing kid and i know for a fact alot of people looked up to you because i know i did... R.I.P Ereck Plancher we will miss you...

Shauna Gentry

March 24, 2008

To The Plancher Family, May God Bless you in your time of need our deepest sympahty and prayers go out to your family.

Heather

March 23, 2008

Hey Ereck. So proud to say I was one of your cheerleaders every Friday night. Memories of being your powderpuff coach & all those late nights decorating the varisty locker room, will stay with me forever. Read my yearbook the other night... so glad I could make you laugh during Valdo's class junior year. I am so grateful I had the pleasure of knowing you; you touched so many lives. Rest in Peace my friend <3

Cherie Solimini

March 23, 2008

what to say, what to say. Ereck; you were an awesome person. When I first came to Manatee, I didn't know many people, but you'd always try to make me laugh and even when I needed help with math, u never lost patience with me. In Lely, I didn't have class with you but you always stopped to check in with me. I remember when I said my mom was dying, u said "God has a reason, god has a purpose, and he is with all of us" I believe that now you are with him, and you were such a great person that I know you are in his arms forever. we gonna miss you

A J Brown

March 23, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008


***************************

I did not know Ereck personally, but what I've read about him tells me he was an amazing young man with an amazing family.
May the Lord bless your family with comfort and love. My prayers are with you.

Sheila Strenkert

March 23, 2008

Giselle, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May your faith sustain you in the days ahead. Treasure the many fine memories Ereck has left you.

Guethlie Denizard

March 22, 2008

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

BEATRICE OLDEN

March 22, 2008

TO THE PLANCHER FAMILY
MAY GOD'S LOVE SUSTAIN YOU AT THIS TIME.
BEA OLDEN.[#24.kevin smith's grandmom] NEW CASTLE,DELAWARE

Christen Bonyfield

March 21, 2008

I still think abt u jiving me cus im a model now. I feel like this is just a rumor and wen i call u cus im in orlando ur gonna answer. n i kno when ever i go to orlando again it wont b the same cus i we useto give each other the run around the whole day but by the end of it we would always see each other eventually! RIP....
(tooo much to b said in such limited amount of space

Sheldon Waugh

March 21, 2008

I knew you man....and its really sad to see ya go....God Bless man and I salute you

Harrison Martinez

March 21, 2008

ereck u were my teamate all through high school and one of my great friends and ima miss you brah jus remember we love you and we goin to FUN BOYS 4 LIFE ...WE ALL WE GOT

Vikingson Dalien

March 21, 2008

Man I will never forget the first time I met you three years ago you stayed very humble, and was always a hard worker, and you was always a good friend, it feels like it was just yesterday you asked me how was college and me telling to you its fun but it all depends on you work ethic man imma miss you hope to see you in Heaven one day.

idella brown

March 20, 2008

Ereck you now have Angels watching over you.

Laurel Alcenat

March 19, 2008

Hey Ereck
I know that we don't know each other, but we will greatly miss you, and you will forever be in our hearts. We love you and Miss you!!!!!!!!!

#24 Kevin Smith's Mom

March 19, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of grief. Ereck will be missed by us and all who knew him. Bless you all.

The Russell Family

March 19, 2008

PRECIOUS LORD, MAY YOU FOREVER BLESS THE PLANCHER FAMILY ..... KEEP THEM IN YOUR GRACE ETERNALLY ..... ALLOW US TO MEET ERECK WHEN YOU CALL OUR NAME

Rochelle Parchment

March 19, 2008

Ereck,
I never thought that I'd see this day. The day when I'd be saying good-bye. I'm still in complete shock. You were so amazing. You were a son, a brother, a cousin, a boyfriend, and a friend to many. You were a friend to me. I know that you'd do it big if you were still here. You're very intelligent and you're a great athlete. I just remember when you came to the USF vs UCF game. That night was so great and so fun. And all ten of us watching a movie on a twelve inch tv. that was so funny. And my memories extend back to clowning around at Manor Care. I really did admire you. You were an amazing individual. Ereck your beauty and kind heart extended from your heart to the surface of your skin. I still can't believe that you're gone. I never got a chance to really tell you all of this. And i'm sorry for that. I love you Ereck. And I'm sure that God has extended his arms to you and welcomed you into his pearly gates. Good-bye Ereck "Planch-face" (what i used to call you) Plancher. I will not forget you.

Liz and Ereck; Before Grad Bash 2007

Elizabeth St Marc

March 19, 2008

Ereck, the many short memories I had with you will be cherished. You were a people's person and I'm glad I got the opportunity to call you a friend, classmate, and now angel.
With Love.

This is me I LOVE YOU ERECK WITH ALL MY HEART YOU WERE LIKE A BROTHER TO ME YOU WILL BE MISSED

Matthew Costello

March 19, 2008

Means alot to the Lely High Football Team. He came a long way from barely playing when he was a freshman to starting Varsity Running Back as a Junior. He inspired alot of people not only his teammates I knew him since I was in elementry school we road the same bus played football together great person.

Janice Strobach

March 19, 2008

To Ereck's parents I have been praying for you and your family since I heard the news yesterday. I am the mother of Kyle Israel who just played his last season for UCF Football. I can't imagine loosing Kyle or my son Austin. Kyle shared his sadness with me yesterday and said the he had spent some time with Ereck and that he was a very gifted and special young man and that he was what any parent would want their son to be. God will be with you during this time. From my family to yours our heartfelt sympathies.

Michael Graczyk

March 19, 2008

Ereck, EP, You were the best man nothin but class everyday. Im really gonna miss ya

Getta C

March 19, 2008

To a cousin that could spell success by everything that he did. Sweet and driven! Ereck we love you soooo much and you will be missed ALOT!

CATHY SANDERS

March 19, 2008

GOD WANTED ANOTHER ANGEL!

MY HEARTFELT SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO YOUR FAMILY AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME.

JoAnne Furlow

March 19, 2008

To the Plancher Family:
I did not know your son on a personal level, but Mom, just be PROUD OUT LOUD; what a LEGACY your son lived and will leave behind. He seemed to be such a well rounded young man, something you rarely see these days. Please find comfort in the Lord and He will continue to bless your life with wonderful memories of your son that will live on. Be blessed during this difficult time. You did an Awesome job of raising a fine young man!

James M

March 19, 2008

dang brah, you will be missed...we are in such mourning down here in Lely High School...it's still not clicking to my head that you're gone when we were just chillen together down here on saturday. But i can't be mad at you or God because it was your time...God wanted his Angel home R.I.P.

Jake

March 19, 2008

We miss him dearly. He was among the greatest of friends and a young man who deserves only the best.

Barbery & Todd Families

March 19, 2008

Our prayers and thoughts to the Plancher family. Our heart is broken for you. May God grant you the strength and peace you deserve.

Edlin Regis

March 19, 2008

It is tragic that such a bright young life was brought to an early close. I met him only 11 Days ago at his grandma 80th birthday. he was the most polite young man I ever met. I'm Glad That I Get to Meet You.

Our Deepest Condolences.

Jason Catlette

March 19, 2008

Rest In Peace Ereck. My prayers go out to your family.

Gwen Range

March 19, 2008

To the family of Ereck: I did not know him personally, but from reading about him what a wonderful young man you raised. Please have no regrets because you raised him in believing in the Lord and and what better peace of mind than knowing he is now resting in the arms of Jesus. I will keep you and your family in my prayers and to Ereck's little brother hold fast to everything that Ereck taught you and live to make him proud of you. God bless.

Edward Johnson

March 19, 2008

Happy moments,praise God
Difficult moments,seek God
Quiet moments,worship God
Painful moments,trust God.
My prayers are with you.

Betty Jean

March 19, 2008

I didn't know Ereck, but I know his family, specially his uncle Calvin, one of my Pastor at Eben-Ezer baptist Church in Orlando,a respecful christian family. My heart goes out to the family, the church and the UCF team. It's a very sad situation. May God bless you all. Remember, God is in control, always.

Gemayel (J.J.) Mareus

March 19, 2008

God called him up to be an angel...
We Love You Ereck P. You are in our Hearts

Edy Berthelon Macdonald

March 19, 2008

Ereck has been my student this semester.
Indeed he was a fine young man and an excellent student. His loss is devastating.
My sincere condolences to his family.
Edy Macdonald
History Dept UCF

JOANN TURNER

March 18, 2008

Remember

Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.

By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation

Alice Hoskins

March 18, 2008

My prayers are with the family. I don't know what it is like to loose a son but I do know that God heals ALL. I know that my God is a comforter and he will comfort you. Take your burdens to the Lord and lean on him.

Cathy Henderson

March 18, 2008

My heart goes out to the family in the loss of their precious son. I lost my daughter and husband within two
years on the same day of the same month of the year only two years apart. There is only one way to get through it and that is to hold on to God and your faith. I don't know the family but may God give you the help and comfort you will need May God bless

M. Gutierrez and family

March 18, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Plancher's family. RIP Ereck, you are now playing for gods team.

Thomas Balkcom

March 18, 2008

My prayers and condolences go out to the Plancher and UCF families in this trying time. "When God wants to make a bouquet the loveliest flowers are always chosen."

Walter & Valerie Hawkins

March 18, 2008

Our prayers are with the Plancher family and friends.

God Bless.

Laurie Knepper

March 18, 2008

My sincerest sympathy to Ereck's family, friends, teammates and coaches. It's a very sad day for all of the UCF family, and I cannot even imagine how hard this loss must be for his family and those close to him. May God bless you all and help you through this very difficult time.

Beverly Newsome

March 18, 2008

My deepest heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Ereck--remember to hold to GOD for strength to get through this tragic loss.His life and memories can never be taken from your hearts! His Spirit Lives throughout Eternity! My Prayers are with you!!GOD BLESS!!

UCF Softball Team

March 18, 2008

Our heart and prayers go out to Ereck's family and friends. UCF will miss such a wonderful student-athlete.

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