Under a brilliant sky and gentle breeze, and amid tears, smiles and laughter, the Eldred School District community came together to honor two valuable members who left us much too soon. 

Chris Gonzalez, a long-time coach and Josh Glantz, a member of the high school faculty, both passed away earlier this year. Their years of service to the Eldred community will be long remembered as they were honored by the planting of trees and the placement of memorial plaques on May 25 at the Eldred Junior-Senior High School. 

The weeping cherry trees and memorial stones are on either side of a bench where friends can pause to reflect. 

Superintendent John Morgano acted as master of ceremonies for the event. Following remarks by principal Traci Ferreira and athletic director J.J. Gass, Joshua Santoro, a parent, community member and coach spoke extemporaneously about the relationship he, his sons and his family had with both men. He said that Mr. Glantz would be remembered for his smile, his energy and his spirit and for being a part of his sons’ lives even after they graduated. Likewise, Coach Gonzalez’s spirit, will and “just do it” mindset would remain in the minds of all who knew him. Concluding his impromptu remarks, he said, “When you lose someone that special, you lose a bit of yourself. Honor them by being the best you that you can be.”

The plaques read: “Beloved teacher 1994-2022 Joshua David Glantz—An outstanding professional who dedicated his life to the students of Eldred,” and “Beloved coach Christopher Charles Gonzalez—An outstanding coach who was dedicated to the success of Eldred athletics.” 

Close to a hundred family, friends, colleagues, students and community members were in attendance. 

The benediction to the brief ceremony was a bagpiper’s somber rendition of “Amazing Grace.” After the event, many students lingered at the memorial stones to reflect on the impact these two gentlemen had on their lives.