Declan M. Bingham

Declan M. Bingham

Declan M. Bingham, age 24, passed away tragically on March 19, 2022. He was born on March 30, 1997 in Durban, South Africa, a son of Troy and Michelle Pierrus Bingham.  

He was an energetic, lovable, young "Tigger" from the start and took to soccer straight away as a 5-year-old at Virginia United Football Club.

At age 6 he moved to Australia where he quickly gained many new friends with his infectious personality and competing in nippers and soccer. As he grew into his teens, he started to excel at soccer, playing for Football Gold Coast Rep Teams. His proudest moment was when he was selected for the Football Queensland State Team alongside some of his best mates.

Declan attended high school at The Southport School where he played first team soccer from Grade 9 and was part of 3 title winning teams. It was here he began to thrive as a leader and was so incredibly proud and happy at his school, TSS. Outside of school Declan loved being on his Jet Ski with his mates and training and playing soccer at Magic United. He was so full of life and energy and he loved being with his friends, enjoying life.  

After high school Declan attended Gannon University from 2015 – 2020 on a soccer scholarship. He earned a business degree and then his MBA and was captain of the Gannon University Soccer Team. Declan made an immediate impact as a leader. He was so proud to be a Golden Knight and lived the college experience to its fullest. He was well known on campus as a compassionate, caring, loyal friend who always had time to talk and listen to people.

After graduation Declan took on a position as General Manager of Tech Excellence Online Education as he started to settle in Erie. In 2021 he became a partner in the Erie Sports Center where he was so proud to be building something for the community that would help change kids lives. He quickly became the face of the business and was recognized as a fine young man who was well mannered, respectful and always willing to help people. He also played for NPSL Soccer Club, the Erie Commodores.

The story of Declan's life is of a young man who lived life to its fullest, exploring the world and excelling in everything he did. It's a story of friendship, love, loyalty, kindness, caring, respect and resilience. He adored his family and was fiercely proud and protective of them. He lived a full lifetime in 25 years, creating a positive impact on everyone he met and he will remain in our hearts and forever young.

In addition to his parents, Troy and Michelle Bingham, he is survived by his brother, Layton Bingham; his sisters Jemma and Jade Bingham; and his girlfriend, Tara DeSanto. He is also survived by his loving extended family and many friends.

Friends are invited to call on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel at Gannon University, 520 Peach Street, Erie, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial there at 6 pm. The Mass can be viewed live online at that time at http//www.gannon.edu/livestream. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Declan Bingham Scholarship Fund, 8161 Oliver Road, Erie, PA 16509. Arrangements are being handled by the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, Erie, PA 16502.

Declan's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone in the community for their outpouring of support during this difficult time.