The Johnstown community is coming together for a fallen umpire who helped lead the Greater Johnstown Youth League.

For family and friends, it's a chance to celebrate his memory in doing what he loved.

"To lose somebody that early, really impacted a lot (of people), and this is the least we could do to show and celebrate our friend's life," Alex Leiato said.

Friends describe him as outgoing and enthusiastic; A fierce competitor. His sister said they knew he was special, but didn't realize everyone else did too.

"You just walked down the street, and he was a real class guy. He did a lot for the community. He did a lot for Greater Johnstown Youth little League," Leiato said.

Richie Thomas was the head umpire for the GJYL and friends said he made an impact on nearly every kid that stepped up to the plate.

"He was always involved in the sport. He loved the sport," Leiato explained.

Thomas died from heart-related issues at the end of June. He was only 37.

Thomas' biggest fans are coming together to play in a softball tournament to honor the memory he left behind.

Friends and family told 6News, it's not just about the impact he had behind the plate, it's also the impact he had on the community, as a whole.

"It really makes you a better person to meet real, honest people. Day-in and day-out, he was the same person and you really appreciate that when somebody, quality like that, you don't want to let that go," Leiato said.

The co-ed scramble style tournament is set up for the weekend of September 8, 2012 at Brownstown field in Johnstown.

All proceeds benefit Brownstown Recreation and a charity chosen by the Thomas family.

"It's really just to bring the community together and have everybody involved, meet people you haven't met before, and that's what Richie would want," Leiato said.

The cost per individual is $20. Interested players must be registered by August 17th to qualify for the draft on August 18th.

If you have any questions or may be interested in playing, call Alex Leiato at 814-421-7236.