HILLCREST, NY – A fire broke out in a house in Hillcrest early on Saturday, January 11th. The fire would tragically take the life of beloved Spring Valley High School security guard and soccer coach Venel Edouardo.

On Sunday January 12 there will be a vigil held for Venel on the field at Spring Valley High School starting at 1pm.

Tributes have been pouring in for Venel –

Statement of East Ramapo Central School District Superintendent Dr. Deborah Wortham:

“Our East Ramapo Central School District family is in mourning with the news of the death of Venel Eduoard, a beloved member of the Spring Valley High School security force and Junior Varsity soccer coach.

Well-respected by students and staff members alike, Mr. Eduoard worked tirelessly to support and safeguard our school community for nearly two decades. After the bell rang, “Coach Venel” continued to serve our district as a teacher and mentor to countless student athletes.

Mr. Eduoard’s enduring enthusiasm for coaching and his commitment to student safety will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

In honor of Mr. Eduoard, grief counseling will be provided at Spring Valley High School today, Sunday, January 12, 2020, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Spring Valley High School Football Coach Andrew Delva

Sad day in Spring Valley as we lost a good man, good Soccer coach, mostly great person who was loved by everyone at SVHS. RIP to Venel. Not gonna be the same without you. 🙏🏿 prayers to the family pic.twitter.com/wtC9kEEBCm

— Andrew Delva (@damann44) January 11, 2020

Rockland County Executive Ed Day

Legislator Laurie Santulli

Please join us🧡🖤 pic.twitter.com/8dOF649iZZ

— Laurie Santulli (@LaurieSantulli) January 12, 2020

Words can not express the loss of such a caring friend, soccer coach n role model. Just recently printed his letter to apply for the position of Head Coach of SV Fútbol.
Thurs. Vanel, Mr. Leonard and I were laughing hysterically remembering when they played 1 on 1 V could play D pic.twitter.com/PTJeLJ81Yd

— Semper Paratus (@TigersnTitans) January 11, 2020