Naples plans beach memorial for former QB after tragic death

NAPLES, Fla. - A community is mourning the loss of 23-year-old Dominiq Ponder, a former Naples High School quarterback, who tragically died in a car crash in Boulder, Colorado.

Ponder, who was a member of the Colorado football team, left a lasting impact on everyone he met from Pennsylvania to Naples to Miami and Colorado.

His parents, Katrina and Wendell, find comfort in the love and support they've received. "He lived at least 5015 lifetimes in 23 years," they said.

Their phones have been flooded with messages from teammates, classmates and even strangers. One student from Colorado shared how Ponder's presence helped him through a difficult time.

Ponder was known for his bright smile and infectious personality. "He was our six-foot-five goofball," his parents said.

Rick Martin, head coach at Naples High, remembers Ponder's unique presence. "You just kind of gravitated to him," Martin said.

This year was supposed to be Ponder's breakout season at Colorado. "This is my year," he had told his parents.

His funeral will be held in Boulder and live-streamed for those who loved him, including in Southwest Florida. A memorial is also being planned in Naples, possibly at sunset on the beach, one of his favorite places.

Friends have created a GoFundMe for funeral costs. His family wants him to know they are proud and his legacy will not be forgotten.