TLDR: Craig Roh, former University of Michigan football star, passed away on February 26 after an 18-month battle with Stage IV colon cancer, his wife Chelsea announced. Known for his resilience and dedication, Roh was a prominent player for the Wolverines, setting a record with 51 consecutive starts during his college career from 2009 to 2012. Roh’s dedication extended beyond the field; he focused on developing high-quality content and products through his ventures. Despite his health challenges, which included various treatments at MD Anderson and in Honduras, Roh remained private about his illness. His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from former teammates, including NFL player Taylor Lewan and coach Sherrone Moore, highlighting his impact both personally and professionally. A GoFundMe page has been established in his memory, supporting his family’s future. Roh’s legacy is remembered in the Michigan community, as a leader and a friend, survived by his wife Chelsea and their young son.

The University of Michigan community is grieving the loss of former football standout Craig Roh, who succumbed to Stage IV colon cancer on February 26, as revealed in an announcement by his wife, Chelsea Roh. The late Wolverines player had been privately enduring an 18-month battle with the disease, choosing to keep his struggles from the public eye in hopes of focusing on his craft. Despite his illness, he laid out ambitious plans for his business ventures, a testament to his unwavering dedication and resilience.

Roh, who hailed from Scottsdale, Arizona, made an immediate impact on the Wolverine football team upon joining as a highly sought-after four-star recruit. His Michigan career spanned from 2009 to 2012, during which he set a school record by starting 51 consecutive games. Roh’s versatility shone through as he played across multiple positions: outside linebacker, defensive end, and defensive tackle. His impressive college performance earned him accolades, including a BCS Sugar Bowl win and recognition as Michigan’s top defensive lineman.

After a brief stint in the NFL, Roh transitioned to the Canadian Football League, playing with the BC Lions and later with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, where he achieved a coveted Grey Cup championship. However, it was his character off the field that left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Roh’s focus was on quality over quantity, dedicating himself to creating impactful content and leading projects with purpose, even while grappling with his difficult health challenges.

Tributes have poured in from Roh’s former Michigan teammates, expressing sorrow at his passing and highlighting the profound impact he had on their lives. Taylor Lewan, a fellow Wolverine and NFL player, credits Roh with significantly influencing his career path. “Without Craig, I never would have had the chance to live the life I do,” Lewan shared. The sentiment was echoed by other Michigan alumni, including Roy Roundtree and Denard Robinson, who remembered Roh as a dedicated friend and player.

In honor of Craig’s memory, Chelsea Roh has shared a GoFundMe page to support their family, particularly their young son, as they navigate life without him. Coach Sherrone Moore also extended his condolences, acknowledging Roh’s significant contributions to the University of Michigan football program. As the Michigan family reflects on the loss of a fellow Wolverine, Craig Roh’s legacy as a leader, a teammate, and a beloved member of the community, will endure.