Craig Roh: Former University of Michigan football star succumbs to Colon Cancer at 33

NEW DELHI: Craig Roh, a former standout in college football at the University of Michigan, passed away on Monday at the age of 33 after an 18-month battle with stage 4 colon cancer, as announced by his wife, Chelsea Roh.

In a heartfelt post on social media, Chelsea Roh expressed, “God brought Craig home,” and highlighted that Craig Roh had chosen to keep his battle with cancer private, a reflection of his humble nature.






Craig Roh's diagnosis was revealed in August 2022, and a GoFundMe campaign shared by Chelsea Roh aims to raise funds to support medical expenses and her son Max's education. Despite facing stage 4 colon cancer, Craig Roh displayed resilience throughout various treatments, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and clinical trials at MD Anderson and in Honduras.

Colon cancer, particularly in young individuals, has been on the rise, with the American Cancer Society reporting it as the leading cause of cancer deaths in men under 50. The reasons for the increase in colorectal cancer cases among young people remain unclear to experts.

Craig Roh's impact extended beyond the football field. A recipient of a full scholarship, he played for the University of Michigan from 2009 to 2012, setting records for the most starts. His junior year included being part of a Sugar Bowl-winning team.


After a stint in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, Craig Roh played in the Canadian Football League for the BC Lions and later the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Post-football, he transitioned to the tech industry in Austin, Texas.

The GoFundMe campaign emphasized Craig Roh's unwavering faith and positive influence on those around him. He married Chelsea in 2016, and they welcomed their son in 2021. Described as a father, husband, brother, son, friend, and teammate, Craig Roh left a lasting impact marked by vulnerability, humility, and humor.

"It’s hard to put into words the impact that Craig has had on so many people. He was a father, a husband, a brother, a son, a friend, and a teammate," the GoFundMe page stated. "Despite all of his accomplishments, Craig always led with vulnerability, humility, and humor."

(Inputs from agencies)