Ex-Michigan college football star Craig Roh dead at 33 after secret battle with colon cancer: Wife and ex-teammates pay tribute to ‘life-changing’ father

Roh, a former defensive end for the current national champions, was secretly battling colon cancer for the last 18 months, his wife revealed on social media.

In a statement to his fans, she wrote: ‘This is Craig’s wife. I wanted to let all of his followers know that after an 18-month battle with Stage IV colon cancer, God brought Craig home on Monday, February 26th.

‘Craig was not very public with his battle, as he truly just wanted to focus on bringing the best content and building the best products he could.

‘He laid out a timeline for his business so stay tuned. Many have asked how they can help, I’ve attached our GoFundMe to this post.

He laid out a timeline for his business so stay tuned. Many have asked how they can help, I’ve attached our GoFundMe to this post.’

Roh is survived by his wife Chelsea and two-year-old son Max.

Roh still holds the record for the most consecutive games played by a Michigan Wolverine

Over $115,000 had already been raised as of Thursday morning, with a series of huge donations being put forward by his heartbroken friends, family and fans.

Across social media, tributes were also being made by former teammates and big names at Michigan, with current head coach Sherrone Moore tweeting: ‘I am saddened to hear about the passing of former defensive end Craig Roh, our program’s all-time leader in career starts.

‘My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time. The entire Roh family is in my thoughts and prayers and we hope for peace and comfort for all who knew this great Wolverine.’

Roh was teammates at high school and college with former NFL star Taylor Lewan, and he was quickly on social media to give a heartfelt message about his friend.

Without Craig I never have the opportunity to live the life I do now,’ he wrote. ‘I would never have made it to college, never go to the NFL, and would never be sitting in the position I am today. So Craig Roh really and truly did change my life for the better.

‘I’m heartbroken for his wife Chelsea and their young son who now has to grow up without his father. Anyone who knew Craig at his core he was a good person who always tried his best regardless of the circumstances.’

Roh started out as a four-star recruit at Chaparral High School in Arizona, where he went on to be named Player of the Year, before committing to Michigan in 2008.