In Memory of Mike Detjen
Kevin June 5th, 2008
The Roloffs sent out a letter today informing their fans and loved ones that their good friend Mike Detjen has passed away due to complications with a torn aorta. You can read the full letter below.
As you all know, Mike was a close friend of the Roloffs. At times on the show, he seemed more like a family member than a friend. We would all be lucky to have a friend as good as Mike was. He will be missed be greatly by both his fans and his loved ones. God be with you and your family till we meet again Mike.
Friends,
Yesterday afternoon, as I finished up the summer newsletter and set it to be sent out this morning, I had no idea I would be announcing such tragic news several hours later.
It is with the deepest sadness and devastation that we must inform our friends and fans of the passing of our extended family member, Mike Detjen.
For the past eight years Mike has been a business partner, brother, coach, friend, and confidant. He was truly like an uncle to our kids.
It was with complete and sudden surprise last evening when Mike was rushed to the hospital from his soccer club board meeting. At the time, it was believed he was having a heart attack.
Amy and all our kids rushed to the hospital to be by his side. Coherent and alert, Mike was rushed into emergency surgery for a torn aorta.
An aortic dissection is very serious, but the prognosis was that they would be able to repair the rupture in the 5+ hour operation.
Unfortunately, Mike did not make it through the procedure.
Mike passed with many loved ones and friends that cared deeply for him. We especially extend our condolences to Mike’s family. Our kids are all devastated and beside themselves with grief. We will miss Mike dearly as a friend and loved one.
We celebrate Mike’s life as one of compassion and service to those he cared about. He was the driving force behind the area soccer club. He dedicated countless hours and his personal resources to his love of soccer and the local kids that enjoyed it. Mike not only taught my kids to play but how to love the game and practice good sportsmanship as well.
Mike was a deeply faithful man, and though we mourn his loss, we take solace in the knowledge that he has gone to his heavenly home.
Condolences may be sent to kaitlin@mattroloff.com. We will be gathering the responses to give to Mike’s sons, Tim and Jason Detjen. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the organization Mike was the most passionate about, the Hillsboro Soccer Club.
Hillsboro Soccer Club
2074 NW Alocleck Dr., Suite 415
Hillsboro, OR 97124We are in the process of setting up a donation fund through PayPal. You should be able to give online through our website in the next couple of days.
Thank you for sharing our grief and sorrow in this time of earthly heartache.
Sincerely,
Matt, Amy, Zach, Jeremy, Molly, and Jacob