Mike Detjen of "Little People, Big World"
Deep Sadness
Matt Roloff writes:
"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
kai...@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 97124 We 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."