Jake Roehn (Dec. 5, 1994 – July 16, 2025)
Athens, OH & Phoenix, AZ – Jake Roehn, Ohio University alumnus, former Ohio Baseball standout, and coaching educator. Jake (Class of ’18, M.S. in Recreation and Sport Sciences – Coaching Education) died unexpectedly on July 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by leadership, warmth, and exceptional athleticism.
A Record-Setting Career on the Mound ⚾
A native of Sandwich, Illinois, Jake joined Ohio University and quickly rose to prominence. Between 2016–2018, he shattered program records, finishing with 29 career saves and becoming Ohio’s all-time saves leader. In 2017, he helped the Bobcats clinch the MAC Championship and earned First Team All‑MAC honors, was a semifinalist for the Stopper of the Year Award, and recorded a sparkling 2.28 ERA over 43 innings with 48 strikeouts. By 2018, he was recognized as a Collegiate Baseball Preseason Third Team All‑American. His on-field excellence and competitive spirit made him a clutch performer in conference tournaments and an inspiration to teammates.
Beyond Athletics: Coaching, Culture, and Relationships
After graduation, Jake remained in the athletics arena. He completed a graduate assistant role at Ohio, before joining Regis University as an assistant baseball coach focusing on pitchers. His influence transcended the diamond—he cultivated a work culture rooted in high morale, genuine camaraderie, and mentorship. Colleagues recall him as having a “genuine, fun loving and sweet” demeanor, with laughter trailing his every entrance. Jake’s leadership style was inclusive and encouraging: he made every pitcher feel seen, valued, and driven to grow.
Fitting Passions—Outdoors, Baseball, and Canine Companionship
Away from academics and athletics, Jake lived adventurously. Whether he was fishing, hunting, or exploring nature, he radiated enthusiasm for life. His beloved dog Lila was his faithful hiking companion. Friends remember him as someone whose sense of adventure and love of baseball resonated in both casual moments and shared experiences.
Family First: Son, Brother, Partner
A proud son to Ron and Stephanie Roehn, and adored brother to Shannon and Amanda, Jake forged deep connections with his family. His bond with his sisters was one of quiet devotion and mutual admiration. In his fiancée, Hannah, he found a soulmate—“his person”—with whom he dreamed of a future filled with love, adventure, and shared purpose. Those closest to him recall that Jake’s presence brought joy, laughter, and belonging to gatherings both large and small.
Departed Too Soon, Remembered Always
Jake’s final game of life ended far too soon, yet his legacy reverberates through the countless lives he touched—teammates, students, colleagues, friends, and family. Ohio University’s baseball community, former coaches, and Regis baseball mourn deeply. As Coach Smith reflected, the tribute messages confirm Jake as “genuine, fun loving and sweet”. He was, above all, an exceptional human being whose impact will be felt for years to come.
Continuing the Story: In Jake’s Honor
He is survived by his parents, sisters, fiancée, extended family, and the many players and students he mentored. In the coming days, Ohio Athletics and Regis University plan to host services, remembrances, and a scholarship in his name—a tribute to his commitment to coaching education excellence and community building.
Jake’s story will continue to inspire—his leadership, heart, resilience, and dedication stand as a beacon for others in athletics, coaching education, and beyond. His life reminds us that the influence of a leader extends far beyond wins and records—it lives on in the culture, community, and relationships that are built.
