Above all else, Dennis Rohde was a family man. His professional success only gave him the opportunity to make life better for those he loved. His family and his friends have turned his legacy into a fight against cancer, the disease that took him from them in the prime of his life. The First Annual Dennis Rohde Golf Tournament at the Sugar Creek Club in High Ridge, MO raised more than $9,000 for Kanzius Cancer Research and the family is not stopping there: "Thank you for the kind words, and the venue by which to share our father’s story. We are proud to tell the tale, and the ability to share it with other cancer victims is the least we can do. The ability to provide the financial support we have in the past, and are planning to continue in the future, was made possible by the entire family and obviously all of the volunteers that worked hard in putting together the golf tournament. We look forward to hosting the next tournament coming up in the Spring of 2010, and will be sure to communicate all of the details in advance, as soon as they are set, to the great team of folks within the JKCRF.

Our family appreciates the opportunity to tell our story, and more importantly, the story of husband, father, friend Dennis Rohde and his battle with cancer. Born August 5, 1950, Dennis was diagnosed with Stage IV Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney Cancer) in late 2005. Dennis battled the deadly disease for three years, passing away on June 28, 2008.

Many have said that a person begins living their life when faced with a potentially deadly situation. Dennis, on the other hand, understood at an early age the value of life and lived every day appreciating it. This was due to several factors; a strong family bond shared with his father, mother, and two sisters, serious health challenges he experienced firsthand as a child and the loss of his father to lymphoma during Dennis’ teenage years. Dennis cherished the relationship and memories he made with his father, and strove to follow in his father’s footsteps by creating memories with his own family that would never be forgotten.

 
Dennis married Cindy Vrsnik, the love of his life, on February 11th, 1972; they were in their early twenties. His family began shortly thereafter when Cindy gave birth to their daughter, Michelle, in August 1973. Four years later, in June of 1977, Cindy gave birth to their son John. His family complete, Dennis worked tirelessly, at the office during the day and in graduate school during the evening, striving to establish the foundation and stability his parents had extended to him. With these responsibilities at the forefront of his life, Dennis likewise knew where his priorities lay - enjoying the fruits of labor. Whether it was a week-long Disney vacation or an afternoon-long excursion to the zoo, his heart and mind were with his family constantly. He always put his family ahead of himself. He would always be there for his children, no matter the situation. From scholastic guidance and relationship advice, to career direction or a shoulder to lean on, he was there without a second thought.

Continuing to provide love and support for his family, Dennis had the pleasure to meet and hold each of his grandchildren (Adam, Amy, Natalie, Ben and Isabelle), cherishing each moment with them – before and during his fight with cancer. Whenever a babysitter was needed, he would offer. If there was a school function, he would be in the front row. At their sporting events, he was cheering them on.
Dennis had several hobbies that kept him busy outside of his family and professional life, golfing overshadowing the rest. Other than his family, there were was little he wouldn’t put on hold for a friend with an upcoming tee time. Give him ten minutes, and you could find him waiting on the front porch or driving to the course.

The Cancer
On October 2005, during the celebration of one of Dennis’ granddaughter’s birthday, he went to the ER after having been experiencing uncomfortability and blood in his urine. Shortly thereafter, his family received the call that would change their lives forever. Dennis had cancer. Amidst feelings of shock and disbelief, Dennis and his family remained strong, knowing he would fight it, knowing he would win.

Dennis was diagnosed with stage four Renal Cell Carcinoma in late 2005. He was aggressive and strong in his fight against this disease, researching and trying new and experimental treatments, displaying his consistently strong will to live life and remain with his loved ones. Through good times and bad, painful side effects and discouraging news, Dennis remained lighthearted and positive.

Dennis battled with cancer for three years. Three years that consisted of love, life, and laughter - family, friends, travel, golf … hope. On Dennis’ last trip to the golf course, while being too winded to play, he was content to simply ride along and spend time with close friends.
On June 28th, 2008 after being hospitalized for two weeks and having an irrecoverable stroke, Dennis Rohde passed on. With a lifetime spent bringing a smile to the faces of those that saw the gleam in his eyes, heard the spark in his voice, and felt the warmth in his touch, his glow still remains in the hearts and minds of those that had the privilege of knowing him.
It was Dennis’ last request for his family and friends to have a party after he passed, forgoing the need to grieve, and instead celebrate his life. His family did just that. They took it a step further and continued the fight Dennis had started, honoring his memory by establishing the annual Dennis Rohde Memorial Golf Outing. Following their exposure to the John Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation piece, during an episode of 60 Minutes, the decision was made that this foundation would be the sole donation recipient of the annual event.

The First Annual Dennis Rohde Memorial Golf Outing turned out to be a great success, raising $9,000 with the help of sponsors, players, and volunteers. This tournament, as well as future events in honor and celebration of Dennis Rohde, gives remembrance of the man loved by so many and hope to others that have been affected by this terrible disease.
Dennis Rohde was a huge inspiration to those that were close to him and created a phenomenal foundation for his family. He gave them so much, and now they’re here to give back, doing their part to “Spread the Wave to Cure Cancer”.