How did Jake and Sam Ehlinger's dad die? Ross Herbert Ehlinger was a celebrated lawyer who met tragic end at 46
The world of American football is sending its condolences to the Ehlinger family for yet another untimely death amidst them. Young football star Jake Ehlinger was found dead near the campus of University of Texas. The tragedy came as the family was celebrating older brother Sam Ehlinger's selection into the Colts in the NBA draft that happened just days ago.
Unfortunately, this tragedy follows that of the two brothers' father, Ross Ehlinger, who also had an untimely death at the age of just 46 while running a triathlon in San Francisco. Ross was famous for his legal expertise, with an illustrious career that spanned across two decades. Unfortunately, he too was met with an untimely demise, just seven years ago.
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Who was Ross Ehlinger?
Born on June 29, 1966, the trial lawyer played the field for 20 years and was widely celebrated as his obituary claims he "fought for the underdog". The University of Texas graduate met the love of his life and his future wife Jena Cissel in his sophomore year and went on to father three sons with her — Samuel, Jacob and Morgen. The older two brothers became professional footballers.
Ross' obituary describes him as a "beloved father, husband, son, brother, uncle, friend and sports enthusiast". The obituary also noted how "It's hard to imagine a prouder father. Ross took an enthusiastic role in his kids' lives, coaching youth baseball, basketball, lacrosse and football." It added: "His love of sports, travel, and adventure was infectious. Ross's twinkling blue eyes never shined brighter than when talking about Jena and the kids. Well traveled and worldly, he still preferred his cowboy boots and pickup."
How did Ross Ehlinger die?
Ross died from an apparent heart attack at the age of 46, while he was running the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon in San Francisco. The obituary notes: "God called Ross to Heaven doing what he loved as he competed in the swim portion of the Escape to Alcatraz Triathlon." The Statesman had reported at the time that Ross' family was supportive of his athletic spirit and endeavors. A family friend had even recalled how Ross' wife would often quip "look at my crazy husband doing a tri at age (almost) 50."
Ross' friend Steve Harren had remarked how "his family was his everything, his whole world". "When we’d go paragliding with the kids and we were all nervous, he’d yell, 'This is supposed to be fun!'" Another friend called Paige Alam had also said at the time: "His heart was so big, he was such a gift for us all."
Jake Ehlinger's tragic death
Ross' second child and Texas linebacker Jake was found dead in Austin on May 6. According to the police, Jake's body was found near the university campus by officers responding to a call just after 12pm. As of now, the death is not being treated suspiciously as there were no signs of foul play. The news comes days after Ross' oldest son, Sam, was drafter to the Colts. He is now being flown back home immediately, say reports.