On March 20th, 2023 Deputy Mike Milmerstadt was training at a gym and suffered a bad headache, later diagnosed as a serious brain injury. Three days later, on March 23rd, Mike's family said goodbye to him.

Mike was an amazing, father, husband, son, friend and deputy. Nothing made him happier than being with his wife Melanie and their boys. He was also a member of Orange County Sherrif's Office SWAT team.

Join us March 1st, 2025 as we pay tribute in our 3rd annual “Ruck for Mike” rucking event.

This year, we turn our focus to two young girls who have faced the unimaginable loss of their mother, Lt. Ellie Shea, a shining star within the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Ellie touched the lives of many with her compassion, dedication, and infectious spirit. Her presence brought light to every room, and her legacy as a mentor, advocate, and inspiration will forever be remembered. Tragically, Ellie's life was cut short, and her estranged husband stands accused of being responsible for her death. She leaves behind her two precious daughters, Lana 7 and Rocky 2. These beautiful little girls now must grow up without their beloved mother (and father). The road ahead of them is filled with challenges, but together, we can ensure that Ellie's legacy lives on through her daughters, as we provide them with the love, care, and resources they need to thrive. All profits from this year’s event will be put into a trust for Lana and Rocky as they navigate this difficult road ahead, knowing that Ellie's spirit will always be with them.

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RFM MERCH

EARN THE DAY

Mike believed in living a fulfilled life and pushing past his limits every day. One of his passions was working/CrossFit, and he would push himself to the max to complete the most challenging workouts. He lived by the motto "Earn the Day," which meant that he never took a day for granted and always made the most of every opportunity. Mike was an inspiration to those around him, always encouraging others to push themselves and reach their full potential.

DATE

March 1st 2025
11am Checkin
12pm Ruck

LOCATION

CrossFit Lions Den
Orlando, Florida
View Location

Statement from Deputy Milmerstadt’s family

We want to thank everyone for the outpouring of prayers, support and love you have shown us.
 
We are devastated that despite all of our prayers, nothing could be done to save Mike.
 
Mike is an amazing, father, husband, son, friend and deputy. Nothing made him happier than being with his wife Melanie and their boys.
 
Mike loved his family, loved his work and his colleagues, and loved Mixed Martial Arts. His dedication to all of those things made him a great husband, father, deputy and fighter.
 
We know he’s been fighting all week in the most important bout of his life. His departure leaves a painful void that can never be filled.
 
We want to thank Mike’s colleagues at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for wrapping their arms around our entire family, and holding us tight as we made our way through this devastating journey.
 
We are so grateful to all of you who have contributed to the GoFundMe. Melanie and the kids will need all of that support as they attempt to move forward. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THE MILMERSTADT FAMILY

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