Two Michigan State University students recently died and their deaths came within weeks of each other. 

Rowan Palen, 20, was killed in a one-vehicle crash on July 29 in Mendon, Monroe County sheriff’s spokesman Deputy Brendan Hurley announced. Palen was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Oghenevwede (Wede) Okagbare, 20, was found dead in a home in Howell. He was fatally shot just after midnight on Aug. 11 according to the Howell Police Department. The investigation is still ongoing. 

Palen, a student studying civil engineering and architecture, is described in his obituary as being “quick-witted, satiric, ironic and wonderful to be with.” His family described him as a fixer who always took problems into his own hands and who was wise and smart. 

Palen was a member of Sigma Pi Fraternity. In a GoFundMe campaign, created by member Rob Calatrava to raise money for Palen’s family, fraternity brothers described him as a valued member of the fraternity and said he was known for his commitment to their values and willingness to lend a hand.

“He always had a huge smile on his face. Rowan’s presence will be missed by all of our brothers here at Michigan State University," according to the GoFundMe campaign.

A GoFundMe campaign described Okagbare as an information science and computer engineering student who had recently received an internship with Rocket Mortgage. He enjoyed playing basketball and bass guitar.

“He was a loving son and brother who was hard-working and loved by many. He will be dearly missed,” according to the GoFundMe campaign.   

Interim Dean of MSU College of Communication Arts and Sciences Teresa Mastin released an email to students regarding Okagbare’s death. 

“I am deeply saddened to inform you of a loss within our ComArtSci and MSU family,” Mastin said. “Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and all who knew him.” 

Students can access Counseling and Psychiatric Services by visiting caps.msu.edu or calling (517) 355-8270.