Dean Roumeliotis Death, Melbourne, VIC Obituary – Doutta Stars Football Club Mourns Loss of Beloved #44

The Essendon Doutta Stars Football Club is mourning the heartbreaking passing of Dean “Deano” Roumeliotis, a much-loved young player whose life and football journey were closely connected with the club.

Dean joined Doutta Stars in 2015 as an Under 8 and progressed through the club’s junior program. Known for his fierce competitiveness, he regularly challenged himself against older players and eventually made his senior Reserves debut at just 16 in 2024.

That year, Dean was also the starting ruckman in the club’s Under 18 Grand Final side. In 2025, he continued to establish himself in the Premier Division as a powerful presence in the ruck, playing 13 games and being named among the team’s best four times.

Remembering Dean Roumeliotis

Beyond football, Dean was remembered by teammates and the wider Doutta Stars community for his cheeky personality, toughness, loyalty and kindness.

The club described him as someone who always had his teammates’ backs and played with enormous pride for the Doutta Stars jumper. Beneath his competitive nature was a warm and caring young man who enjoyed making people laugh and helping others feel welcome.

His connection with the Roumeliotis family also runs deep within the club, which expressed gratitude for the family’s longstanding contribution to Doutta Stars.

Family and Football Community Mourn

Dean’s passing has left his family, friends, teammates and the wider football community devastated. His legacy will remain part of the Essendon Doutta Stars Football Club, where he will forever be remembered as a teammate, friend and proud member of the club.

A service celebrating Dean’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 1, at 10:00 a.m. at St Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Church in Moonee Ponds.

Dean lived with epilepsy, and in his memory, his family has asked those wishing to contribute to support the Epilepsy Foundation rather than giving gifts.

For those who knew Dean, his No. 44 jumper will forever carry a special meaning.

A teammate. A friend. A Douttas boy. Our #44.

Forever #44.

Vale, Dean Roumeliotis.