Son Of Jukebox Industry Leader John Margold Dies At 33 Matthew Kaufman Suffered From PTSD

DENVER -- Matthew Kaufman, son of Julie Shelffo and AMI Entertainment Network's John Margold, died earlier this week. Kaufman, an Iraq War veteran, was struggling from posttraumatic stress disorder, which brought about a lethal accident that took his life here. He was 33.

Lance Cpl. Kaufman was part of the U.S. Marine Corps during the Iraqi War that began with an invasion in 2003 and toppled the government of Saddam Hussein. Following his term of service, he suffered from PTSD, a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event -- either by experiencing or witnessing it. PTSD is often considered a soldier's illness, since those who have served in combat are much more likely to develop it.

"Just as he spent many years selflessly defending his country, it was Matthew's wish to donate his organs to offer others a second chance at life," said Shelffo and Margold. "Although our hearts are broken, thinking of all those parents whose children will be getting a new chance is comforting. Please think of our veterans, so many who come back with a terrible struggle ahead. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers."

Margold, who in April marked his 40th year in the jukebox and amusement industry, is senior vice-president of sales of AMI Entertainment.

The U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs estimates that PTSD afflicts 20% of Iraq War veterans. For more information, visit ptsdusa.org.

PHOTOS: At left, John Margold (l.) is pictured with son Matthew Kaufman. At right, Lance Cpl. Kaufman is pictured in the Iraqi desert.