I first got to know Aaron 10+ years ago as DJAJ at USA Climbing Youth Nationals. His enthusiasm, kindness, and warm smile were magnetic and added so much positive energy to those events. We stayed in touch over the ensuing years, talking about climbing and kids and occasionally running into each other in random climbing locations.

Most recently, I was one of the very few and very fortunate “Climbing Moms” who were able to experience Alpha Climbing’s inaugural Climbing Moms Greek Wine Tour earlier this year. When my friend Melissa asked me if I would help her celebrate her 60th birthday on this trip and then learned that Aaron and Robyn would be leading it, I said yes without hesitation – and I’m so glad I did!

We had an unforgettable week, filled with thought-provoking conversation, laughter, climbing, wine tasting, delicious meals, music, exploring, sightseeing and just having non-stop fun. Something about Aaron’s positive energy and belief in me had me climbing the hardest grades of my life, even at the age of 62! I’ve been climbing for over 30 years but this was my first experience being on a guided trip. Aaron had everything dialed and we just flowed seamlessly from one activity/experience/location to the next. As well researched and planned as the trip was though, Aaron was always flexible and adaptable – such a natural leader, always striking the balance between professional and silly. If he had asked, I would have signed up on the spot for next year’s trip!

In Greece, I often found myself reflecting on what it might be like to be a kid on an Alpha Climbing trip. To be truly seen, mentored, lifted up and led by such wise and lovely people as Aaron (and Robyn, too) in those formative adolescent years would be such a gift. I admired Aaron’s commitment and passion for helping kids find their voice and strive to become the best version of themselves.

The world needs more people like Aaron. His passing is devastating and my heart breaks for all of us in his communities, especially for his family and friends. I take some comfort in knowing that Aaron’s spirit and Alpha Climbing’s mission live on, and that his legacy will continue. Alpha Climbing, you have my support!

Aaron (& Duane) were involved in a middle school summer camping program with Bloomington Public Schools called Operation Adventure, where we camped, hiked, swam, canoed, kayaked parts of northern Minnesota & Wisconsin.  Aaron was a student camper, then a high school and college counselor for a few years before he moved on.   Aaron's enthusiasm and fun energy were able to change anyone's negative attitude on those cold rainy days on the trail and river!  It is always satisfying to see former students continue with their spirit of adventure later on in life and to make it his career always makes me smile.

One of my favorite stories of Aaron was at the Sturgeon Lake Rest Area off of I-35 in Minnesota, where he and I discovered a wild raspberry patch just off the parking lot.  We gorged on the fruit, but I left to get back on the bus with the kids.  When the bus was all loaded, we took off down the on-ramp to the freeway to go back to school after a week of camping.  I looked around and said "Where's Aaron?"  Sure enough, in the rearview mirror, you could see Aaron running down the ramp to catch up to the bus.  We stopped, he jumped on and held out his hand with more raspberries and mumbled with a full mouth of his harvest "Want some more?"  Everyone laughed. I think of him every time I drive by that rest area.  

He will be missed...