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Aaron's obituary

Chris Aaron Rolph, 53, passed away on April 20, 2025, in Anderson Township, Ohio, from complications of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and diabetes. Born on August 5, 1971, in Ft. Thomas, Kentucky, Chris’s life was defined by creativity, craftsmanship, music, an amazing sense of humor, and a deep love for his family and the people in his life he cherished. 

A proud graduate of Conner High School’s Class of 1989, Chris was raised in the LDS (Mormon) Church and faithfully attended Seminary each morning before school. These formative experiences instilled values that remained with him throughout his life. 

Chris was a gifted musician who played guitar with both talent and passion. His musical abilities were matched by his craftsmanship—he not only composed and performed, but also built guitars and other creative works with care and precision. His artistry extended into the world of custom cars, where he restored classic muscle cars with meticulous attention to detail. He painted them with flair and skill, and raced them at local tracks such as Edgewater Speedway. His enthusiasm for automotive design also led him to craft custom slot cars known as “dragjet resins,” which earned recognition among collectors and online hobbyist communities.

He was one of the funniest people anyone ever met, and took great joy in being able to make people laugh. He was tender hearted and sentimental, as well. Hum the tune to "Snoopy Come Home" near him on the right day and he'd get teary eyed. One of his last social media posts was a simple statement that he missed his beagle puppy. He was generous with everything he had, but most of all with the words "I love you." He loved his kids with all his heart, and would play The Beatles' song "Here Comes The Sun" on his guitar and tell people that was his song for them, and that Reese and Christian were the best thing that every ever happened in his life. He was grateful every day to have the honor to be their Dad.

Chris is lovingly remembered by his children, Reese and Christian; siblings Suzanne Rolph-McFalls (Michael), Janice Arlene Modarelli (Nick), and James Rolph Jr. (Susan); nieces Lauren Marks and Michelle Rolph; nephews Cameron Modarelli, Nicholas Modarelli, and Brandon Rolph; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins; and many treasured friends.

He held a special place in his heart for Joan Courtney, whom he called “my second Mom.” We should all be so lucky to have a Joan in our lives.

Chris was single when he died, but was previously married to his high school sweetheart, Kathy Sinclair Hensley Clary, and then to the mother of his two beloved children, Amy Gullet Freeman.

He was preceded in death by his father James Millard Rolph Sr.,in 1984, mother Gracie Evelyn Rolph in 2017, and brother Michael Kelly Rolph in 1999.

In honor of Chris’s generous spirit, and to help people who have NAFLD or NASH, and others in need of transplants, the family encourages each of you to consider becoming organ donors. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Some of Aaron's favorite songs are here on this Spotify Playlist. If you think of something to add, just mention it here and we'll add it! 

https://open.spotify.com/play…

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Christian "Aaron" Rolph