Aaron John Szalaj, 51, of Cherry Hills Village, Colorado, passed away September 12, 2026. He left this world while doing what he loved, pursuing his lifelong passion for endurance sports.

Aaron was born on December 23, 1974. He grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois. Guided by his love for music, the outdoors, and skiing, he later moved to Colorado, where he graduated from the University of Denver with a BS in Electrical Engineering. Aaron began his career at the National Renewable Energy Lab (now National Laboratory of the Rockies) working for a solar cell start up company. He dedicated the last 20 years of his professional life to Stanley Consultants, specializing in control systems and project management for power systems. His most recent role was that of a digital practice leader in the water space.

Colorado is where Aaron built his beautiful family, meeting his wife, Becky, and raising their daughters, Mia and Margaret. A dedicated and exceptional father, Aaron loved supporting his daughters' arts, sports, music, and academics. He also embraced a house full of rescued Labrador retrievers, supporting Becky’s volunteer work with Rocky Mountain Lab Rescue.

Aaron created a rich, vibrant life shared with family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. He truly knew no stranger. His warmth, generous soul, and magnetic energy drew everyone to him. He approached life with a relentless zest, staying active through biking, running, skiing, hiking, camping, and celebrating moments in nature. His happiest memories were spent outdoors alongside those he loved. A lifelong violinist, Aaron began playing at an early age. He was awarded a music scholarship to attend college and continued playing throughout his adult life. He recently served proudly as a board member for the Friends of Chamber Music in Denver. Aaron held a deep appreciation for live music across all genres.

Though Aaron’s time was cut short, he lived without regret. He was a self-described Renaissance Man, who could never pass up an opportunity to enter a pun into conversation. Aaron proudly flew the blue “W" flag for every Chicago Cubs win, and loved cooking fantastic food for his family and friends. He seized every day to its absolute fullest, leaving behind a legacy overflowing with joy and love.

He is survived by his wife, Becky; his children, Mia and Margaret; his parents, Steven and Monica; and his brother, Chris.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time. In honor of Aaron’s vibrant life, charitable donations may be made to the Aaron J. Szalaj Memorial Fund through Friends of Chamber Music. https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/FCM-co

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
Middleton, Wisconsin
(608) 831-6761

Aaron Szalaj

December 23, 1974 - September 12, 2026

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