Richard "Dick" Dean Aaron, 84, passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 17, at MCHS surrounded by the love of his family. Born January 15, 1932 he was the son and only child of L.W. "Pat" and Dorothy Aaron. Proud of his Westside Neighborhood roots, he happily shared stories about his childhood friends and their 9th Ward adventures. He graduated from Eau Claire High School in 1950 and served in the Air Force for two years prior to an honorable discharge due to asthma related issues. Dick married his "one true love", Carleen Ann Schoonover at Good Shephard Lutheran Church on November 5, 1955. Their vows of until death due us part is their finest legacy and greatest gift to their family. A journey tradesman for Hoepner-Bartlett Co in Eau Claire, he completed the requirements of his 5-yr apprenticeship in two years; and, discovered what would become his lifelong passion, commercial construction. With an unparalleled work ethic and a deep respect for Mr. John Hoepner, Sr. he was soon promoted from Crew Supervisor to Vice President. A role he cherished, it was during this time that he was directly involved in the building of many of the city's most prominent commercial landmarks and humbly credited success to his outstanding crews! His desire to start and fully run a company presented itself in the early 80's when he partnered to create The Hallbeck Group Design Build. This brought with it opportunity to expand project scope; and, his entrepreneurial dream of owning a company with a name of his choosing, Kodiak Construction, came to fruition a short time thereafter. Dick was a man of great integrity and conducted business with the highest of standards. He preferred to play by the "old rules" in which his reputation was his resume and a solid handshake the accepted bid. For those that truly knew Dick, it was easy to see that his family was his most treasured asset and the driving force for achieving success. Admittedly a workaholic, retirement allowed time to more fully enjoy his family, embrace his faith, and appreciate the simple beauty of a well-manicured lawn. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carleen Ann; two children, Paul (Arlo) Aaron, Elizabeth (Oscar) Brandser; four grandchildren, Brandon, Samantha (Joel), Taylor (Nate) and Kathleen (Kyle); and two great-grandchildren, Bradyn and Cash. The family will welcome visitors at Grace Lutheran Church, 202 Grand Ave. in Eau Claire, on Thursday, July 21, 2016. Visitation begins at 10 a.m. followed by an 11 a.m. service with Pastor Dean W. Simpson officiating. A private family burial will take place later that day. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to direct donations in Dick's memory to Grace Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 965, Eau Claire, 54702; Feed My People; or, a charity of their choice.

Service Information

Visitation

Thursday, July 21 2016 10:00 AM

Grace Lutheran Church 202 W. Grand Ave. Eau Claire WI

Funeral Service

Thursday, July 21 2016 11:00 AM

Grace Lutheran Church 202 W. Grand Ave. Eau Claire WI