Aaron Smellie

Aaron passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack on April 6, 2023, at his home in Happy Valley, OR. 

He was a wonderful son, father, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend.  Aaron loved being around his family all of his life! 

Aaron was born on September 9, 1977, in Ogden, UT, to David Ashley Smellie and Deta Yvonne Gleason.  He was the second child of six: Megan (Dan) Harrop, Steve (Shannon), Ashley (Drew) Whiting, Derek (Briana), and Mark (Marie). 

Aaron loved his Heavenly Father so he answered the call to serve in the Chicago North Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  To his surprise, Steve, his younger brother, joined him nine months later to serve in the same mission.  What a joy it was when they were able to be missionary companions for the last three months of Aaron’s service! 

Aaron always loved the idea of flying.  If it had wheels and a motor, he was fascinated by it!  He became an accomplished pilot, holding his instrument, multi-engine, and commercial ratings. 

Aaron married Sheila Humphries on August 10, 2002, in the Salt Lake Temple.  They were later divorced.  He married Sytske Woodhouse in the Salt Lake Temple on October 10, 2007.  They were blessed with two sons, Easton and Griffin.  They divorced in 2022. 

At the time of his passing, Aaron worked as a Produce/Grocery buyer at UNFI in the Portland, OR area, working at home while caring for Griffin. 

Even though Aaron greatly enjoyed motorcycle trips with his father and brother, Steve, his greatest strength and joy came from his testimony of a loving Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.  Aaron loved his two sons with all his heart, might, mind, and strength.  Easton has been a joy to his heart.  Griffin has always been a joy to his spirit.  His severely autistic son, Griffin, knew that Aaron loved and cared for him unconditionally.  Aaron truly believed that Griffin has a special purpose here on Earth.  We will all miss you, Aaron.   

Love, Your Family