Aaron Michael Fletcher

Aaron Michael Fletcher, age 49, of Gillette, Wyoming, tragically passed away on February 15, 2025. Born on March 23, 1975, in Clairton, Pennsylvania, Aaron lived a life defined by service, strength, and passion-a true mountain man whose presence touched many and whose legacy will endure.
Aaron graduated from Clairton High School and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1995. Over the next two decades, he dedicated himself to serving his country with distinction, retiring as a Lieutenant Operations Limited Duty Officer on May 31, 2015. Highly decorated, Aaron wore many honors with pride, embodying the core values of honor, courage, and commitment. He furthered his education while in service, earning a Bachelor of Science in Workforce Development and Training from Southern Illinois University in 2007.
Following his retirement, Aaron continued to pour his energy and talent into numerous endeavors. He attended the Colorado School of Trades, specializing in Gunsmithing and Manufacturing in the Firearms Industry. A skilled craftsman, Aaron owned and operated three firearm businesses: North End Fire Arms, Pacific Indoor Tactical, and Blood Eagle Weaponry. His expertise extended to woodwork, metalwork, forging, and cerakoting-he could master anything he set his mind to.
Aaron's service to others extended beyond the military. He served as a firefighter with the Oak Harbor Fire Department, volunteered as a youth boys soccer coach for four years, and played a key role in his community as a fitness instructor and manager at North End Fitness. He was also actively involved in Project RELO, a nonprofit veterans service organization dedicated to helping veterans transition into meaningful employment.
A man of the outdoors, Aaron found peace and joy in nature. He loved hunting, fishing, kickboxing, snowmobiling, snowboarding, and living close to the land in the mountains he cherished. His bond with animals was strong, and he leaves behind his beloved horse and his loyal hunting dog and best friend, Murphy.
Aaron is survived by his children, Aaron Fletcher Jr., Tatiana Shaffer, Reilly Pena, Drake Esparza, and Kirra Esparza; his sisters, Rebecca Verlich, Bethany Verlich, and Shannan Saffer; his Aunt Barb and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Verlich; his grandparents; and his favorite cousin, Billy.
Aaron's life will be honored during a Celebration of Life on March 22, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the VFW in Oak Harbor, Washington.
Aaron Fletcher was more than a man of many talents-he was a force of nature, a legend of his own kind. Strong, resourceful, and determined, he inspired those around him with his wisdom, generosity, and grit. His absence leaves a deep void in the lives of many, but his spirit, love, and legacy will never be forgotten. He will always be loved and dearly missed.