Aaron Patrick Pehrson

March 17, 1968 — December 19, 2025

Aaron Patrick Pehrson of Cottage Grove, Minnesota passed away on Friday, December 19th at the age of fifty-seven.

Born on March 17, 1968, in Deer River, MN, Aaron spent his early years fishing, hunting, and swimming in Deer Lake in the summers. Portions of his youth were also spent in Mahnomen, MN where he fondly spoke of having breakfast with his mom and sister, Kim, at the Red Apple Café. Mahnomen also gave Aaron his very best friend (Kevin Broers) who was by his side for 45 years. Throughout his lifetime, he spent many enjoyable days "Up North" in Northome, MN in and around Island Lake in the glow of perfectly crafted bonfires and surrounded by family. Aaron married his college sweetheart in 1995 with whom he shared a lifetime of adventures and an amazing son who he was immensely proud of.

Aaron's life was marked by perseverance and dedication as he worked diligently to self-finance his college education (B.S.B.A, Russian Studies, University of Minnesota; Master of Science in Management, Univ of AL in Huntsville). He faithfully served his country through a lifetime of military and civilian careers that span the course of over 30 years. Highlights include joining the Naval Reserves at the age of seventeen and continuing that service until college graduation. Attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Aaron was a decorated Air Force Intelligence Officer who served at Kirtland AFB, Sandia National Labs and Kabul, Afghanistan. He advocated tirelessly for those reporting to him to ensure that they were treated fairly and properly recognized. This spirit of advocacy continued in retirement as he spent countless hours assisting veterans with their VA medical claims both in his spare time and in an official capacity as a Disabled American Veterans Volunteer. A little-known highlight of Aaron's many accomplishments includes an offer of employment from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the fall of 1998. Considering the incredibly demanding career of an FBI Special Agent, Aaron chose family over prestige and declined the offer. Outside of work, Aaron had an eclectic love for music and a great curiosity for other cultures. His love of travel took him all over the country and to many parts of the world.

Aaron is survived by one son (Max) of Colorado Springs, CO; brothers: Gene (Heidi) of Grand Rapids, MN; Daniel (Lisa) of San Diego, CA; Craig (Janine) of Cohasset, MN and one sister (Kim) of Cottage Grove, MN. He also leaves behind aunts and uncles: Kathleen Reitan of Minneapolis, MN; Janice Mann of Eden Prairie, MN; Karen Collins, Wyoming; Juneal Reitan of Northome, MN; Donna Dale of Stillwater, MN; Richard Reitan of Stillwater, MN; and several nieces and nephews: Kati, Devon, Nicole, Sophia, Megan, Brooke, Ryan and Annie.

He is predeceased by his parents (Donald and Carolyn Reitan Pehrson), grandparents (maternal: Oscar and Vivian; paternal: Donald Sr. and Johanna) aunts and uncles: Muriel, Eldred, Daniel, Hobart, Raymond and Robert.

Aaron also leaves behind many friends with whom he shared laughter, tears, beers, road trips, coffees, fishing trips and countless other wonderful memories.

A Graveside Service is planned for Thursday, June 11th at 10:00 AM and will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Please arrive to Assembly Area 4 by 9:45 AM. A pdf map can be found below. Please note that our time at the shelter is 15 minutes.

A Celebration of Life Luncheon will be hosted by the family at 11:00 AM at Buca Di Bepp, 2728 Gannon Road, St. Paul, MN 55116.

As Aaron and his family were blessed with many opportunities through the Wounded Warriors Program, it is requested that those wishing to honor his memory please provide a donation to either of the following: