Heaven welcomed a loved & respected Husband, Father, Friend, Race Car Driver, Carpenter & Pilot on June 27, 2025 at age 86, when Aaron Walter Solsrud completed his journey of a life lived to the fullest. Aaron was born in 1939 to Walter & Eleanor in Milwaukee, WI. He was the second oldest of four, and was preceded in death by siblings: Vern, Merrill, and Irving.

Aaron followed his father into the Carpentry trade, and ultimately began his own successful business, all while becoming a local celebrity in dirt track stock car racing. Aaron began as a rookie in 1960, winning Rookie of the Year, after building his first stock car and teaching himself to drive at local dirt tracks including Slinger, Hales Corners, State Fair Park, Cedarburg, and Beaver Dam. Aaron’s 1967 #13 Snagglepuss Modified Stock Car was a fan favorite, and over the years Aaron drove many other cars/numbers, winning many track championships. The thrill of flight became Aaron’s passion following racing retirement and he became a pilot of his own Cessna Airplane. When Aaron finally retired from his day job of building beautiful homes, he re-entered the car world and began building old Ford cars & trucks, including his favorite red Street Rod 1935 Ford Slant Back.

Aaron has two daughters Kim Gerrard, Kris (Victor) Sprtel, with first wife Janice Kauth. In 1976 Aaron married wife Caryl and became step father to Kim (Tom-deceased) Vieth & Wes (Patty) Billiat. Aaron & Caryl enjoyed almost 50 years of marriage, while spending time with their dog Marley, family & friends at their Hartland homestead, Iola cabin, boating, flying, traveling and displaying their classic cars at many shows, while being proud members of the Wisconsin & National Street Rod Associations, and “AOPA” Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association.

Aaron kept a positive attitude as he struggled with Alzheimer’s disease for over 10 years, but remained strong and active. His quick witted, Norwegian sense of humor was always there to lighten a mood and encourage a good laugh!

Aaron is also survived by Grandchildren including: Aaron S. Solsrud, Joshua Bailey (deceased), Karley (Garrett) Russert, Chelsey (Kyle) Resler, Alexandria (Ryan Gorman) Vieth, Weston (Sami Stark) Billiat; along with Great Grandsons Landen Solsrud & Vaylen Resler.

Visitation will be held Friday July 11th at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home Sussex, W250N6505 Hwy 164, from 1 -2:30 PM, with Memorial Service from 2:30–3 PM. Celebration of Life to follow at the Machine Shed Restaurant. Casual attire encouraged.

A heartfelt thank you to the loving caregivers at the Congregational Home, Lakewood Memory Care, and Brighton Hospice for their support and compassion. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Aaron’s name can be sent to Bichon and Little Buddies Rescue Mukwonago, WI.