Aaron Hjelt, founder and head coach of Alpha Climbing, died in a fatal accident.
Aaron, born on September 15, 1978, lived in Lander, Wyoming.
According to Aaron’s official LinkedIn handle, he received his bachelor’s degree in fine/studio arts from Montana State University-Bozeman in 2004.
From May 2007 to January 2017, he served as executive director of Touch The Sky. Later, he became a partner and head route setter at Spire Climbing Center.
He founded DJAJ Audiovisual Solutions in January 2001. Since December 2016, he has been serving as the head coach of Alpha Climbing LLC.
Aaron Hjelt Tragically Died In A Non-Climbing Accident At The Age Of 47
As per the sources, beloved founder and head coach of Alpha Climbing, Aaron Hjelt, died in a tragic non-climbing accident in Spain on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 47.
Alpha Climbing took to their official Facebook handle to announce the tragic news. They wrote,
It is with the heaviest heart that I share some terrible news. Aaron Hjelt the beloved creator and head coach of alpha climbing passed away yesterday in a tragic non-climbing accident in Spain. This will come as a shock to many, and we are all reeling as we deal with this as best we can. Aaron was truly one of a kind and meant so much to so many. My deepest condolences go to everyone who will feel this loss. This is am unimaginable loss and I, along with the other alpha mentors, am here to support anyone who needs it in any way. Feel free to DM me if you need anything at all. More words to come.
Alpha climbing
Jeanie Iverson Crawford also took to her official Facebook handle and mourned the loss of Aaron by stating,
This guy! Great guy! Literally took people to amazing heights in so many ways
Jeanie Iverson Crawford
Chris Tullar, who was with Aaron in the art department at MSU, also offered his heartfelt condolences. He wrote,
Aaron was a truly inspired and creative person. We were in the art department at MSU together and shared many good times. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing. Best wishes to his family.
Chris Tullar
Other close ones and relatives have also poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Aaron’s family to stay strong in this challenging time.
Aaron will always be remembered for his contribution as a climber and the owner of Alpha Climbing. The funeral service schedule will soon be made available by his family.
Rest in Heaven, Aaron Hjelt.
Aaron Hjelt Is Survived By His Brother, Duane Hjelt
Head coach Aaron Hjelt grew up with his brother, Duane Hjelt, a former physical therapist at Team Select.
Duane received his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from St. Cloud State University in 2000.
Later, he received his master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in 2004.
Duane also served as the physical therapist at Charter Healthcare of Loveland. Currently, he is serving as an Independent Contractor.
He has been married to Jeanine Hjelt, a physician assistant, who resides in Fort Collins, Colorado. Together, they share two children.
Currently, Duane is mourning the tragic loss of his brother, Aaron. He said,
To everyone that has responded….thank you so much. My family is devastated by Aaron’s passing. It’s doesn’t feel real. Please feel free to post pictures, videos or send them directly to me. Aaron Hjelt was my hero as he was to many others and any memories that can be sent our way would be invaluable. Thank you, Duane Hjelt
Duane Hjelt
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Aaron Hjelt visited Cuba for 10 days in early 2019 to explore the climbing, experience the culture, and meet the local climbing community.
- Aaron Hjelt also served as the ambassador at USE9.
