Aaron Douglas Traxler, age 46, of Shelby, died on Sunday, September 27, 2026 at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. His unexpected death follows a sudden illness while vacationing with family in Tennessee.

Aaron was born June 26, 1980 in Mount Vernon, OH and attended Madison Local Schools. Anyone who knew Aaron knew his passion for cooking. He found great joy in preparing food for others. Those lucky enough to enjoy his cooking knew he had a special talent, especially when it came to his smashburgers. His passion paired with his career as he worked for many years a cook at various local restaurants. For the last 8 years, Aaron has worked at Emerson Process Management where he was currently employed.

Aaron had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel and explore new places. Whether he was spending time at the ocean, enjoying the shores of Lake Erie, or heading out on a tent camping trip, he was happiest when there was something new to see or experience. He especially enjoyed hiking, exploring the outdoors, and simply seeing where the next adventure might take him. For Aaron, it wasn’t always about the destination, but about spending time with his family, making memories, and spending time with his family. No matter where life took him, the people he loved were always at the center of his world. Time spent together, the memories they made, and simply being surrounded by those closest to him were what Aaron treasured most. Aaron also enjoyed all things basketball whether that be playing, watching, or simply “shooting hoops” at home.

Aaron courageously and successfully battled throat cancer beginning with a diagnosis in 2023. He was incredibly proud to be in remission and enjoying life as a survivor. It certainly shows his sense of resiliency and determination.

Aaron is survived by his wife, Kalina Marie (Moore) Traxler, whom he married February 20, 2021. He is also survived by his daughters: Delainey and Lillian Traxler at home, America Traxler of Kentucky, and Kayla Traxler of Kentucky; grandchildren: Journi Traxler and Sailor Traxler; mother: Lugene Sqrow; father: Dean Sqrow; mother-in-law and father-in-law: Wendy and John Moore; brother–in-law: Tyler (Devon) Moore; nieces and nephews: Oliver, Vanessa, Madilyn, and Elliott; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Eugene Traxler in 2013.

Family and friends are welcome on Friday, October 2, 2026 from 4-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 12 noon. Rev. James Robinson will officiate the services with burial immediately following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby.

For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to assist with future expenses for Aaron’s children. Checks may be made payable to Kalina Traxler.

Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook.

Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home

Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com