Aaron Paul Kareus, a science teacher and cross country/ track coach at Southside High School, and a longtime resident of Fort Smith, AR passed away on August 24th, 2022. He was surrounded by his loving family.
Aaron is survived by his wife, Mindy Kareus and his four children, Eli, Corban, Malachi, and Lily; his parents, John and Kate Kareus; his brothers, Jacob, Seth, and Adam Kareus, as well as their wives and children.
Aaron was born in Billings, Montana on November 11th, 1980 to John and Kate Kareus. He graduated Northern Arizona University with a degree in Zoology in 2002, but found his calling as a teacher in Arkansas where he taught for 16 years, the last 12 in Fort Smith where he also served as the Southside High School track and cross country coach. On July 12th, 2002 he married his college sweetheart, Mindy and they had 4 children together. He was loved by his family deeply.
Aaron was a devoted husband, father, teacher, coach, and Young Life leader. He was passionate about making sure high school students were loved and telling them about the gospel of Jesus Christ. His faith was central to his and his family’s lives and they were members of River Valley Community Church. He was an avid rock climber and runner. When not with his family he could be found training his team or at the local climbing gym, or as he would say “better yet on some rock.” He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, students, and all who knew him.
A celebration of life service is scheduled for September 10th at 2pm at Community Bible Church @ 9201 Dallas St. Pastor Adam Kareus will officiate.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to River Valley Community Church or River Valley Young Life in Fort Smith, AR.
