Aaron Dillon Monroe

Aaron was born in Portsmouth, Ohio, on June 13, 1951, to Janice and Gilbert Monroe. One summer day at the pool, during his junior year of high school, the path of his life was set. Aaron met Maura Ann Graf and a love for the ages began.

Fortunately for his family, a love-struck Aaron still went on to graduate from Portsmouth High School in 1969, and continued his education by graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ohio University in 1973. That same year he and Maura tied the knot and have been inseparable for the last 53 years. Following college, he and Maura moved to Cortland, Ohio where they raised their two children, Aaron and Amanda.

In Cortland, Aaron also put to work his sharp, analytical mind. He spent 36 years solving challenging problems for Delphi-Packard Electric earning multiple US Patents for his work. Upon retirement, he and Maura relocated to the Columbus area to be closer to their kids and grandchildren. Aaron also found a second act, working at Woodcraft for the next 10 years sharing his love and knowledge of woodworking with the Central Ohio community before retiring again to spend more time with his family.

Aaron was much more than his career. He was a man who loved to create, explore, laugh, and share his passions with the people around him. He was also an avid fisherman and especially loved fly fishing. Some of his happiest memories were made outdoors, including annual beach trips with his wife and children, fishing expeditions with his buddies, and regular trips to the mountains of Yellowstone and Montana. He was a talented, skilled woodworker whose hands could turn a simple piece of wood into something beautiful.

Music was another important part of Aaron’s life. He loved to play his guitar and harmonica, sharing his musical talents with others, especially his grandkids. Many evenings were filled with music, laughter, and harmony, creating memories that his family and friends will carry with them forever.

Aaron’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Maura Graf Monroe, whom he married in 1973. Together they built a life filled with love, family, adventure, laughter, and countless memories. He is also survived by his children, Aaron and Rebekah Monroe and Amanda and Brandon King, and his grandchildren, Nevaeh Monroe, Everett Monroe, and Madeline King.

He is also survived by his brother, Stephen (Susie) Monroe, sister, Dianne Mader, and brothers and sisters-in-law: Mike (Vicki) Graf, Dave (Erin) Graf, John (Robin) Graf, Barbara Graf, Regina (Ron) Vastine, Greg (Crystal) Graf, Brenda (Bill) Graf- Daehler, Anna Graf, Jim (Amy) Graf, Chuck (Cathy) Graf, Tom (April) Graf, Dory Graf, and Kris (Mitch) Oelker, as well as 108 nieces and nephews.

His memory will be shared by many, many dear friends.

Aaron was preceded in death by his parents, Janice E. Monroe Campbell and Gilbert S. Monroe, his stepfather, William Campbell, and his brother-in-law, Joseph Mader.

Aaron had a way of making ordinary moments special. The stories, laughter, music, and memories he leaves behind will continue to bring comfort to those who loved him.

Visitation will be on Sunday August 30, 2026, at Schoedinger Funeral Home, 6699 North High Street, Worthington, Ohio, 43085. Visitation hours are 4pm to 7pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Monday August 31, 2026, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 10700 Liberty Road South, Powell, Ohio, officiated by Fr. David Schalk. Lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Project Healing Waters & The Michael J. Fox Foundation which are both linked below.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to their one special Night Caregiver, as well as the Home Helpers Home Care and Tranquility Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided to Aaron and his family.

He will be loved, remembered, and missed more than words can say.