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Grandy – Aaron Palen was a light that shone brightly. He tragically passed away on July 30, 2023 at the young age of 44. He made an indelible mark on this world and on all who loved and knew him. He loved no one more than his wife Kristin and their two children, Jayce and Kenzie.

Born in Massachusetts to Donna Palen and John Palen Jr., Aaron went on to lead an inspiring and successful life. He found joy in the simplest moments and his positivity was infectious. His glowing smile drew everyone in and they couldn’t help but feel his warm presence. Aaron gravitated to helping others always with an empathetic hand. His devotion to his family was evident. His unwavering love for his wife of nearly 19 years, support and admiration of her were ever-present. Aaron’s adoration for his children and playfulness were displayed through the endless eruption of giggles they shared. Their memories together will endure as will his impression on the PGA.

Aaron was a passionate PGA Head Golf Professional who relished his profession. He was first introduced to golf when he was thirteen and immediately fell in love with the game. Aaron played golf for (and graduated from) North Carolina Wesleyan College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Aaron’s professional career began at Benvenue Country Club in North Carolina leading him to several destinations along the way including: International Country Club (VA) where he proudly earned his PGA membership; The Golf Club at Lansdowne (VA); Mountain View Country Club (PA); Broad Bay Country Club (VA); and Colonial Heritage Golf Club (VA) where he earned the Middle Atlantic PGA Section’s Public Merchandiser of the Year. He ended his career in his “dream job” at Duck Woods Country Club in Southern Shores, North Carolina. Aaron took great pride in and was known for his merchandising and his well-executed club tournaments. His goal was to personalize all interactions resulting in a genuine friendship. Aaron dedicated himself to creating a memorable golf experience for the Duck Woods Country Club membership that he loved.

Aaron is survived by his wife Kristin and their children Jayce and Kenzie; his mother Donna Palen, his father John Palen Jr.; his brothers John III and Stephen; and his loving in-laws.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 18^th at 10 a.m. at Duck Woods Country Club, 50 S. Dogwood Trail, Southern Shores, NC, 27949 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider helping the Palen family navigate through this heart-wrenching loss and start the journey toward healing by donating to https://gofund.me/1835c477.

Please share condolences with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

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