Aaron W. Schantz

Aaron Schantz, 54, passed away in his home on Sunday, September 13, 2026, with his loved ones at his side. A Celebration of Life will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the Hiawatha Community Center, 101 Emmons Street, Hiawatha, Iowa 52233.

Aaron was a 1993 Washington High School graduate and went on to be a dedicated and meticulous employee at various jobs, his favorite being Aegon. An active member of the Marion and Cedar Rapids community throughout his adult life, he loved shopping, camping, traveling, and going to music concerts and festivals. He lived to spread joy and connect with everyone around him through big smiles, hugs and handshakes. Aaron loved all genres of film and music but was most inspired by the wonder of science fiction films and the energy of ‘80s big hair music. Life saw Aaron achieve innumerable goals through Special Olympics, basketball, softball, and many trips with Camp Courageous. In later years you could find him playing bingo, singing karaoke, doing arts and crafts and enjoying day trips with his amazing staff and friends at the rec center.

Aaron’s roommates were family. Their time spanned three decades, and they lived an active and happy lifestyle together, enjoying grocery shopping, nightly dinners, parties, and community and sporting events. Such fullness was supported by caregivers, many who were long-term figures and loved ones.

Aaron also shared a lifelong bond with his sister, Rachel, one of the kind few siblings experience. Deep connection and love underlay their endless advocacy and protection of each other, and belly-laughs and hugs brought them ever together.

Aaron was preceded in death by his loving grandmother, Eleanor Cook; a doting aunt, Paula Cook; grandfather, Walter Cook; grandmother, Darlene Schantz; grandfather, Carlton Schantz; aunt, Marilyn Whitney; uncle, Donald Schantz; and loving group home pup, Ono.

Aaron is survived by his mother, Linda “Reanna” Cook; sister and brother-in-law, Rachel (Adam) Chrystal; nephew, Briggs Chrystal; aunt, Joanie (Marc) Mills; uncles, Martin (Carolyn) Cook, Larry (Linda) Schantz, and Dean (Kit) Schantz; cousins, Charles, Christen, Jana, and Hayley; his longtime friends and roommates, Aaron Reid, Scott Edgerly, Eric Nemmers, and more recently, Jacob Pratt; a devoted cast of caregivers; and biological father and brother, Paul (Kim) and Derek Schantz.

Aaron’s closest loved ones would like to extend gratitude to the staff and caregivers, including Hospice of Mercy, for their indispensable help through Aaron’s final tour.