Jandt Fredrickson Funeral Home & Crematory

It is so sad to hear about Hank Aronson's passing. Being a part of the Robed Choir, being close to his passion and his ability to treat teenagers as adults, to expect more from us, and then to see us rise to the expectation and create music that we could never dream of without him, was one of most important lessons of my education. I have never taken for granted the great privilege to be part of that experience. The fact that he could do this with love and humor and compassion was, of course, the true gift.

From Jennifer (Miner) Asselstine class of '77

You can see how those he touched loved him. He was a memorable man. I remember him attending my mother's funeral in 1993 and appreciated his personal interest in our grief. My condolences to his family and those who knew and loved him. He will be long remembered by those of us whose lives he touched.

From Greg Johnsen (CHS 72)

I remember Mr. A. standing in front of us and leading us to musical unity and expression in ways I had not experienced before. I am the "middle Grimsled brother" who sang in both Robed Choir and Swing Choir under his direction - Dave (class of 1972) and Ron (class of 1962) What a great experience! A few people leave wide ripples in the waters of life. Mr. A. was one of those special people.

From Milner (Skip) Grimsled, CHS Class of 1967

I have many fond memories of Robed Choir and even girl's choir in sophomore year. Mr. was always supportive and such an inspirational man. It wasn't that many years ago when Mr. A was at First Lutheran to watch Robed Choir perform. When I talked to him, he asked me about my family and shared some personal memories. I was so impressed. Mr. A will always be remembered!

From Merri Dahlke Shupe

Just heard of Mr. Aronson's passing. I knew him from the early '60s and can honestly say that he is one of a very few people in my life that had a positive, lasting effect. Very unexpectedly, he awarded the 1961-62 Robed Choir "OUTSTANDING SENIOR" to me. When I questioned him as to why, as I was no great voice, he simply said that the award was not necessarily for singing ability, but more for commitment to the choir. He said that every time that he would look to the bass section of the choir, my eyes were on him, ready to take direction. To me, he was saying that attitude was as important as ability, and that expression of confidence imbedded me with a drive that from that time forward has contributed to my successful life. He was truly "One in a Million!"

From Stephen Rutter, MD

Dear Mae and family, As you already know, I sent my letter of condolences last year! Mr. A had a good laugh about that, but all the things I ever wanted to say, I said in that letter and then face to face in our precious visit a year ago. Thank you, Mae, for keeping us in the loop when you got sick. Please know that we will always be grateful for the love, devotion and care that Mr. A poured into each student who was lucky enough to sing under his direction. Imagine the angel choirs he is enjoying! You are all in our prayers and thank God that he was a part of our lives. All of our love, Rachel and Dave

From Rachel and David Schwandt

Mr. A was a wonderful influence on my life and I thank God for him. I still marvel at the excellence he developed in his choirs year after year. As you know he challenged his students to memorize every song and because of that there are songs we still can sing by heart. I still can see the passion on his face as he directed us in concert - pulling out the very best in us; and we gave our all for him - gladly. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who had the privilege of sharing life with him. If there is ever an effort to gather former choir members I would make every effort to be there and I know many others would do the same.

From Mark Vinge, Class of '73

Mae, girls, and families, I am so sorry to learn of Bud's death. I knew Bud through Central, and Korey, who was impacted so much by Bud's teaching. Bud always tried to tell Ken to get his priorities straight. Bud certainly had his priorities straight as evidenced by the wonderful care you gave him for so many years Mae. There was so much love between the two of you! Bud is probably enjoying the angel choirs in heaven right now. What a wonderful man he was, not just an outstanding teacher! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you who are missing him.

From Mary Keefe Barrett

Mae, My condolences to you and all the family. Bud will certainly be missed. It was always such a pleasure to work with Bud in therapy. No matter the struggles he was having he always had a smile on his face, enough to light up the room. His gentle and compassionate heart had an affect on all of us. I will never forget him.

From Marguerite Costigan

Mr. Aronson... You were the best! We were lucky students! CHS class of '78

From Jill Glendenning Keck

Mae and family, just received an email informing me of Bud's passing. My sincere condolences on your loss. He was a most passionate and respected teacher and has left an amazing legacy in his family and students that he taught and inspired. I am so fortunate to have had him as such a dear friend. Mae, I will treasure our many times together when Dick and I would come to visit you and Hank in Onalaska, have a cup of coffee and share stories of the good old days and fun we had together during my teaching days at Central in the 60s. I also appreciate so very much the impact Bud had on my son and daughter and knowing why they held him in such high esteem as a teacher and mentor-----Will stop by to see you when I am in LaCrosse in May. Bless you and the girls, you will be in my thoughts and prayers.

From Dave Silcox

our sympathy to the Aronson family. Brad knew him as Bud as his mother and father, Marvin and Nelda Peterson ,were family friends. I was a student in the early 60's. We have sent a memorial to central high. Brad said to tell you he is sure he is teaching a chorus of angels..Q

From Brad and Monica Peterson

I only met him for "one day" in September in Duluth, Minnesota. He and his lovely wife arrived as special guests at a gathering that feted the opening of a data center. I proudly "wheeled" him around for a look see, enjoying the time talking with him and his wife. They, along with their grandchildren, were there to witness some special recognition of their daughter, Nancy, who community leadership resulted in the data center locating in Duluth. The sun was impossibly bright, but the presence of the Aronson's allowed it's warmth to get all the way to our souls. It was evident that the apple didn't fall far from the tree, as the gracious ways of Nancy were evidenced in her Mom and Dad. On behalf of many Involtans, I offer condolences to the family, especially a lovely wife and daughter who were as bright as the sky on that "one day". May all the Angels, Saints, Holy Men and Women gather him into God's eternal Grace. God Bless the memory of Henry Aronson. And when the family does gather to remember, I hope it celebrates the many, many days of impossibly bright sunshine that they shared, no matter what the weather was on a given day!

From Jeff Thorsteinson

We wish you comfort in the this time of sadness. We were fortunate to work with this wonderful man for many years at Central. He was always the true professional, always placing the needs of the students first, always placing himself in the background--never seeking attention. He not only created beauty, but also discipline and a love of music that will last a lifetime for his students.

From Brent Larson and Mary Newgard-Larson

I was so sorry to hear about Mr.Aronson. He was so kind and one of my favorite teachers at Central. My deepest sympathies to the family and friends.

From Cathi Novotney

What a wonderful man Mr. Aronson was for the students at Central & those in Robe Choir. He was a very special man. Thank you Mr. A. from Nancy & Clyde Benjamin

From The Benjamin Family

Sincerest condolences and my prayers are with you as you say good-bye to someone who, in there own way means the most to all of you.

From Patrick Mulrine

Mae , Lynn , Chris , Jill and Nancy . It is such sad news a to hear of your loss . Mom said he never said too much during the time he was working but once he retired he seemed to open up more to conversation . I remember being at your house when my mom was busy with something and you watched me . Bud would come home give a little smirk and sit down to read the paper . I didn't know him well but he seemed to be a great husband and father . He will be missed by all , I'm sure dad welcomed him with open arms . If you need anything please do not heaistate to call. Let us know when you are ready for a visit from us . Thoughts and prayers Katherine and Barb

From Katherine Olson and Barb Czaplewski

To the Aronson Family, My sincere condolences on your loss. What fond and treasured memories I,and many others have,of Mr. Aronson. He epitomized the very best in an Educator/Choir Director. I remember Mr. Aronson's dedication and work ethic and we are all better people for having the privilege of being "around" him. And...the image of his grin and sense of humor will always make me smile! With sympathy and respect, Greg Voss

From Greg Voss

Hello Aronson family. Please accept my condolences. I was sitting in a hotel room reading the LaX Tribune online and stumbled upon Henry's obit. I contacted Bill E immediately, but he had already heard the knews from Leslie. Ironically, I am on my way down to Florida to see Bill. We will have a special drink together to toast Henry's wonderful life, and wonderful family. I think of you guys often. I live just a few blocks from Eagle Crest South. My thoughts are with you. Terry J. 608.317.3621 tjmiyagi@gmail.com

From Terry Johnson

Sorry for your loss. You had many years together. Day by day, not always better, but different. I still miss Dick every day & there are so many things I'd like help with. We had 61+ years and I'm grateful for some very wonderful memories and I know you feel the same. Take care and God's Blessings. Marilyn Fox

From Marilyn Fox

Mr. A was my favorite teacher in HS. His focus on making great music and growing great students was his forte. I will not forget the positive impact he had on me and my fellow robed and swing choir members. Thanks Mr A. Rest In Peace.

From David Schmidt Central HS '71

Central class of 1972. His student in choir and swing choir. Henry influenced my life immensely. He was a great man.

From David Franck

I was so sorry to hear of Mr. Aronson's passing. He was an amazing man who touched so many people with his passion for choral music. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a member of his Robed Choir during my years at Central HS from 1980-83. I can still remember the twinkle in his eyes as he was directing the choir. He will be greatly missed but his spirit lives on in his students. My sincere condolences to your family. ~ Ellen Ross

From Ellen Ross

Mr. Aronson was one of my favorite teachers. It was such a joy to have him as a teacher for chorus and choir throughout my time at Central High School (Class of 1970). He was greatly admired and loved.

From Mary (Boisen) Wilder

Speaking as a graduate and former member of the Central HS Robed and Swing Choirs, we celebrate the memory of a mentor that is a part of our collective life experience. Consider for a moment the ways in which we were touched by this one, unassuming man â€“ a high school music teacher and choir director. He brought us together, shared with us his heart and energy and love of music. He shaped our voices and their expression in song and ensemble. Then, on our graduation, and transcending even the wonderful musical memories we recall from that time, he sent us out into the world with experiences and skills which opened to us the awareness, experiences, opportunities and a richness of life that we can be grateful for and fully appreciate only in retrospect. Mr. A, your investment of energy and spirit and joy so many years ago lives on in each one of us today. We thank you and we extend to you and your family our joyous gratitude.

From Lee Anderson, Central HS Class of 1966

Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of our beloved Mr. A. He will be deeply missed.

From David Peterson

Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days ahead. Bud was such a special neighbor and friend and we have many wonderful memories to cherish of our time with him. He will be missed very much. Hugs and Lots of Love.

From Gary & Barb Bronson

I wish to extend my sympathy to Mar, his daughters, and their families. Mr. A was a bright shining star in my remembrances of Central high school. I had the good fortune to perform for the choir and swing choir all three years at Central. Mr. A cared very deeply about his students, taught us way more than just how to sing, and was a personality that vibrated in the halls of Central. I am just now listening to some of the madrigals that he so loved and had the swing choir sing. He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace Bud!

From Norm Farrington

Henry Aronson (Mr. A. to his adoring students) brought pleasure and joy to countless people through singing. I knew him in the mid-1960s as the director of the Robed Choir, Swing Choir, and Women's Chorus at Central High School in La Crosse WI. He was beloved by me and thousands of others. I saw him recently, and after all these years he still had a twinkle in his eye, a loving heart, and a passion and enthusiasm for music. Thanks, Mr. A., for some of my very best memories.

From Jean Linder

Very sorry for your loss. Bud was a great teacher and colleague. I worked with at Central High School for many years.

From Timothy J Fuss

The fall of 1956 was the beginning of a 60 year relationship with one of the "good" guys in life and in choral music. Respect for him and his contribution to Central's music will be with me always.

From Chuck & Gretchen Moen

THANK YOU MR A!.....from one of many students who's life you touched in a special way. Left Central 40 years ago, but will never forget you! Will miss you; glad for the memories though. Your journey on earth is done, but I'll see you again in heaven. To your family....I think you already know you had a pretty special guy; I'm praying for you all during this difficult time. God Bless you!

From Brenda (Smalley) Robinson

Like so many, I have fond memories of Mr. Aronson and Central's Robed Choir. I am thankful for him and his patient and excellent teaching every week when I sing at church. My condolences to his family on the loss of such a wonderful man.

From Lisa Lindesmith

Mr. Aronson's unabashed passionate love of music was one of the most important lessons of my life. I am grateful to have had the chance to be part of that music=love reality at Central. He was a wonderful person and role model.

From Cathy Van Maren

I can still picture the excitement in Bud's eyes when talking about his years at Central High School. He was a strong man imprisoned with a horrible disease that he fought everyday. He was a man with a lot of passion for life and family. He is now walking freely with the angels! Probably directing a huge "robed choir"! My love goes out to Mae, Lynn and rest of family. Find peace in knowing he is free from his pain. Love you Bud.

From Alice Wistrand

Mae & family. My sincere sympathies to you all. I was sorry to hear of Henry's passing in the newspaper. I'll be home in April and hope to say hello at that time.

From Jan Klein, Onalaska

Mr. Aronson was the most wonderful choir director. I have remembered him fondly since graduating from Central High School in 1962. We members of The Robed Choir were chosen in junior high tryouts and held to a high standard of performance. As members, we were proud to wear our robes and sing our best for Mr. Aronson. At Christmas time each year, Mr. Aronson held a caroling event. We gathered at the high school and then went to houses in the nearby neighborhood and sang outside their front doors. We were a large group and our carols were rousing! I am grateful to have had the pleasure of knowing and performing under the direction of our dear Mr. Aronson. We will share our memories of him when the Class of '62 gathers in La Crosse this July for our 55th Reunion.

From Kathie Rowe Wachholder

Dear Mae, I just heard about Bud's passing from my weekly phone call with Eric. Yemi and I send our deepest love and condolences to you and your family. I wish I was there to hug you and to tell you how important you and Bud have always been to our family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You are very special. We love you. God's blessings always.

From Sigurd Hanson, ETHIOPIA

My deepest sympathy to your family. Mr. A was my choir director in Robed Choir at Central High School. He was a great teacher and an inspiration to many of us. The last time I saw him was at First Lutheran Church when he came to watch the Robed Choir perform one Sunday. When I went over to talk to him, he still remembered me and my family. It was so great to talk with him and share some memories. It was an honor to be in Robed Choir and to have him as the choir director. Those days are part of my fondest memories of high school. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!

From Merri Dahlke Shupe

I am so sorry to hear of Buddy's passing. He was such a great, talented, and kind man! I loved working with him for many years, sharing his musical talents and his great sense of humor. When I retired a few years ago, he phoned me out of the blue to offer his congratulations, and it meant the world to me. He will be greatly missed; please accept my deepest condolences. Jim Hansen

From Jim Hansen

My sympathy to you in the death Of Bud !! He was a great man and will be missed.

From Helen Munson

Mae and Girls. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Bud. We have lost a great person. Please call if you need anything.

From Mike Fries

All three of our children...Beth, Andy and Rachel...thrived as musicians and as human beings due in large part to Mr. Aronson's example. We all cherish his memory.

From William and Louise Temte

Mr. Aronson was my homeroom teacher (room 212) and choir director while I was at Central - 1958 graduate. He was one of two special teachers I remember of my school years. He always had a kind way with students that was remembered as we grew older. Our thoughts are with your family at this time.

From Janet Berg Kulcinski

Condolences for