Aaron Daniel Gould

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Aaron Daniel Gould, who left us in his 45th year. He is remembered as a devoted family man, gifted teacher, and master problem solver. A memorial/celebration of life is planned for 30 September 2021 at 3 p.m., with services to be held at California Cremation & Burial 5880 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92115.

Born in Hillsborough County, FL, Aaron grew up with a knack for recognizing patterns, compiling data, and finding solutions to complex problems. He put these skills to good use when he joined the Navy at the age of 21. During his time in service, Aaron received the highly coveted Navy Achievement Medal, an award extended to only the most outstanding personnel each year. He was also presented with the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, awarded for participating in operations of assistance for friendly foreign nations.

In 2004, Aaron decided it was time to expand his horizons by going back to school. He set out to become an electrical engineer, enrolling first at Grossmont Community College before going on to study at San Diego State University. It was while Aaron was finishing his senior project and working part-time that he met his future wife, Rhoda. The two hit it off instantly while playing World of Warcraft. He was her tank, and she was his healer. For two years the pair made it part of their routine to game together each night. When it finally came time to meet in 2008, Rhoda couldn’t find Aaron’s apartment, so they picked a Ralph’s grocery store to share their first in-person encounter. The story goes that Aaron kissed Rhoda in the floral department. Later that year, Aaron graduated from San Diego State University Magna cum laude, achieving a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering.

Aaron was barely out of school when he landed his first job but ultimately opted to join SPAWAR for the work-life balance. When it came down to it, he wanted to plan for a family with Rhoda. The couple moved to Pacific Beach to be closer to Aaron’s work and, in 2009, adopted Abby. Aaron was a thoughtful partner who always planned what was best for the family. Every activity was an opportunity for him to teach. He would drown his family in PowerPoint presentations, spreadsheets, and flowcharts – no matter what the event. These skills came in handy at SPAWAR, where Aaron became Lead Engineer and received multiple Exemplary Service Awards. He also received a handwritten commendation from Senior Executive Service of the Department of Navy, USA. When he wasn’t working, Aaron gave wonderful shoulder, back, neck, and foot massages. He was a loving father to his stepson, Christian, patiently teaching not just academics but also life skills and the ways of adulthood. Aaron loved teaching and would have made a great teacher for he was engaging, charming, and had a sharp wit. He subscribed to the Socratic method of teaching and knew a lot about music, pop culture, gaming, politics, and religion.

In early 2014, Aaron and Rhoda moved to a cheaper apartment and started playing a new game together – League of Angels. They had a blast. Then, on the morning of 28 October 2014, Aaron and Rhoda married in the Pacific Highway Courthouse in a short and sweet outdoor ceremony facing the ocean. The couple also adopted Avery at this time. The following year, Aaron went back to school to earn a master’s degree in electrical, electronics and communications, with a focus on networks and virtualization technologies. In 2016, Aaron and Rhoda bought their first house in La Mesa, CA. It was an exciting time for the family, full of hope for the future. The love and laughter that Aaron brought to those who knew him will not be forgotten. His memory lives on eternally in our hearts.

Aaron is survived by his wife Rhoda, stepson Christian (Ian), mother Susan, and fur babies Abby and Avery.

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