The Seattle community is grieving the death of Aaron M. Fandel, who died on October 7, 2025, at the age of 27. Authorities have confirmed that the circumstances of his death have been ruled a suicide.
Born on August 7, 1998, in Seattle, Aaron was known for his leadership, compassion, and commitment to others throughout his life.
He attended TOPS School in the North Capitol Hill/Eastlake area and later graduated from Ballard High School in 2016, where he played varsity football for four years. During his junior and senior seasons, he was recognized as a King County All-Metro Team Offensive Lineman.
Aaron continued his education at Washington State University (WSU), earning degrees in political science and criminal justice, along with a business minor. A dedicated member of the Sigma Pi fraternity, he took on active leadership roles, eventually serving as president of WSU’s Interfraternity Council. During his college years, he also completed a congressional internship in Washington, D.C., with U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers.
After graduating in 2020, Aaron began his career at Federated Insurance, where he quickly stood out for his work ethic and professionalism. Working with clients throughout Washington—including Bothell, Monroe, Wenatchee, and Chelan—he received several national sales awards in recognition of his achievements.
While on a work assignment in Owatonna, Minnesota, Aaron met Candace Goodsell. Their relationship grew into a deep partnership, and the two married on August 23, 2024, in Snohomish, Washington. They shared a love of travel, visiting destinations across the United States and abroad, including Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Maldives for their honeymoon.
Aaron was known for his vibrant personality, welcoming spirit, and ability to bring people together. He was fondly remembered for organizing memorable gatherings, especially pool parties and themed celebrations at his family’s home in Magnolia. Friends and family recall him as a devoted husband, son, and brother—someone whose warmth, respectfulness, and sincerity left a lasting impression.
He is survived by his wife, Candace Fandel (née Goodsell) of Bothell; his parents, John and Mona Fandel of Seattle; and his brothers, David Fandel of Reno, Nevada, and Andrew Fandel of Seattle.
After Aaron passed away, a Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 2–5 p.m. at Shingletown Saloon, located at 2016 Market Street in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. All who knew Aaron are welcome to attend and share memories.
In recognition of his dedication to leadership and fraternity life, Aaron created the Aaron Fandel Interfraternity Man of the Year Scholarship at WSU, which continues to support future student leaders.
The family asks that contributions be made to this scholarship through the WSU Foundation in place of flowers.
Although Aaron’s life ended far too soon, his compassion, leadership, and positive influence will live on. His loved ones hope his legacy continues to encourage and uplift young leaders across Washington and beyond.
