Aaron Fackelmann Weckstein

Aaron Fackelmann Weckstein, a dedicated environmentalist as well as a beloved son, brother and friend, died unexpectedly on Friday, Oct. 2, at his home in Takoma Park. He was 25. Aaron was a senior research analyst at Karner Blue Capital in Bethesda, a socially responsible investment fund where he helped identify investment-worthy companies that improve the sustainability of nature, conserve the environment and better the welfare of animals. He was a 2018 summa cum laude graduate of Temple University where he majored in environmental studies with a minor in general business studies, and a 2013 graduate of Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring. At Temple, Aaron was the 2016-2017 Student Government Executive Board Member of the Year. As the director of Grounds and Sustainability for Temple Student Government, he worked on environmental protections as part of the university's Sustainability Task Force. In 2017, Aaron won a Udall Foundation scholarship for leadership, public service, and commitment to issues related to the environment. Before attending the university, Aaron was part of a youth group at the Washington Ethical Society that traveled several times to New Orleans to help rebuild homes destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. He was avidly engaged in outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking and kayaking. Beyond all that, Aaron was a remarkably warm, empathetic, insightful, open-minded and emotionally generous young man who valued his family and friends as they valued him. Survivors include his sister, Julia Fackelmann Weckstein of Takoma Park, brother, Brant Fackelmann Weckstein of Washington, father, Paul Weckstein of Washington, and mother, Kathleen Fackelmann of Takoma Park. He also leaves behind an entourage of loyal friends who have been with him since childhood and will miss his zany humor and reliable support. A graveside service at Parklawn Cemetery, 12800 Veirs Mill Rd, Rockville, MD 20853, will be conducted Saturday at noon under COVID-19 safety precautions, including limiting the size of the gathering, the wearing of face masks and social distancing. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org) or Friends of the National Arboretum (fona.org)