About

Meet Aaron. The person behind the legacy.

Aaron Daniel Olfert (May 30, 1977 – Feb 26, 2024) was a devoted husband, family member, friend and colleague who believed in people, looked out for others and brought people together.

Portrait of Aaron Daniel Olfert in a navy blazer, smiling

His story

Aaron & the reality of burnout.

Aaron standing on a trail, looking out toward snow-covered mountain peaks

A life built around people and passion.

Aaron was a devoted husband, uncle, friend and colleague who loved the outdoors – biking, hiking, paddling, golfing, recreational hockey and finding joy in the mountains with the people he cared about. He built his career in health and safety because he naturally looked out for others, earning his Occupational Health and Safety Certificate with Distinction from the University of Alberta.

Why ADO exists.

But Aaron’s story also holds a vital, hard-earned warning. He passed away in his sleep at the very young age of 46 due to heart failure – the ultimate result of putting his job before his health. For over a year, the signs were there, “go see a doctor”, but the action wasn’t.

ADO exists because your health is more important than your wallet, your title, or your output. We are here to dismantle the toxic badge of hustle culture. We weave grief support as a form of injury recovery, advocate for psychological and physical health alike, and remind professionals that honouring the body, rest and physical well-being is non-negotiable.

Cover of the book Dear Aaron by Trena Laine Olfert, showing a misty evergreen forest

Dear Aaron

Written by Trena Laine Olfert

A deeply personal tribute to Aaron, written by his wife, Trena. Through her words, she shares the love, memories and experiences that celebrate the person behind the legacy.

Explore the book (opens in a new tab)

Dear Aaron is an independently authored and sold book by Trena Laine Olfert. Book sales proceeds do not go to the Aaron Daniel Olfert Memorial Scholarship Society.

Carry It Forward.

ADO was created to carry forward the qualities that were so important in Aaron’s life: connection, opportunity, education, safety, well-being and community.