John Franklin Aadland

John Franklin Aadland, age 64, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026 at his beautiful home overlooking Mount Timpanogos surrounded by his family and dear friends in Heber City, Utah.

Born on April 26, 1962 in Portland, Oregon, John lived a life marked by service, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 27 years, where he earned the respect and admiration of those who served beside him. John was based at Travis AFB, CA where he started as a C-5 mechanic, before becoming a FAA commercial pilot, certified flight instructor and ultimately attending the Air Force Flight Engineer School. Most memorably, he flew his beloved KC-10 Tanker for multiple combat deployments, earning the U.S Air Force Meritorious Service Medal and Air Force Commendation Medal.  His commitment to his country remained a source of pride throughout his life.

Personally, John built a life centered on family, friendship, and the natural world he loved so deeply. Growing up John was raised in a working-class family and as a young toddler his parents would have him sit between them on a triumph motorcycle traveling throughout the Oregon coast region. John spent his youth skiing, hiking, camping and fishing; and summers filled with surfing, riding skateboards and BMX riding.

As an adult John was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and joy in skiing, biking, sailing, camping, and hiking. John treasured taking loved ones on outdoor adventures whether spending time in the mountains, the air, or on the water, John generously encouraged others through his zest for life, adventurous spirit, and his smile. John continued to work as an elite ski instructor and was named Park City Mountain Ski Resort Instructor Of The Year for the 2023-2024 season.

Above all, John was proud to watch his son Drew grow into the man he has become, a source of constant pride and happiness.  John found true love when he met and married the love of his life, Gladys, in a fairy tale wedding on the shores of Lake Tahoe. Together they shared love, companionship, endless adventures, their love for the outdoors, their Bernese Mountain Dogs and many treasured memories.  Their home was always a gathering spot for their friends, that really were/are their family, during any season of the year and especially over the holidays! 

One of his friends said it best, “I will never be able to ski without thinking of you skiing ahead of me on a glorious powder day and trying fruitlessly to imitate your glorious technique".  Gladys shared that John was able to ski 11 days this past season and he said "I feel so free when I ski"! 

John will be remembered for his strength, resilience, discipline, relentless optimism, kindness, humor, loyalty, work ethic, and generosity. He touched the lives of many through his wisdom, compassion and willingness to help others. John served as a part of many community organizations throughout his life including, the Airport Community Advisory Team (ACAT) in Truckee, CA and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee in Incline Village, CA.

His presence touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.

A Military Honors Ceremony and Innichement will be held September 12th, 2026 at 10:00 in the morning at Heber City Columbarium 680 North 550 East, Heber City UT, followed by a Celebration of Life at noon by invitation.

In lieu flowers, the family asks instead that you make a donation to The Huntsman Cancer Institute in John’s name.  The link to donate can be found below.