Michael Aljets

Michael Aljets, 70, passed away June 28, 2020 in Aztec, NM. He was born in Alton, IL to Fritz and Verline Aljets on April 4, 1950. He was a respiratory therapist for 40 years and taught respiratory therapy in Chicago, IL and Pueblo, CO. He worked at both Mercy Hospital and San Juan Regional Medical Center. He met his soulmate and wife of 47 years at Eastern Illinois University where he majored in philosophy. Michael was a profound thinker, curious explorer and engaging conversationalist. He loved to fish, hunt and could dance like Fred Astaire. His real passion was archaeology, specifically archaeoastronomy. Michael loved hiking in the canyons and gazing at the night skies. He looked forward to the solstices and equinoxes and took many photographs of pictographs and petroglyphs. Michael was the head of the San Juan Archaeological Society until it was disbanded. He also served on the Salmon Ruins Board of Directors for multiple terms. Michael is survived by his wife Diane, his parents Fritz and Verline, brothers Scott (Sue), Rocky (Bobbie) and James (Beth), sister Dawn, numerous nieces, nephews, dear friends and his beloved dog Chaco. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be Friday, July 10, 2020 at 10:00am at St. Joseph's Church in Aztec. Michael was a gentle sweet giant on this earth.