Aten was born on August 13, 1901, in Norvell, Michigan.

In 1950, Aten was an unsuccessful candidate in the Republican primary the position of United States Representative from Michigan's 2nd District.

[2] Aten was a member of the Kiwanis, the Freemasons, and of the Loyal Order of Moose.

[1] Aten died of a heart attack near his home on June 15, 1971, in Sandstone Township, Michigan.

He was interred at Roseland Memorial Gardens in Jackson, Michigan.