1924
Richard
2009
Richard Ahlstrom
November 22, 1924 — July 30, 2009
Richard Ward Ahlstrom, age 84, died of complications resulting from Multiple Systems Atrophy (MSA) on July 30, 2009. Ward, as he was known by all of his friends and family, was a life-long resident of the Kansas City metro area. He graduated from Olathe High School in 1942. He attended the University of Minnesota until WWII interrupted. Ward, a US Army veteran, was grievously wounded while fighting in the European Theater. He received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service. Upon his protracted recovery, he completed his electrical engineering degree at Finley Engineering College. He retired from Carter Waters after more than 40 years as Director of Purchasing. Throughout his life, he was active in the community. He helped found the KCK branch of the DAV and was an active member of the KC Purchasing Management Association. An avid sports fan, he supported the local teams and played sports most of his life. He was a feared left hand pitcher in men's fast pitch softball leagues. One of Ward's greatest passions in life was music. Well known for his mellifluous tenor voice, he sang at many events including a KC Royals game. He enjoyed being a member of the Kansas City Men's Metro Chorus. Ward was a dedicated member of St. Mark's Methodist Church for more than 50 years, and a stalwart member of the choir.
Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Joan; sisters Bette Tainter, and Shirlee Wilson. He is survived by sisters, Mary Randall and Sylvia Wendt; brother, Winton; daughter, Laura, and son-in law Duane, of Louisburg; grandchildren, Drew Norton and Zoe Ahlstrom; nephew Rob Wilson who was like a son to him, and many cherished nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the St. Mark's Endowment and Memorials Committee, or the Shy-Drager Syndrome/ Multiple Systems Atrophy Support Group http://www.shy-drager.org/index.htm. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, August 8, at St. Mark's Methodist Church, 6422 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, KS 66202; 913-722- 2310. Visitation will follow the service at the church. Inurnment Johnson County Memorial Gardens. Arr. D.W. Newcomer's Sons Johnson County Chapel, 11200 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS 66210; (913) 451-1860.
Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Joan; sisters Bette Tainter, and Shirlee Wilson. He is survived by sisters, Mary Randall and Sylvia Wendt; brother, Winton; daughter, Laura, and son-in law Duane, of Louisburg; grandchildren, Drew Norton and Zoe Ahlstrom; nephew Rob Wilson who was like a son to him, and many cherished nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the St. Mark's Endowment and Memorials Committee, or the Shy-Drager Syndrome/ Multiple Systems Atrophy Support Group http://www.shy-drager.org/index.htm. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, August 8, at St. Mark's Methodist Church, 6422 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, KS 66202; 913-722- 2310. Visitation will follow the service at the church. Inurnment Johnson County Memorial Gardens. Arr. D.W. Newcomer's Sons Johnson County Chapel, 11200 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS 66210; (913) 451-1860.
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