James Gerhard Ahler

James Gerhard Ahler Died peacefully at 86 years of age at Maplewood Rehabilitation Center on March 15, 2024 surrounded by loved ones. Preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Elisabeth (Bernert) Ahler, brothers Edward Ahler (Audrey) and Fr. Richard Ahler, SJ, and sisters Mary Van Beek (Douglas) and Regina Ahler. Survived by his wife, Cynthia Laramy Ahler and step-children Catherine Evans Semlak (Patrick), Charles Evans (Colleen Brown), Karen Evans (partner David Clemmens), Andrew Evans and step-grandsons Alexander Lundblad and William Hanson. Also survived by former wife, Mary Kirschling Ahler and their children Philip "P.J." Ahler (Deborah Dow Ahler) and Melinda "Mindy" Ahler (Paul Thompson) and granddaughters Michelle Ahler-Johnson (Christopher Johnson), Megan Ahler, Maryon Ahler Dykema (Cole) and great-granddaughter Evelyn Ahler-Johnson and a large extended family. Jim was born (December 10, 1937) and raised in Burlington, WI. He graduated from St. Mary's High School where he was recognized early on for his leadership skills through various school activities including band, plays and debate team. After high school he entered the US Army where he was trained as a simultaneous German interpreter. Jim earned his undergraduate and masters degrees in Sociology from Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. He attended the University of Chicago graduate school before taking a Sociology teaching position at the then College of St. Thomas in 1967. He retired from the University of St. Thomas in 2000. During his career at St. Thomas, he was proud of his time as chair of the Sociology Department and involvement in the founding of HECUA (Higher Education Consortium for Urban Affairs). Through the tumultuous 60s and 70s, during his tenure as president of the Catholic League, he was recognized as a leader and spokesman for social change and a champion for civil rights for Catholics and other populations who were the targets of discrimination. He had a knack for recognizing the talents of others and steering them to areas where they would shine. In his spare time he sang with Nativity of our Lord and Maternity of Mary Choirs where he performed many times as a tenor soloist and met his soul-mate Cindy. Highlights of his liturgical singing included two European tours and culminated in singing at the main alter at the Vatican. He also spent time clowning as "the Professor" and was known to have a wonderful sense of humor which continued to be part of his persona right up to his death. He was close to his children and grandchildren and was very proud of his new great-granddaughter. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Alzheimer's Association. Mass of Christian Burial Friday, April 5, 2024 at 10:30 AM at NATIVITY of OUR LORD CATHOLIC CHURCH; 1938 Stanford Ave., St. Paul. Visitation 9:30 - 10:30am, luncheon to follow. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery 9:30am Monday, April 8th.

Tributes

James Gerhard Ahler

December 10, 1937 - March 15, 2024

Tributes

James Gerhard Ahler

December 10, 1937 - March 15, 2024

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