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Karl Martin Ahrens, 83, passed away April 1, 2025, at VNA Hospice House of Vero Beach, FL. He was born in Queens, NY and moved through Sparta, NJ and Gold Hill, NC to Vero Beach, FL
As a young man, he was a VP and member of the Bd. Of Dir. of the Sommelier Society in NY and became the Owner/Partner and President of Rock Oak Lodge in Sparta, NJ, and a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club in Sussex County. He was a 60-year member of the Masonic Lodge, and a Lt. Colonel with Civil Air Patrol, as well as a Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument with several flight schools over the years. Also, a builder/contractor, he custom-built a geodesic home where he and his wife resided in Gold Hill Airpark in NC. He rounded out his numerous interests/ventures as an owner/operator cross-country expediter for the White Glove Division of FEDEX Corp before retiring to Florida. He was a member of several flight organizations, including the QBs.
Mr. Ahrens is survived by his wife, Diane (Rhinesmith) Ahrens and son, Edward & daughter-in-law, Susan Eltringham, several nieces and nephews and their families, cousins Susan Hogan and Ellen Hall (husband: Shaun), brothers-in-law Thomas Longo and John Rhinesmith (wife: Marilyn), step-granddaughters, Brittani and Renee Bernstein, and former sister-in-law Kathy Wells.
He was predeceased by his parents, Karl and Ethel (Merrifield) Ahrens, his brother Gary, his nephew/Godson Gregory Ahrens, 3 step-daughters Dawn, Deborah and Danielle Eltringham, sister-in-law Jean Longo, aunt/Godmother Lillian Hynes, uncle Ed Merrifield and their spouses, cousins Patrick and Mickey Hynes, Guy and Tracy Merrifield and brother-in-law Paul Hogan.
An avid golfer, a man of few words, he will be sadly missed by all who knew, admired and loved him.
In their grief, the family expresses gratitude to the entire staff at Cleveland Clinic for their efforts and care the many times they encountered Mr. Ahrens, and
to the staff of VNA Hospice House of Vero Beach for their gracious care as they attended him through his journey from this life. God bless you all.
Memorial contributions can be made to:
VNA Hospice House of Vero Beach, 920 37th Place, Vero Beach, FL 32960 Or
Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, 1000 36th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960-6592
Cremation and aerial scattering of remains are being handled by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach, FL, with the gratitude of the family.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Barb - Friend
April 8, 2025, 2:57 pm
He was an amazing man and very proud to call my friend and Friday night date at the Moose along with his beautiful wife, Diane. I will miss you “My Karl”
Karen Obermeier - Friend
April 9, 2025, 11:28 am
We will miss Karl. He and Franzl are the reason my husband Kurt came to the US. That was 1965. He was godfather to our daughter Michelle. We had may laughs and a few tears over the years.
Jan McDougald - Friend
April 9, 2025, 1:12 pm
What an interesting and impactful life that Karl lived. I’m so glad that we were all neighbors at Gold Hill. My thoughts will be with you Diane during the days ahead. May you find solace in the memories you shared with Karl. He was a good man.
Patsy - Friend
April 10, 2025, 9:07 am
Karl was a very sweet man whom I only knew a short time, but I am blessed for having known him. He is missed, for sure! Prayers continue for Diane.
Don - Brother
April 10, 2025, 8:48 pm
I met Karl at CAP and found we had much in common. He was the consummate host and always had a kind word or thoughtful advice when needed. He was generous with his friendship, time, and vast knowledge of flying. He was also a dear Masonic Brother. I miss his laugh and Texas sized Manhattans.
Liane - Friend
April 11, 2025, 11:10 pm
Diane, I am so sorry for your loss, he was such a great husband and you were a beautiful couple. I wish I was there to give you a big hug! All my love, Liane.
Jean Marmo - Friend and Co-worker
April 15, 2025, 11:14 pm
Diane, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jean