I worked with John many years ago, the middle 1980's, in Magnolia, where John was a Store Director.  I am compelled to write something about John, even though I only knew him a couple of years, but worked beside him daily those years.  He was among only a few that I really connected with, humor mainly--John had an extremely dry wit, and would say anything to me for a laugh, which he usually got back, and then some.  I can't really repeat some of the funny moments on this page, kind of rated, "R", but John was a really sensitive man, it was quite obvious, his love for his then young child, Adrienne, maybe 2 or 3 at the time, was obvious....as was his deep connection with his wife, whom I met on a few occasions.  John shared a deep affinity for music, a passionate fan of The Rolling Stones, while I had my own passion for music as well. John was a massive golf fan and player, he revered Jack Nicklaus, and was so ecstatic after Nicklaus's 1986 Masters win...it was tough not to like John.  I will recount a story he told me--many of his stories I remember vividly to this day--once, he, Janis, and young Adrienne, were on the phone speaking with grandparents (if I recall correctly) that were in Hawaii at the time.  Adrienne wanted so badly to go see the grandparents, that she insisted the John and the family go see them in Hawaii.  John and Janis explained patiently to Adrienne that they didn't have the money at the time, to  fly to Hawaii and visit.  Adrienne began crying bitterly, and repeating, "I want the money, I want the money!!!" .  Well, the way John told this story slayed me.  I called John once, years later, he meant that much to me, we had a brief, cordial conversation, but never had the opportunity to see him again.  To his children, my hat is tipped, and my heart is very, very heavy, having just learned of his passing--too soon.  You were lucky children to have both of those folks as parents. I am so sorry.  
Sincerely,
Mitch Rath (Sue, Ty, Hunter)
Kirkland

John was my manager for several years where I worked, and it was a pleasure to having him as my superior.
My deepest prayers to all of the family and close friends.

So very sorry to hear of my cousin's passing, really quite a shock.  Rest in peace John, your trials on this earth are over.  My thoughts and prayers go out to your children who will keep your memory alive. 

A lifetime dear cousin I  unjust learned, like a kick in gut.   I m.  Stunned R.I.P. eternal love, chai.

John  & I met when we were on the Elks Little League 'A' baseball team when we were 10.  We loved the game but weren't that great so we sat on the bench together most of the season.  We had a lot of fun though, our senses of humor and love of the Rolling Stones bonded us for life.. he is my brother. We shared many fun and sometimes outrageous times growing up! I will miss seeing him and hearing his laugh, but he is forever in my heart!!! 
RIP my dear friend... "and I won't forget to put roses on your grave."
Your brother forever,
Randy 

John always had a friendly hello everytime I went to Bartells!  I also have all good memories of my years working with Jan at the YMCA , sharing recipes and stories.  In fact John would say, "when he saw me it made him think of Macho Dip" and we would laugh!  Prayers for Nick and Adrienne.... I remember them as far back as their preschool years at the YMCA and all the years at Hope Lutheran School.
With sincerity and fondness,
Jackie Bailey

OBITUARY

John Raymond Ahrenius

18 July, 1955 – 24 January, 2021

Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery

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