Francis Ahking

Francis Ahking, 74, of East Hartford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully in the presence of family following a long battle with cancer. Francis was born in Mauritius to Henry Ahking and Chun Sheong Leong. At a young age, he moved to Hong Kong, where he attended the Diocesan Boys' School and formed lifelong friendships that he cherished throughout his life. He later came to the United States to pursue higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, a Master of Arts in Economics from Binghamton University, and a Ph.D. in Economics from Virginia Tech.

Francis devoted 42 years of his professional life to the University of Connecticut, where he served as an Associate Professor of Economics. His research and teaching focused on the areas of Monetary Economics, Macroeconomics, and International Finance.

Outside of his professional life, Francis found joy in traveling, particularly throughout eastern Asia, where he participated in summer teaching programs and embraced opportunities for cultural exchange. He was a devoted supporter of UConn Huskies men's and women’s basketball, and he enjoyed experiencing international cuisine, always eager to explore new cultures through food. In his years after retirement, he enjoyed staying active and enjoying friendships at the fitness center at the East Hartford Senior Center. Francis was a devoted husband and father. He took great pride in being involved in his children’s lives, supporting activities such as Boy Scouts, youth sports, and school and church projects. He was a long-time devoted parishioner of St. Christopher Church, East Hartford.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Paula Chieruzzi; his two adult children who live nearby; and his four siblings, Therese Dos Santos, Henry Ahking (Cissy), Peter Ahking (Michelin), and Marie Gottschalk (Peter). He is also remembered by extended family, friends, colleagues, and the many students whose lives he influenced. He leaves behind a legacy of scholarship, mentorship, and quiet kindness that touched the lives of many.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many medical professionals who cared for Francis over the years. They are especially thankful to his physicians, Sarah DiRamio, Dr. Dahhan, Dr. Thumar, Dr. Cecchini, Mandy DeMerchant, and the dedicated staff of the Yale Phase 1 Clinic, Smilow Cancer Center 12th floor, and Hartford Hospital Conklin 3rd floor for their compassion, professionalism, and exceptional care.

Francis’ family will receive relatives and friends on Monday (March 30, 2026) at the D’Esopo East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford from 10:30 am – 11:30 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 12 pm at St. Mary’s Church of North American Martyrs Parish, 1588 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06108. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Francis’ name may be made to St. Christopher Food Pantry, in care of North American Martyrs Parish, 15 Maplewood Ave., East Hartford, CT 06108. For on-line expressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.desopoeh.com