Antoinette Ahrens

Antoinette “Toni” Ahrens, 87, of Catonsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of December 28 after a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Buffalo, New York, to William Wood and Helen (Buchwald) Wood, Toni was a deeply determined woman who built a rich and meaningful life through hard work, curiosity, and a dedication to the people she loved.

In Buffalo, Toni found early success as a real estate agent, skillfully supporting and raising her three children, Gary, Paul, and Gail. In 1978, she moved to Maryland, where she met her husband, Rudolf “Rudi” Lamy. Married for 34 years, Toni and Rudi shared a partnership rooted in mutual growth, love of family, and a shared belief in lifelong learning. That love of learning culminated in a milestone Toni held especially dear: earning her Master of Arts degree. In 1998, she went on to publish Design Makes a Difference: Shipbuilding in Baltimore, 1795–1835, a testament to her intellectual curiosity.

Above all else, Toni’s heart belonged to her family. She was a beloved mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend, whose warmth, strength, and spirit created countless treasured memories. The depth of her relationships was built in the small moments, weekly bridge games, fruitcakes handed out at Christmas, and dinners shared over Toni’s homemade pasta sauce. Her presence will be felt during every Buffalo Bills game and each Fourth of July celebration.

Toni was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolf Lamy, and her son, Gary Ahrens. She is survived by her children, Paul Ahrens (Barbara) and Gail Ahrens (George Beer), her cherished grandchildren, Eden Ahrens Roberts (Timothy) and Andrew Beer (Anna), and her great-grandchildren, Elle, Tripp, and Oaklynn. Toni is also survived by her beloved niece and nephews, Stephen Sullivan (Carolyn), Aeryk Sullivan, Paula Lachowicz Campbell (Colin), and Anthon Lachowicz (Wendy). While Toni’s passing has left a hole in our hearts, we are grateful that she now rests in peace. Her kindness and generosity will live on in the many lives she touched.