Lois Marie Ahrens

Dear Mom, (Lois Marie Sparks “Sparky” Ahrens), Thank you for everything. You were a “great gal, and an inspiration” to a lot of people. To me of course, you were Mom, and to brothers, John and Jim (Ahrens). You were Auntie Lo to our cousins in a way bigger than just Auntie. You were a beautiful Mom to kids at school who saw you when you came to take class pictures and attend PTA throughout all our school years. You were a fun gal amongst your pals at Emblem Clubs across the 48 states where you attended Conventions and at your home club, Emblem 216, here in Ballard. Ballard, your home for your whole life. Within walking distance of Ballard High, (class of 1945), the entire time. 97 years smiling, in color coordinated and accessorized outfits. 75 of those years together with Dad, John Marvin Ahrens. He also grew up in Ballard and went to Ballard High. As did we three Ahrens kids. So did your brother Harold, POW Korea, Sgt. Harold Sparks. That your prayers of 65 years for his return paid off when he was escorted home to internment at Tahoma Cemetery in 2016. Sister Barbara, and Harold spent summers with you at Golden Gardens where hopefully a bench will be set for others to find a moment to rest with you, Mom. Your 23 gallons of blood to the blood bank, 750 crazy quilt lap robes sewed on your sewing machine: to the American Legion Vets and others. Your countless sewing gifts, pantry always full of home canned goods, beautiful gardens, lovely home and Holidays, all put you at the top of the Honor Roll of our lives. Thank you, Mom. 97 years with us wasn’t enough. Angel Kisses are always welcome. Love Jo, Tina, Bill, Rene’, James, Colin, Donna, and many many others…including all your friends at Merrill Gardens.

Gratitude to family, friends, associates, neighbors, caregivers, Ballardites, Americans, to Life, for help to Mom along the way. ~Joanne Ahrens Hansen, Daughter

A Celebration of Life will be arranged at a future date. Please check back on this website for more information.