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Michael J. Ahern

Michael Ahern Obituary

Michael J. Ahern, 50, of Phx, AZ, passed away October 29, 2003. Michael was born in Chicago, Illinois on Nov. 7, 1952. He joins his parents Coletta J. and Maurice J. Ahern. He is survived by his
sister, Mary Kraus (Joe), brothers, Joseph L. (Dodi), Robert J., Christopher J. (Jenny). He is also survived by: 3 nephews, Stephen J. Ahern, Matthew Kraus, Andrew Kraus, and niece, Megan Kraus; his Aunt Donna Lachner (Uncle Jim) and Aunt Lucille Ahern. Mike was a graduate of Brophy & Gonzaga University. His passion & devotion was his teaching & coaching careers. Mike had spent 25 years
as a teacher & coach at St. Mary's High School, here in Phoenix. Visitation 4-9 P.M., with a Rosary at 7 P.M., Wednesday, November 5th, St. Mary's Basilica Catholic Church, 231 N. 3rd St. Funeral Mass 2 P.M., Thursday, November 6th St. Mary's Basilica. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the St. Mary's Scholarship Program, 2525 N. 3rd St., Phx, AZ 85004 or AZ Cystic Fibrosis Assoc., 2345 E. Thomas Rd., Phx, AZ 85016.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic from Nov. 2 to Nov. 4, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Ahern

85 Entries

Jack Douglas

October 28, 2021

I see where it is an anniversary of Michael's death. I believe that is what I read. It says a lot that all these many years later, people still care and they still have good memories of him. What is the purpose of life? Well, to love God and to learn to love others. As a true friend, Michael was someone easy to love and respect. He cared about others and had a positive impact on many lives. That is what we all should do. God bless you, Michael. I still remember many of the good times we all had together at Gonzaga University. I always will.

Jack Douglas

June 5, 2021

I remember Mike from when we were both at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington in the early 1970s. He was a kind, fair man and a good friend to anyone who knew him. He was also a fan of the Phoenix Suns. I played on his intramural basketball team and felt honored to be asked. Mike, God bless him, was considerate of others and I always felt he was a true and loyal friend. There was nothing fake about Mike. He is one of the people I met in this life that I sure hope to meet again in Heaven when I pass on. Mike, you will always be a friend and as a friend, you will always have a place in my heart where I hold the memories and love I have for the people I met that I cared the most about. Of all the great folks I met at Gonzaga, Mike will always be on the short list of the best of the best.

Scott Mills

April 29, 2004

Coach,

I am saddened today to find that I have lost a friend from this earth. It's been a busy year and I'd been meaning to get in touch. I sent you an e-mail and it was returned due to an error. I checked out the St. Mary's website and didn't see your name. I e-mailed Pat Ferrell and he shared with me the news. I feel like a fool, but I know you understand.

You scooped me up when I was a lost Hoosier looking for a basketball team to coach in 1990. I had three great years in the St. Mary's program with you as a guide. Thank you!! I'm sorry I didn't check in earlier to see how you were doing. You taught me another lesson, keep in touch with those people you care about. I think of your visit to Spencer, IN in 1994 during Christmas Break. You road tripped with my freshman team to South Bend to play in a tournament. You even got to visit Notre Dame. Best of all is the photo of you with Amber on you lap. You let her devour your French Fries. lol

I got to see you in 2001...twice. That was great.

I was with you when you turned 40, Harvey's was the place. I turn 40 in August and hoped you could share it with me. I'll have a "rules meeting" in your honor and offer a toast. Sorry I missed you, but I'll never forget you! Take care coach!! Your friend, Scott.

PS. Thank you, to the Ahern family for keeping this site going so people like me could share my thoughts.

December 13, 2003

I miss you every day

Jesse Tapia

November 20, 2003

If I could have seen you one last time, it would have felt just as amzaing as it did when I graduated. I promised you would teach my children and grandchildren and now I can't keep that promise. Thank you for being a wonderful teacher and a wonderful friend. I remember telling you that I would flunk on purpose just to be in your class again and you told me you give me A's just to get me out of your class. You taught me about history. You taught me about how throwing assignments across the room was more efficient then passing them out. You taught me that sitting in your chair was the most annoything anyone could do. You helped me realise what an eskimo I was when everyone was freezing in class and I was hot. I hope you have a peaceful rest in heaven and I hope you take the Singing Billy Bass we bought with you. I will surely miss the conversation we had about cannibalism and constant "No Crying" and paper ball wars we would say were reinactments of real American wars when we would get caught. The one thing you didn't teach me was how to make the best bath tub brew, you were supposed to do that when I turned 21. Well, am I still grateful for eveything you did for me. You were the best,and I will always, always remember you. I hope that I will live up to your expectations and I hope you won't tell anyone in heaven how weird this eskimo was. I hope to see you heaven someday. Tell God I said for you to meet me at the gate. And then we can make some bath tub brew. Miss you always. Jesse.

Kathleen Heggum

November 20, 2003

Dear Mr. Ahern,

I'm not exactly sure what to write. Nearly five years ago you taught me about history and how to drive. To this day I still tell people about the style of paper we had to write for your class. Those guidelines I received from you have gotten me through college and more. I can't even fathom how alone you must have felt, but you should know how many lives you've affected as the teacher and man that you were. Thank you for all your lessons, I will continue to learn from you forever.

Kathleen Heggum, SMHS Class of 2000

Rachelle Velasquez

November 17, 2003

Dear Mr. Ahern,

I know that it's taken me awhile to write but to tell you the truth I am still in shock! I can't believe that you are actually gone. I will always remember all the good times in your class and watching all those wonderful movies but nothing will ever top the Sandlot. I also remember when Ryan Shannon and Daniel Mendoza were fooling around in your class and put a HUGE hole in your wall. Man were you maaaaad. lol. I also remember how happy you were the day after we won state for basketball, even though it wasn't football or baseball. Well Coach, you are now watching over ALL of the KNIGHTS. Just make sure that we ALL stay out of trouble. Oh and can you do me a favor and tell my Uncle Tom (#11) I said HI! ONCE A KNIGHT ALWAYS A KNIGHT!! CLASS OF 2001!!

'72,'91,'99,'04

November 13, 2003

Mr Ahern, My kids never had you as a coach but did hear your stories and how you liked to teaching the 60's era. Never a bad word was said about you. My father knew you best as a Coach. Now you and other KNIGHTS can look down upon us all and really talk about sports and kids.

I wonder what Horace has to say?

You will never be forgotten!

Anthony Delahanty

November 11, 2003

Being in the Portland, Oregon area, I rely on other Class of 1983 emails on such notices like our 10 year and 20 year reunions to keep me up to date with St. Mary's happenings.

I was told about this terrible situation and am very shocked. Mr Ahern was my drivers ed teacher. He treated me well and respected me unconditionally. Our acquaintance was brief, but powerful.

Jim Essert had a great experience with him that I could have only dreamed of having with Mr. Ahern. Jim is a great, successful guy whom I have admired as well. I am happy he had such kind words for Mr. Ahern.

God Bless you, and hopefully Fr. Blaise met you with open arms.

Sincerely

Anthony Delahanty

Class of 1983

Laurie Bishop

November 11, 2003

Dear Ahern Family,

I was truly saddened to hear of the loss of Mr. Ahern. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Mr. Ahern was a wonderful teacher and has touched so many lives, his memory will live on. SMHS class of '82.

Julie Wise

November 10, 2003

Thanks for all the great times. Rest in Peace.

Paige Prenovost '03

November 10, 2003

Mr. Ahern~

I was never blessed to have you as a teacher. All of my friends spoke of you as a great man. You were an ispiration to my brother, beyond belief. I feel bad for the future knights, the ones who never get expierence your presence on campus. You helped teach us the meaning of being a family. Your honesty, loyalty, and respect as well as your great sense of humor will be greatly missed.

To the Ahern Family:

Thank you for letting us barrow Mr. Ahern for the last 25 years.He is an inspiration to many and will be in our hearts and memories.

Thanks Mr. Ahern, You are a hero to many.

Darcy McDonald

November 8, 2003

Dear Ahern Family,

I have been reading the entries in this guest book and am so overcome by the love and pride all who knew Michael felt for him. You must feel so proud that he touched the lives of so many young people so positively. We should all strive to impact others the way Michael did. I didn't know Michael well, but he just always seemed to be such a good man. All of you siblings and your parents seemed so proud when you spoke of him.

Your loss must feel so great right now. I am deeply sorry for you, and hope that you are comforted by your memories and time. All my love and prayers to all of you,

Darcy (Nelson) McDonald

'92 knight

November 7, 2003

Coach Ahern

You were the first person to treat us like young men instead of little boys, that is why we played our hearts out for you. You once said "We may not be the biggest or the strongest, but we have a firm conviction we are the best". With you leading us we were the best, we would have followed you anywhere. Thank you coach, and may God bless you and your family. " I BELIEVE "

Jessica Knox

November 6, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

You were one of the greatest teachers I have ever had. There was something about your teaching that really made me want to learn. You made such a big impact on my life in many different ways. I will never forget you throwing the stapler across the room, or the time you made us write about why we should pay attention in pre-algebra so we wouldn't have to work at McDonalds. I was blessed to have you in not only history class, but pre-algerba and drivers-ed. You are an inspiration to many in so many different ways. Mr. Ahern, I will never forget you, you will always remain in my heart. I am sorry I broke your #1 rule, it is hard when you lose such a profound man. May you rest in peace.

Mr. Ahern's Family - I am very sorry about your loss, he is great man and will be missed. May God Bless you, you will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Jessica Knox (Class of 2003)

Michelle Hightower

November 6, 2003

Mr. Ahern was the greatest teacher. He was never fake about life. He was real and honest about everything. I will always remember talking with him and Mrs. Farrell every morning about how he dreaded seeing me in his first hour class every morning. He made me laugh all the time. I will always miss the "CHEESE GRITS". He will always be a hero to me. I miss you and will always carry the laughter and love that was shared in my heart. May God be with you and so will I.

St. Mary's Mom

November 6, 2003

Thank you Coach Ahern for being a coach, teacher and most importantly a true friend to my son during his years at St. Mary's.

My sincere thoughts and prayers to the Ahern family. Such a loss for both your family and the St. Mary's family.

Sonya (Salazar) Preciado 1981

November 6, 2003

It's been years since I have graduated. I read all of the great memories your loved

ones have written. And I have stepped back in time. My heart feels sad and happy all at the same time. You and me had a extraordinary relationship the 4 years I went to St. Mary's. And yes like all the others you made a remarkable impact in my life. I thank you for that. After all these years you are still the same man I remember. I

am glad I can take all my memories and relive them as I sit here. My prayers and love go to your family and friends to get through these hard times. Once again you have touched my heart............

Morris Delgado, Jr - Class of 86

November 6, 2003

Our prayers are with the family. WE WILL MISS YOU COACH AHERN. We were undeafeated freshmen year 1983. The memories will never be forgotten!!

Chris Boling

November 6, 2003

Mr.Ahern,

25 years of your life was dedicated to serving and helping other by giving them knowledge, a coach and a friend, I will never forget you, and what you have tought me. Your #1 rule which I'm sure is still written on the white board in your room is one that is hard to keep, I'm sorry. Rest in peace Mr.Ahern, you've earned it.

ST. MARYS MOM CLASS OF 2005/2006

November 5, 2003

WE FIX OUR EYES NOT ON WHAT IS SEEN, BUT ON WHAT IS UNSEEN. FOR WHAT IS SEEN IS TEMPORAY, BUT WHAT IS SEEN IS ETERNAL.

2corinthians4:18 NIV

THANK YOU COACH!

FOR BEING PART OF MY YOUNG BOYS LIVES AS THEY BECAME YOUNG MEN.

I KNOW NOW WHAT "I BELIEVE" &"NO CRYING" MEAN.

MAY THE ANGELS WELCOME YOU TO PARADISE.

The Popis Family

November 5, 2003

Our hearts are heavy to hear of your loss. Michael's light shined on so many people. Mary, Joe and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Aaron Rideau 2001

November 5, 2003

Coach-

We had some great time in US History and in Drivers ED. Sinklaire and I would tell on other people who were sleeping in class just so we could get extra points, beacause we never did our homework. Thank you for all the memories, in sports and in class. Much love Aaron, Nicole, Jaxon Rideau.

Christine Gore

November 5, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

You will be missed. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

Christine

Jesse Murillo

November 5, 2003

My deepest sympathys cannot express the sadness I feel this day. My fondest memories include Mr.Ahern and shall forever live in my heart.

Knights class of 1981

Sandi

November 5, 2003

What a terrible loss the people of the St. Mary's community are feeling right now. We have lost an incredible man with a great deal to share. I feel honored to have known him and learned from him. I think we all feel that way. God Bless.

Dina Romo

November 5, 2003

Mr Ahern, may you find peace in the company of your loved ones and with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For every KNIGHT, there awaits a bright new day. (SMHS Class of 1980)

Jessica Class of 2000

November 4, 2003

I'm not sure what to write, but I know that I can't stop here without saying something. I have many fond memories of sitting in US History watching all those movies (and trying not to get caught sleeping!), and I'll NEVER forget my driving test!! I just want your family to know that you and all of them are in my thoughts and prayers, and I hope that they can get through this time with the love, grace, and faith, and with the support that our St.Mary's family will be sure to provide.

God Bless

Sandi

November 4, 2003

Thanks Mr. Ahern for being a devoted teacher to my sons Christopher (02) and Robert (05). You were one of the best! Our family will pray for you everyday. Until we all meet again..once a KNIGHT always a KNIGHT.

A Class of 1979 Knight.

Tasha Geare

November 4, 2003

Mr.Ahern,

My Junior year I started SM and I had no idea what to expect, I was the shy, quiet girl in class and I usually just slept alot during school, but your class was the one class I didn't mind staying up for, no matter what I always left your class with a smile on my face, I had Nate Smith in my class and you and him helped make it a GREAT class with tons of memories! Thanx for everything, you're missed GREATLY! <3~Always, Tasha...

Brittany Gonzalez

November 4, 2003

Mr. Ahern...

You truly were the best teacher I ever had! You will deffinetly be missed by the St. Mary's family. I will never forget the times that you got mad at our class for falling asleep during one of your MANY movies and threw the control against the door which actually shattered in many pieces... but as it turned out you had several more controls just in case! The Sandlot will always be memory of you, Mr. Ahern! Thanks for all the memories! Rest In Peace Coach!

~Always~ Brittany Gonzalez

Class of 2004

elizabeth Aki

November 4, 2003

Ahern Family,

Aloha, from Hawaii. I wish to express my heartfelt Aloha and sadness for your loss of a great person. When I was in school, Mr. Ahern was full of energy and life. He also was a great teacher, coach and friend to all he met. He will be missed, but never forgotten. Again, please accept our sympathy and love for all. Like it had been said "Once a KNIGHT always a KNIGHT. Aloha.

Albert P & Elizabeth (Espinoza) Aki

Waimanalo, HI

Kelly Pierce Maguire (SMHS 1984)

November 4, 2003

To the Ahern Family,

I was deeply saddened by the news of Mr. Ahern.

My prayers are with you.

Rachelle Aros

November 4, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

You continue to teach lessons even in your death. How PRECIOUS is our time together, NOW I guess we know. That is evidence of the impact you had on the thousands of students you touched over the years. From Drivers Education to Junior History, from the Football field to the Baseball field, you were involved, respected, admired, and loved. My memories of your class may fade, but the impact of your life never will. Thank you, I’ll miss you, and May YOU rest in the peace of the Lord’s Arms FOREVER.

To all current St. Mary’s Students,

May you realize why Mr. Ahern put 25 Years of Hard, Dedicated Work into OUR School, what you received in those 4 years you will take with you for a lifetime. Take your memories of this GREAT Man and appreciate the time you share with those you LOVE.

To the Families of Mr. Ahern,

I will continue to pray for you. I hope you know what an awesome person you shared with us all. Thank you for that, and God Bless.

Sabrina Vera, Class of 2002

November 4, 2003

Thanks Mr. Ahern for being a wonderful teacher and sharing your funny tactics with all your students. U.S.History was great. Your soul and your family are forever in my prayers. I will always remember to dodge those flying staplers and that there was "No Crying" in your class! Thanks for the memories coach.

Cameron Rios

November 4, 2003

Coach Ahern, You are a man that will be greatly missed. Not just by your family, but by the young women and men you have touched. You taught us all that we can achieve more than we thought. You made all the young men you coached feel like champions, because thats what you beleived. Your inspiring stories will live in our hearts forever. Especially the "Peter Pan" story. I feel very lucky to be a part of your coaching career. I would like to thank you for all the laughs, tears, lessons you have taught us.

Rest in Pease and God Bless.

Cameron Rios

Class of 1995

Jennifer Clancy - Hill

November 4, 2003

Coach Ahern's finds his way into many of my memories of freshman year. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May God bless you Coach Ahern.

Luciano Cota

November 4, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

I will never forget the memories of my American History class my Junior year at SM. Ronnie Ocono was in my class and you two always had jokes towards eachother. Everytime I watch the Sandlot I will think of you! You were a great man and I dont think you knew how many lives you touched,including mine. Future Knights are missing out in their SM experience because you are gone. God Bless your soul and along with Father Blaise watch over the entire SMKNIGHT community.

CLASS OF 2002

April Roll

November 4, 2003

My thoughts and prayers are with the Ahern and entire St. Mary's family.

Dan Ryan

November 4, 2003

Coach,

From the first day I met you as a 10 year old kid on my Little League team until the day I graduated in '84, I'll never forget the values,heart and skills you instilled in me. As my coach,teacher and mentor you were always there to answer a question or resolve a problem and I will never forget that. Rest in peace Mike.

Jessica Calderon

November 4, 2003

Remembering a wonderful man and great teacher, so much to say but just not enough words. Appreciating what he did as a teacher and a coach, without realizing himself, how many lives he touched and just how much he was loved. In my family alone, reaching three generations and now my nephew, Wow! What a great man. He will be truely missed, my prayers go out to his family and the students who must continue on without him. (The Calderon Family)

Adriana Gloria

November 4, 2003

Coach Ahern was one of the BEST U.S. History teachers and always made me laugh. Our class definately got crazy because Michelle Hightower was in it, I'm sure he remembers those times. ;-) I send my condolences and prayers are with you always...just remember, ONCE A KNIGHT ALWAYS A KNIGHT!!! xOxO, Adriana Gloria

Class of 2002

Cindy Essert O'Connor

November 3, 2003

As a graduate of St Mary's I had the pleasure of being in Mr. Ahern's geometry class in 1983. I still have vivid memories of Mr. Ahern forever with his coffee cup and newspaper at his desk. Yet somehow he was still able to "watch" us to be sure we were being honest test takers! :) My thoughts and prayers are extended to the Ahern family. The entire St. Mary's community will miss you Coach.

Daniel Mena

November 3, 2003

Mr. Ahern you were a great man, teacher, coach, and role model. I learned so much from you as a person not only in the classroom but especially on the sports fields. I'll never forget the lessons I learned from you and the fun times you brought to all of us. From playing stickball as a JV baseball player to coaching against you my first year of coaching. I hope I can be half the man you were. You'll be missed.

Patricia Pittman

November 3, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

You always were and will continue to be liked by almost all the students. You had a unique way of relating and communicating with us "Chillins'". I will never forget the way you have touched my life and the lives of all my friends. Our memories are priceless and I will cherish them today, and forever! I apologize now for breaking your rule...but you brought it on yourself this time!!! I love you and will miss you until i get to see you again!

Love Always and Forever, Patricia P.

Lorena Gloria

November 3, 2003

Heroes are remembered, but legends never die. Sorry but I broke your #1 rule Mr. Ahern. We'll miss you!

Class of 2004

Matthew Marquez

November 3, 2003

hey coach thanks for everything you tought me in football and life we will always miss you keep a watch over your family and St.Mary's family we will hang a banner for you.

"I BELIEVE"

Love,

Matthew Marquez .aka. figgy

Anonymous Knight

November 3, 2003

All I can Say to you now:

If LOVE could have saved you, you NEVER would have died!

Forever in our hearts and minds.

Mr. Ahern, you were not just a teacher or a coach, you were a role model and a friend. Your #1 rule is so hard to follow at this time, but for you, I will. "No Crying"

Thank you for all you gave to my education and more importantly to my Life Experience.

Watch over me, you have a great view NOW.

Love & God Bless!

Sarah Novak- Class of '03

November 3, 2003

Dear Ahern Family,

Let me start off by saying how sorry I am to hear about your loss. I was a student of Mr. Ahern's American History class. He taught me so much not only academically, but about life. I'll never forget the crazy days he would carry his baseball bat around and play Freecell on the computer nonstop. He was a great man and will not be soon forgotten. "No crying!" We love you Mr. Ahern!

Michael Lavelle

November 3, 2003

Coach Ahern,

You were one of the few teachers at SM that i truely respected. It was because of the way you treated me, with nothing but respect. Thank you for teaching me more than just History and Baseball, I will miss you. Thank you for teaching me how to drive and especially for showing us that bootleg version of "Saving Private Ryan". "wonder bat forever, COOOOCH!"

Class of 2000

Jim Essert

November 3, 2003

Coach Ahern,

I met you as a freshman in 1979. You were my football coach who put courage into my heart. As the years passed I graduated from college and came back to coach at a school you had introduced to me. While I was gone your incredible winning record had only increased. I became your assistant coach at the freshman level for a number of years. You ran the offense and I ran the defense. We coached incredible teams with incredibly talented young men. You made the same impression on those young men that you had made on me years earlier. Your heart felt pre-game speeches and emotional pleas are legendary. Coaching with you is without question one of the best times of my life. I will deeply miss you. Thank you Lord for allowing Coach Ahern to enter my life.

Jim Essert

Saint Mary’s class of 1983

sofia ewing

November 3, 2003

REST IN PEACE COACH AHERN. Your soul and family are in my prayers.

Mary Eileen Kraus

November 3, 2003

To all of Mike's friends, students both former and present, and colleagues, your thoughtful messages bring our family comfort. Thank you.

[email protected]

Mary Orton

November 3, 2003

Mary and family: I was so terribly sorry to hear of your brother's passing. I don't think I ever met him, but the other entries in the guest book tell me how wonderful a person he was. May the pain of your loss be soon replaced with wonderful memories of a life well-lived. Love, MO

Tito Herrera

November 3, 2003

Coach, Thank You for all the good times, Laughs, Tears, Memories, Teaching, and the Lessons. Not only were you a coach, a teacher, but a friend You will be missed. Missing you Pacheco, and the Herrera Family.

BJ Satran

November 3, 2003

Dear Mike,

You always pushed me to be the best. Not only in sports, but in life as well. If you never knew before then I hope you know now what a profound impact you had on my life and the lives of so many others during your time with us. I know that you now rest in the arms of the Lord, and that your spirit and legacy will live in all of our hearts for the years to come.

"I Believe!"

God Bless You,

Brian "BJ" Satran - SMHS '91

The Uribe Family

November 3, 2003

Please accept our heartfelt sympathy of the loss of Coach Ahern.

We were there the first day he started at St. Mary's. He was young and very sure of himself, ready and eager to make sure his time spent here would be remembered. Well, he succeeded. He only graduated from Brophy but he bled 'green and white' from the very start. St. Mary's was his second family, without a doubt.

Thanks for your loyalty, and for the wonderful memories we will always have of you.

Katrina'76, Rose'77

Rufino'79 and Chris Jr.'85

Robert DeJoy

November 3, 2003

I am a student at St. Mary's and I had Coach Ahern 5th hour. No words can describe the feeling I expressed after being told about his death. Mr. Ahern was a good friend and teacher. We were always the two joking around and we always harassed each other as a joke. He taught me more then most teachers ever have and he will be missed. TO MR. AHERN: I'll meet you when I get there, thanks, I love you buddy.

Sidnee Majette-Smith

November 3, 2003

Coach Ahern,

You will be greatly missed by the class of '94. I remember you teaching geography my freshman year. I always gave you a hard time (class clown). But truthfully, I really enjoyed that class...You will always be in our hearts!!! Rest in Peace.

Ginger Gomez

November 3, 2003

To the Ahern Family,

My deepest condolensces to your family. Our prayers are with you at this time of grief. Mr. Ahern will be greatly missed, and was a great man. Take care and may God Bless you all!

Love Always~N~Forever,

Ginger Gomez

Jan Burke

November 3, 2003

Bill and I add our sincere sympathies to this growing list of friends of the Ahern family. Mike's brother, Chris, is a friend and we appreciate this opportunity to extend our condolences to him and all the family at this sad time. There are many friends here in Tucson thinking of you.

Ruth DeMore

November 3, 2003

To the Ahern Family, I offer my sincerest sympathy. Your family has endured very tragic loss over the past few short years with Mrs. Ahern's death, Mr. Ahern's death and now Mike's death. I am so sorry for your losses and I will keep you all in my prayers. I hope that you can each find peace in knowing that Mike is in the arms of your mom and dad now.

Jon Mount

November 3, 2003

Coach, I didn't stay at St. Mary's after my freshman year, but my memories of you were strong and positive ones. You were true to your beliefs and taught many of us how to stay true to ours. Rest well Coach.

Rick('98) & Brandi('99) Chrusciel

November 3, 2003

Mr.Ahern,

You are missed and loved very much. I'll never forget driving with you for drivers ed when you pushed the trick brake on me in Father Blaze's car and told me to go the wrong way on that one way street. I will also never forget you making me sit in the hall for talking to much. Wether it was getting sent out of class to sit in the hall so Mr. Leiman could catch you or stapelers flying across the room your happy memories will always be with me. My brother Rick also sends his condolences to the Ahern & St. Mary's Family he is working in Colorado for a few weeks."NO CRYING"

Renae G.

November 3, 2003

There is not a single St. Mary's student who can say they had the "full SM experience" without having had Coach Ahern's US History Class. Having graduted in 1987 I was a witness to a few of his undefeated Freshman Football Teams and the drive and passion that he instilled in his players. Coach Ahern had the rare ability to command respect from his students yet maintained his approachability and sense of humor to keep learning fun. He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies to his family, friends and the entire SM Community. Rest in Peace Coach Ahern.

Patrick Sedillo

November 3, 2003

Mr. Ahern was my favorite teacher at St. Mary's. Although I hadn't seen him since graduation (1987), he has always been an influence. Coach Ahern was a very cool person, and I will always remember his teaching style and friendship with fondness.

Alex Moreno

November 3, 2003

My condolences to the Ahern Family, and to the St. Mary's Family and Community. You survived years of teasing from Horace for being a Brophy Prep Grad. Your chalk board drawings in history and algerbra were priceless. You prepared young boys to become young men in your years of coaching freshman football. Even though you have passed your spirit will live on because you touch the lives of many in your time at St. Mary's.

Alex G. Moreno "Class of 87"

Melissa Deguire

November 3, 2003

To The Ahern Family:

As graduates of the class of 94, my husband and myself send our prayers to your family. Coach Ahern was a wonderful teacher and an awsome coach. He will be greatly miss within the St.Mary's family as well as yours. Our prayer go out to you!

Melissa & Jason Deguire

class of 94

Cathy Barreras

November 3, 2003

I send my deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of Michael Ahern. I did not know him personally but through the words of his mother, it seemed as if I had known him all along. Coletta always spoke of how proud she was of Mike and how he coached an undefeated team. I know that she loved all of her children and is now watching over Mike again as he joins her in heaven. Once again you have my deepest sympathies, you are all in my prayers.

Linda Garcia

November 3, 2003

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Ahern once at my mother's work. He was visiting his mother who was my mom's good friend. If there is one thing I remember about Mr. Ahern it's that he seemed to be so active, driven and full of passion, especially when it came to St. Mary's and its students. There was a glow in his eyes as he would speak about the team and the students he taught. He seemed to be a good hearted individual with great pride towards the school and students he taught for. I remember thinking to myself, "I hope I too will be able to have that passion he holds when I start in my career." I'm certain that Mr. Ahern will be greatly missed by many, for I am proof that he touched the lives of everyone he met.

Kate Loudenslagel

November 2, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

We are all going to miss you a lot. You were a great teacher and a great person. I will never forget all the early mornings teaching me to drive. Thank you for all that you have done and for touching everyone's lives as a great teacher.

Kate Kriloff

November 2, 2003

U.S. History was one of my favorite classes because Mr. Ahern made it fun. I think everyone was a fan of those crazy looking "maps" he would draw on the chalkboard. He was a great teacher and a great coach, and he will be missed. Rest in Peace Coach Ahern!

Breanna T.

November 2, 2003

Thank you so much for being a wonderful teacher, friend, and coach to everyone. You have made a big impact on many lives and will never be forgotten. I'm sure none of us will forget your #1 rule: "No crying!" We'll keep cheering for those Yankees, and I know you will to! You are missed. Rest in peace, Mr. Ahern.

Rose Yearnd

November 2, 2003

Mike was a very person to me and I will miss him deeply. I fully expected us to grow old together.

He gave his all to so many without wanting anything in return.

His love for football, baseball and basketball was unmeasureable. He lived and died a 'Knight'.

May God Bless and Love Mike Always.

The Y's - Bill, Rose & Billy Yearnd

November 2, 2003

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. We know he's in good hands with your folks, Fr.Blaise and all our loved ones.

Our sincerest sympathy.

Aimee Shumway

November 2, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

I can't believe I'm going to school on Monday and you're not going to be there.We are all going to miss you and we love you! I hope you know that. You had a tremendous impact on us and St. Mary's won't be the same without you. Forever you will have a spot in our hearts.

Mike McCormack

November 2, 2003

From 1982-83 I taught at Saint Mary's and served as Mike's assistant coach on the undeafeted freshmen football team. I learned a lot about teaching and coaching from Mike that I continue to use in my career at Lincoln High School in Tacoma. I'm sorry to hear about the loss of Mike and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

Kasbi O'Dell

November 2, 2003

Mr. Ahern,

You will greatly be missed by all the students and faculity at St. Mary's. You were an amazing teacher and coach. You touched so many people's live with your smile and dry sense of humor. You and your family will will be in all of our prayers. Once a Knight, Always a Knight. Rest in peace.

Stephanie Butler

November 2, 2003

I was very saddened to hear of Mr. Ahern's passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.

SMHS class of '93

jehn g

November 2, 2003

we miss you mr.ahern, we always will

Joe Ahern

November 2, 2003

Mike the first thing you did I'm sure was to get with Mom and Dad. I know this is where you want to be. Both of your families, ours and St. Mary's are and will continue to miss you. Don't forget to say hi to Mom and Dad for us and let them know how much we miss all of you. With all of our love and understanding. Joe,Dodi,Steve,Mary E, Joe K,Mathew,Andrew,Megan, Robert, Christopher,Jenny, Aunt Donna and Uncle Jim, the Lachner and Ahern families.

God Bless

Lynn Mascarelli

November 2, 2003

As a former teacher of Saint Mary's High School, I have many fond memories of conversations and laughter with my colleague, Mike. His heart was in the game...everyone knew this. I wish to express my sympathy and promise of prayers to his family and the faculty and students of SMHS.

May Michael rest in peace. I am certain that Father Blaise was there to welcome him home.

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