Jerry Ahrens Obituary
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He enlisted in the Air Force in 1951, stationed out of Geiger field, as an Aircraft Mechanic/Crew Chief on newly commissioned C-47 carriers getting them combat/service ready. After completing his military stent in 1955, he worked at both McConnell AFB/Kansas and Buckley Field/Colorado under their defense satellite launch programs. He was a pioneer and an integral part of launch systems changes, from analog to digital.
He transferred to Vandenberg AFB in 1963, packing up three kids in a Ford Panel Station Wagon (with an aftermarket Air Conditioner), and headed "West" choosing Santa Maria as their home. In his new position at Vandenberg AFB, he was a Quality Assurance Manager and achieved the rank of GS16, (an equivalent to a Senior Executive Service – SES rank) He was fortunate to retire at age 52.
Jerry was a true "Jack of All" trades and built (by himself) his A-Frame cabin at Running Deer Ranch, Lake Nacimiento, which is where he made his home until 2019, when upon his family's urging, moved into Paso Robles.
Jerry was a lifetime (58 years) member of the Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 where he learned to BBQ – Santa Maria Style and was part of the lodge BBQ team which included going to the Cow Palace in Daly City and happily passed down the Santa Maria BBQ gene to his son Alan.
He is survived by his children, Linda, Cindy and Alan (Lisa), 5 grandchildren, Erin (Barry), Kevin, Kimberly, Adam, Austin; 3 great grandsons, Cameron, Jay and Ian. He was preceded in death by his first wife Marilyn (McElyea) Greenhaw and Doris (Righetti) Ahrens, his (3) sisters, Maxine, Awanda, Veloise, and his brother Don.
Jerry was quiet in demeanor, had a great sense of humor, (and was perhaps just a little stubborn) Jerry was loved and enjoyed by everyone who crossed his path, and will be truly missed.
A private family burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity, in his honor.
For additional information, contact Eddington Funeral Services, 429 Bassett St., King City, (831) 385-5400.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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429 Bassett Street, King City, CA 93930
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