John T. Ahern

John T. Ahern, a man of profound faith and boundless spirit, was called to heaven on December 17, 2025, in Santa Ana, California. Born on June 16, 1946, in Mankato, Minnesota, John's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, creativity, and generosity that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
John's journey through life was marked by his dedication to his cherished family. He is survived by his wife, Patty; their children, John James Ahern and his wife Sherry, Michael Eagan Ahern and his wife Jenn, Ryann Marie Ahern Polatschek and her husband Edmund, and Meghan Rose Schoenleben and her husband Bradley; his twelve grandchildren, Madison and her husband Jackson, Kalleigh, John David, Samuel, Grant, Clare, Beau, Nora, Jackson, Elle, Emerson, and Avery, each a precious gift in John's life. He cherished every moment spent with them. His brother, Joe, and sisters, Mary Kay, Patty, and Jamie, also survive him, each significant in his life. John was preceded in death by his brother Jim with whom he shared a special bond.
John was an Architect; this was not just John's profession but his passion. He began his career with smaller firms, honing his skills and vision, before founding his own firm, which he led for 35 years. John worked on many church-affiliated designs, pouring his soul into spaces that would uplift and inspire communities for generations. His designs stand as a silent yet eloquent testimony to his commitment to beauty and spirituality.
John's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his existence. He actively participated in his church, leading fundraisers, including the fish fry at his local parish, and engaging in community projects with a joyful heart. His hands, always ready to serve, led teams to Mexico to build homes for those in need. He lived out the words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love."
His creativity knew no bounds. John was a true renaissance man, skilled in drawing, painting, and woodworking. He and Patty built their family home with love and care, each nail and beam a testament to their partnership and bold spirit. John's artistry extended to his hobbies; he was an avid sailor and water skier, ever drawn to the water.
Sports were another of John's joys. In his younger years, he played football, basketball, handball, and racquetball. He was an enthusiastic sports fan who, dressed in his Notre Dame garb, cheered on his favorite teams. His laughter and camaraderie filled any room, and his ability to connect with people was unparalleled. To John, everyone mattered; he saw the good in each person and made sure they felt seen and valued.
John lived life to its fullest, embracing each day with an adventurous and beautifully optimistic heart. His generosity was as vast as the ocean he adored, and his ability to motivate and encourage those around him mirrored his role as a pillar of his community. He was a man who not only walked in his faith but danced in its grace, always ready to extend a hand or share a word of hope.
As we celebrate John T. Ahern's life, we are reminded of his unwavering belief in the goodness of life and the power of love. In his every action he showed us that to live is to love, to serve, and to create beauty that reflects the glory of creation. John's life was a beautiful reflection of this belief, and his memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made in John's name to one of his favorite charities listed below:
Servite High School https://www.servitehs.org/giving
Corazón https://www.corazon.org/donate
The Visitation and Viewing will be held on Sunday, December 28, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with the Rosary Recital and Sharing at 5:00 PM at Ferrara Colonial Mortuary, 351 N. Hewes St., Orange, CA
Mass will be Celebrated on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Holy Family Cathedral, 566 S. Glassell St., Orange, CA 92860
A Reception and Gathering will immediately follow the Mass at the Church Hall adjacent to the Sanctuary. You are all cordially invited to join us as we celebrate John's life.
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