Edward William Ahlquist's Obituary
Edward William Ahlquist (Honcho), 89, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 23, 2025.
Edward leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and cherished memories. He was a Christian man in both word and deed who loved the Lord Jesus. He was known for his kind heart, his gentle spirit, and his unwavering dedication to his family and community. He will be remembered not only for his service and accomplishments, but more importantly for the warmth and kindness he extended to everyone he encountered.
Edward served his country with honor in the United States Army, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to duty and service. Following his military service, he was a custodian for the Youngstown Public School system at Jackson Elementary School. As custodian, he took great pride in maintaining his school as a safe and clean environment for all students and staff. After retirement he moved to Florida, working different jobs, his favorite as a crossing guard, where he brightened the mornings of countless children with his warm smile and friendly greetings. He cherished the daily interactions, forming genuine connections with the students he helped safely across the street.
Beyond his dedication to community, Edward found immense fulfillment in his family. He was a devoted husband to Jacqueline and a loving father. His greatest joy, however, was being a grandfather forever known as Papa. He relished the time spent with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, showering them with love. We will always remember the silly things he did and said that made us laugh and smile.
In his leisure time, Edward enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved riding his bicycle, often seen enjoying leisurely rides through the neighborhood. A skilled handyman, he always had a project underway, keeping his mind and hands busy and finding satisfaction in creating and repairing. He was a passionate sports fan, unwavering in his support of the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns.
Edward is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Peebles Ahlquist; his children, Edward Ahlquist Jr., Keith Ahlquist, Kim Ahlquist, and Cynthia Wilson; his grandchildren, Maureen Wilson, Malinda Wilson, David Wilson Jr., Zachary Wilson, Kevin Ahlquist Jr., Michael LeGrand, Deanna Reyes, Colton Ahlquist, Edward Ahlquist III, and Kelli Ahlquist; siblings, Natalie Beil and Richard “Ricky” Ahlquist; and 13 great grandchildren along with numerous relatives and friends. Edward was preceded in passing by his parents, Anton and Isabel Ahlquist; and son, Kevin Ahlquist.
Family and friends are invited to his Celebration of Life Service in his honor on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Cape Christian Fellowship, 2110 Chiquita Blvd S, Cape Coral, FL 33991.
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