John A. Ahlstrom

John Alfred Ahlstrom, 76, passed away peacefully at his home in Valley Falls, Kansas, on June 3, 2026.

John was born on July 27, 1949, at Fort Dix, New Jersey, to Fred W. Ahlstrom and Myrtle J. Ahlstrom, both of whom preceded him in death.

John lived a life defined by service, hard work, curiosity, adventure, and generosity. He proudly served his country in both the United States Army and the Kansas Air National Guard. During his military career, he served as an Airframe Repairman, Crash Rescue Firefighter, Fire Protection Specialist, and Radar Specialist, ultimately achieving the rank of Master Sergeant (E-7) in the Kansas Air National Guard and as a Reserve of the Air Force. His service earned numerous distinctions, including the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award.

Following his military service, John built a remarkable career that took him around the world. He worked in aircraft maintenance and instruction in Germany, Vietnam, and Iran before returning to Kansas. He held positions with Gates Learjet and Bell Helicopter International and spent the majority of his professional career with Boeing Frequency Management Services, where he retired as a Radio Frequency Communications Specialist, a role of which he was especially proud.

A lifelong learner, John pursued studies at the Community College of the Air Force, Friends University, and Southwestern College while earning numerous technical certifications and licenses throughout his career. His expertise in communications and electronics extended into his personal life through amateur radio, where he held the call sign AA0S and volunteered as a Chief Examiner for Commercial Radio Services.

John was a member of the VFW Post 1650 and enjoyed amateur radio, boating, scuba diving, and driving—especially his motorcycle, a semi-truck, or any vehicle that allowed him to enjoy the journey. He treasured opportunities to travel and visit family and friends. Above all, he loved country living, and some of his happiest moments were spent on the porch of his rural home, quietly watching the world go by.

John's generosity, practical wisdom, easygoing personality, and unmistakable Ahlstrom sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. He especially enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others and took great pleasure in helping family and friends experience the hobbies, places, and activities he loved.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Myrtle Ahlstrom; his infant daughter, Gennifer S. Ahlstrom; Huong Ahlstrom, the mother of his children; and his wife, Joyce Ahlstrom.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Leona Hanus, who remained by his side and cared for him throughout his final years; his daughter, Sandy Rose Ahlstrom Parker, and son-in-law, Nick Parker; his grandchildren, Lexie Parker and Colton Parker; his brothers, David H. Ahlstrom and his wife, Cathy, and Daniel S. Ahlstrom and his wife, Selah; as well as extended family members and many friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

To his family, John was simply Dad and Grandpa. He opened doors to experiences that might never have happened otherwise, shared countless adventures, and brought laughter wherever he went. His family will forever miss his stories, his humor, his guidance, and the joy he found in bringing people together.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Friends wishing to attend may contact the family for details.