Lt. Col. Richard J. Ahlers

Lt. Col. Richard J. Ahlers, age 78 of Willis, died on May 16, 2011 surrounded by family at the Spring, TX residence of his son. Born in Iowa, he grew up in the Green Bay, Wisconsin area and received his undergraduate degree from Indiana University in Bloomington and his MBA from the University of Detroit. Richard retired after 23 years of service to his country with the U.S. Marine Corp. He served as a Intelligence Specialist in Southeast Asia, receiving the Bronze Star and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry for his dedicated service. He had been a member of St. Jospeh's parish in New Waverly before becoming a member at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe. In his spare time, he enjoyed reading and watching the History channel.He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Joseph and Sadie Ahlers, and a son, Steven A. Ahlers. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Virginia "Ginny" Ahlers; son, Michael A. Ahlers and wife Constance of Spring; grandchildren, Victoria and Max; brother, Robert Ahlers and wife Sally; nieces, Ann and Marjorie; and nephews, Mark and Robert.