Rita Catherine Ahlers

July 17, 1930 - May 23, 2022

Rita Catherine Kettner Ahlers of Mooresville, NC, age 91, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 23, 2022, surrounded by family. She was born on July 17, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois to the late Emil and Adeline Kettner. Rita was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, Robert Ahlers, 5 brothers, and 3 sisters. She is survived by 1 sister, Roberta Holzkopf; 2 sons, Robert (Deb) Ahlers and Gary (Joan) Ahlers, 8 daughters, Kathleen (the late David) Halik, Joanne (Jim) Boyle, Mary (Dom) Medico, Bonnie (George) Strauch, Annette (Craig) Vanderhoff, Cheryl (John) Hanna, Jennifer (Butch) Cone, and Elizabeth (Tim) Pysell, 26 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Rita was a beloved aunt, friend, and second mother to many. She graduated from Siena High School in Chicago and went to work at the Chicago field office of the FBI. As the family expanded, they moved from Chicago, IL to Palatine, IL to Cincinnati, OH to Upper Saddle River, NJ, finally settling in the Charlotte, NC area. She enjoyed working part time as an Avon lady and typist, and loved music, dancing, singing, cooking, gardening, bowling, playing cards, and especially gathering with family and friends. Known affectionately as Gram and GG, she was an active member of The Presentation Church in NJ, St. Therese in NC, and a charter member of St. Matthews in NC. Rita's love, kindness, and compassion for others was unconditional. She was a consummate volunteer with Hospice, the Red Cross, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Mercy Hospital, the Woman's Club, Meals on Wheels, SWAT at St. Therese, and Habitat for Humanity. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Therese Catholic Church, 217 Brawley School Road, Mooresville, NC 28117. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in the spirit of Rita's generous way to St. Therese Church in Mooresville, NC, Rescue Ranch in Statesville, NC, or to the charity of your choice. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Ahlers' family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.