Edward William Ahlquist

Port Charlotte, Florida

Edward William Ahlquist, 89, of Port Charlotte, Florida, formerly of Brownlee Woods in Youngstown, died on February 23, 2025.  Ed was born in Youngstown, Ohio on November 6, 1935; he was the son of the late Anton and Isabel (Anthony) Ahlquist.

Ed 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.

Ed served his country with honor in the United States Army, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to duty and service. Following his military service, Ed was a custodian for Jackson Elementary School in Youngstown for 37 years. 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.

Ed is survived by his wife, Jacqueline (Peebles) Ahlquist, whom he married on May 20, 1961; his children, Edward Ahlquist Jr., Keith (Sandy) Ahlquist, Kim Ahlquist, and Cynthia Wilson; his sister, Natalie Beil, his brother Rick (Nancy) Ahlquist;  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; and 13 great grandchildren along with numerous relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Ahlquist.

There are no calling hours or services in Youngstown. A Celebration of Life Service was held in Florida.

Local arrangements are by the Kirila Funeral Home Inc. in Struthers.

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