Robert James Ahern, 71, of Naples, Florida, formerly of Barrington Hills, Illinois, passed away at his home on June 21, 2013 after a long illness. Bob, as he was more commonly known, was born to John M. and Cecilia Ahern on June 16, 1942 at Wesley Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating from Lane Tech in 1960, Bob took his bachelor's degree at DePauw University in 1964 and his MBA from the University of Illinois in 1966.
After receiving his master's degree, he joined Arthur Andersen & Co., later became a partner in Andersen Consulting, retiring in 1999. In 1983 he and his family moved from Winnetka, Illinois to South Africa where they lived for four years as ex-patriots, enjoying many photographic safaris and the richness and diversity that country has to offer.
After retirement, Bob trained as a triathlete, competed in sprint triathlons in several states and was nationally ranked in his age group. He also enjoyed golf, climbing 14-ers in Colorado and cycling with friends. He was passionate about his family, friends and his many four-legged companions.
Bob is survived by his loving wife Nancy Ellen, a son, Ryan James Ahern (Marie) of Palatine Illinois and a daughter, Kerry Cecile Peterson (Donald) of Dallas, Texas, four grandchildren, and his sister Judith Trelease of Marietta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother John Joseph.
A memorial service will be held at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 - 111th Ave. N., Naples, Florida at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2013 . In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a contribution to Home of the Sparrow, McHenry IL; Habitat for Humanity; or Avow Hospice of Naples FL.
Please visit www.hodgesfhatnaplesmg.com for online condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
July 7, 2013
Pat & Graham Scofield
Dear Nancy, you have been very much in our thoughts, deepest sympathy,
Pat & Graham Scofield
July 1, 2013
Dear Nancy, I am so sorry to learn of Bob's passing and would like to extend my heart felt condolences to you, your children and his loved ones. How well I remember working with Bob in South Africa and the enjoyable dinners we all had together at your home
Nancy, keep strong and take care of yourself; your family surely counts on you in these times.
Sincerely yours,
Ron Flores
June 27, 2013
Dean Nerad
Nancy and Family -- So sorry to hear about your loss. Bob was a one of my Father's peers at the Firm, and when I was there was always someone you could talk to and count on to make you smile. My condolences.
June 26, 2013
Bob Kress
Nancy and family --- very sorry to hear about Bob. We worked together for several years in the mid-90's. Bob was always balanced in working hard, but injecting humor and fun as well. My deepest sympathies to you and the family.
June 26, 2013
Brad Mitchell
Dear Nancy, Ryan and all - Ellen and I are so sad to hear of Bob's passing. Of my 15 years at the co., he was one of the kindest, brightest, and most memorable. I know he lived more in his 71 years than most can pack into 100. Our kindest thoughts and prayers for peace are with you all.
June 25, 2013
George Shaheen
Nancy and Family,
I was saddened to hear of your loss. Bob and I were contemporaries in the Firm and my thoughts of him bring back fond memories. He was a man of many talents and interests. He will be missed. The Firm was built by many great professionals. Bob was certainly one of those who contributed greatly. Thank you for sharing him us at his work. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
George Shaheen
June 25, 2013
Nancy--so sorry to hear about Bob --my thoughts are with you and your family --I do remember the good times at Andersen. Donna Taylor
June 25, 2013
Amanda Lutz
Nancy, Ryan, and Kerry -
So sorry to hear the news. I always enjoyed spending time with Bob - I will always remember his laugh and great stories. My thoughts are with you.
June 25, 2013
Mark Otway
So sorry to hear of Bob's demise. I knew him for many years at Andersen Consulting and liked him a lot. We did one or two things together at various global meetings and we got on well.
Regards
Mark Otway
Retired Partner Andersen Consulting London
June 24, 2013
Kay Gillespie
Dear Nancy, my thoughts and prayers are with you. i wish i could be there for you. I know that your family will be at your side. I did not know Bob very well, but enjoyed seeing him at our functions. He suffered so long and you were at his side. You have lots of memories to look back on. Love, Kay Gillespie
June 24, 2013
Nancy, Barb & I remember with great fondness the hospitality both Bob and you showed us when we came to South Africa. I knew Bob from his earlier days in Chicago and always appreciated his humorous yet positive outlook towards life. Jim Franch
June 24, 2013
Emerson Dickey
I counted Bob as a friend. There were many of us who were partners, but being a friend to so many - as Bob always was - was special. I know his family is torn and saddened. Enjoy the memories - No, revel in them.
Emerson Dickey
June 24, 2013
I lost my father to cancer recently. Losing a parent is one of the hardest things imaginable when they are so young. I never met Robert. But he strikes me as a person that would be worth meeting. My deepest condolences.
June 24, 2013
Rich Linting
Dearest Nancy: We are so sorry to hear this. We have the fondest memories of our times together. Bob was such a positive, helpful, fun person. No question, he is in Heaven!! God Bless, Rich and Ginny
June 24, 2013
Dianne Shanley
A most wonderful human being. He will be missed. Our hearts go out to you Nancy, Kerry, and Ryan and all the grandkids and Ella
Dianne & Mike Shanley
June 23, 2013
Elaine Spencer-Carver
To the Ahern Family,
Larry and I send our love and support to all. I well remember Bob's vitality and zest for life. He truly was someone who lived life to the fullest.
Blessings,
Elaine Spencer-Carver
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Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens525 - 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108
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Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens525 - 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108
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