Ronald Glendon Ahre

Ronald Glendon Ahre, died on October 18, 2025. Diagnosed in 2022 with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, the continuous decline became restrictive. He was, however, able to live at home, where he unexpectedly passed away.

Ron was born in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, on October 30, 1946. When he was two, the family moved to Woodburn, Oregon. Growing up, he enjoyed family vacations to the Oregon coast, fishing, golfing and music, playing the guitar and 5-string banjo at home and the baritone in the school band. Ron graduated from Woodburn High School in 1964. At Pacific Lutheran University he studied music education. After student teaching in the elementary school, he discovered, even more than being a band director, he loved working with upper grade elementary school students. He continued at PLU another year getting his K-12 certificate and graduated in 1969. That fall he began teaching sixth grade at Fruitland Elementary School in Puyallup, Washington, and finished his career in the same classroom, still behind the same desk, 37 years later.

In 1980, Ron and Joan Perry were married. Daughter Jenn arrived a few years later and Ron loved being a dad. He was a loyal follower of all her interests and activities. After retirement, Joan and Ron enjoyed music festivals and trips to the Oregon Coast. In addition, they had many wonderful vacations exploring the country and journeyed to five continents. As Ron became less able to travel, they enjoyed time at the family property on Puget Sound.

Ron was preceded in death by parents, Florence (Hagmann) Ahre and Glen Ahre. He is survived by brother Ted (Marla) Ahre of Woodburn, OR, wife of 45 years Joan Ahre, daughter Jenn (Michael) Canfield of Tacoma, and three grandchildren, Elaine, Jonah and Quinn.

A memorial service for Ron will be held November 15, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church of Tacoma, 524 S I St, Tacoma, Washington, 98405. Reception following in the church Fellowship Hall.

Those wishing to donate to a cause in Ron’s memory can donate in his name to Thurston County Food Bank online or mailed to P. O. Box 11549, Olympia, WA. 98508

Also accepting donations in Ron’s name is the junior golf program at Woodburn High School: Woodburn High School Woodburn Junior Golf Club, Attn: Neil Wilhelm 1785 Front St., Woodburn, OR 97071