Joan Ahlberg

Joan Ahlberg, 90, passed away December 13, 2023.

Joan was born April 3, 1933 in Melcher, Iowa to Albert and Eva Kauzlarich.
She graduated from Melcher High School and went to work for Meredith Publishing as a secretary. One day, while in the elevator, she met Robert Ahlberg, who was working on the building as a crane operator for Neuman Brothers. He asked a co-worker of Joan’s to introduce them. At the time, she was living in Melcher and that’s where they had their first date. Joan and Robert were married on October 29, 1955, and made their home in Des Moines, in a house Robert had been building. Joan lived there until recently when her health started to fail.

Joan loved being a homemaker and took great pride in her home. She enjoyed spending time creating beautiful things for the people she loved and was constantly crafting, painting ceramics, decorating cakes, crocheting, and cross-stitching. She was incredibly talented with a needle and thread, sewing countless dresses, suits, coats, and doll clothes. Joan had a green thumb, and you would often find her on the lawn mower or tending to her beautiful garden. Joan was kindhearted, loved a cold Mountain Dew, enjoyed a good book, and adored animals.
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Joan is survived by her daughters, Maureen (Thomas) Gorsche, Julie (Vern) Lachowitzer and Lynda (Rob) Bierma; seven grandchildren, Ryan and Bryan Bierma, RJ (Tia) Lachowitzer, Mark (Kristen) Gorsche, Ashley (Greg) Herman, Laura (Kasey) Linden and Sarah (Brad) Huyck; six great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years, Robert; her sister Margaret Kauzlarich; brother, Fred Kauzlarich; and her parents.

The family will greet friends Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the Rosary prayed at 6:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, December 20th at 11 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5711 SW 9th Street, followed by burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport in loving memory of Joan.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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