Obituary of William F. Ahrens

William Ahrens, 92, of Grayslake, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025. A proud veteran of the US Air Force, Bill served his country during the Korean War.

Following his military service, Bill embarked on a successful career in the automotive industry, beginning as a car salesman at Central Motors in Evanston. His natural talent and unwavering determination led him to acquire the dealership in 1978, which he owned and operated for over a decade. He was recognized for his accomplishments and was selected to become President of the Chicago Chrysler Dealers Association, Director of Volkswagen and Jeep Association and Director of the Chicago Auto Trade Association.

Bill's entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond the automotive world, leading him to pursue various residential and commercial real estate ventures in Illinois and Florida. A hands-on investor, he wasn't afraid to tackle property improvements himself and was always the first to lend a hand in demolition. His sharp business acumen and passion for mentorship led him to serve as President of the Earn and Learn Club District 55, providing guidance and support to fellow business owners. Dedicated to his community, Bill served as a Riverwoods Village Trustee, Alderman for 8 years, on the Evanston Police Advisory Commission and President of the Evanston Lions Club.

An avid boater, Bill cherished his time on Lake Michigan, often cruising to Michigan or Racine for lunch. He was a proud member and Commodore of the Waukegan Yacht Club. In his leisure time, Bill enjoyed playing poker with his family joking about taking each others money and sharing meals with friends and family. A lover of a good prime rib and good company, he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Bill is survived by his loving son Ed (Sharon); his grandchildren Liz (Tim) Wiltberger parents to Kevin, Amanda and Ryan, Angela (Randy) Yearton parents to Gina, Stephen, Margaret and Macie, Elaine (fiancé Spencer) Ahrens, and Natalie (Kevin) Walat parents to Dylan, Alex and Owen; his great-great grandchildren Georgia, Sofia, Elliana, and Maddisyn; his brother Stan (Marilyn) Ahrens and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife Nancy, his sister Grace and his parents Fred and Adella.

Visitation for Bill will be from 9:00 am – 11:30 am on Saturday January 25th at McMurrough Funeral Chapel, 101 Park Pl, Libertyville where there will be a funeral service at 11:30 am. Interment with military honors to follow at All Saints Cemetery, Des Plaines. In lieu of flowers, memorials made to American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org would be greatly appreciated. Funeral info (847) 362-2626