Gary L. Ahlstrom

Gary was born on September 4, 1949, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Walter and Bette (Heldt) Ahlstrom. He graduated from Benson High School in 1967. Just ten days after meeting the love of his life, Donna, Gary enlisted in the United States Navy on October 30, 1968. The two were married on December 18, 1970, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love and commitment.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States Navy Seabees Battalion as an Equipment Operator Petty Officer Third Class (E-4), completing three tours in Vietnam before being honorably discharged on November 10, 1971. His service remained an important part of his life, and he was a member of American Legion Post 374.

Following his return home, Gary worked as an ironworker and was a member of Ironworkers Union No. 21 from 1973 to 1979. He and Donna then moved to Thedford, Nebraska, where they lived from 1979 to 1984. During that time, Gary worked as a ranch hand and developed a deep love for the Sandhills—a place that always held a special place in his heart. In 1984, they moved back to Omaha, where Gary worked as a truck driver for many years.

Gary was a man who could be described as both stubborn and hardworking, but above all else, he loved his family. He found joy in the simple things—hunting, fishing, ranching, following NASCAR, and spending time in the Sandhills. After returning to Omaha, Gary and his son Steve also enjoyed spending time together helping on his cousin Danny Simpson’s drag racing pit crew, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

He was also a member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 43 years, a testament to his strength and perseverance.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife: Donna; daughter: Sheri Haynes and her husband: Chris of Omaha; son: Steve and his wife: Shannon of Thedford; sisters: Sharon (Larry) Maupin and Debbie Ahlstrom; brother: Walt (Chris) Ahlstrom; grandchildren: Brandon (Bailee) Ahlstrom, Edward Wagner (fiancé Becca), Coltin Ivester (girlfriend Jaisee), Bodell (Matt) Bachelor, TelRae Sherman, Jentri (Tyler) O’Brien, Grant (Jaide) Ahlstrom; and step-grandchildren: Maddison Kuncl, Ben Haynes, and Nick Haynes; as well as great-grandchildren: Annabelle and Iyla Ahlstrom, Jaylen Jones, Sadie, Tyler, Mason, and Allie Bachelor, Callahan O’Brien, Jackson Ahlstrom, and Grey and Sullivan Haynes.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Gary’s legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply, the life he built through hard work, and the many memories shared with those who knew him.

Gary’s strength, resilience, and quiet dedication—both in service to his country and to his family—will be remembered by all who knew him.

Memorial Service 11:00 AM Friday (5/1/2026) at Roeder Mortuary 2727 N. 108th St. Omaha, NE; Luncheon at American Legion Post #374 13913 S St, Omaha, NE after service. Burial 10:00 AM Friday (5/1/2026) at Omaha National Cemetery in Omaha, NE.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Thedford Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service.

Roeder Mortuary, Inc. - 108th Street Chapel - 2727 N 108th St - Omaha, NE - 402-496-9000

www.RoederMortuary.com