Obituary of Carol J. Ahonen

Carol Jean (Hanson) Ahonen, 87, passed away with her family by her side on Thursday, September 8th, 2022 at the William Childs Hospice Center in Palm Bay, Florida.

Carol was born to Feryle "Feeney" Hanson and Helen (Moe) Hanson on September 24th, 1934, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. She attended high school in the same city, graduating in 1952. She enlisted in The United States Air Force after high school and served her country at Ramstein AFB in Germany. Upon returning to Rice Lake, Carol met the love of her life, Robert Ahonen, and they were married on September 7th, 1957.

Carol had a passion for learning; while raising her children, she attended Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, and received her teaching degree in 1977. She was also dedicated to teaching others, focusing on adult education and coaching students to get their GEDs. When she wasn't teaching, learning, or caring for others; you could find her in the stacks at the local library searching for the latest Louise Erdich or Barbara Kingsolver books or at the theatre seeing musical and dramatic stage performances. Her home was always filled with cat figurines and real-life fur babies. Her beloved frisky feline, Feeney, will go to live with family members.

Carol is survived by her children Jay (Mary) Ahonen of Hurley, Wisconsin, Jeff (Pam) Ahonen of Melbourne, Florida, Beth (Pete) Peterson of Palm Bay, FL, Anthony "Tony" Ahonen of Indialantic, Florida, and Carrie Ahonen of Denver, Colorado; grandchildren Christopher Ahonen of Eustis, Florida, Hillary (Raymond) Downen of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Sydney and Samantha Peterson of Palm Bay , Florida; and great-grandchildren Haedyn, Brody, Jaelyn, and Janessa.

She is preceded in death by her husband Robert Ahonen, and her parents Feryle and Helen Hanson.

Funeral service will be Friday, September 16th at 1:00 P.M. at Ammen Funeral Home on Hickory St. in Melbourne, Florida.

Carol will be remembered for her loving character, creativity, and kindness.