Obituary of Elva S. Ahrens

Elva S. Ahrens, age 95 years, died peacefully October 12 at the Pitman Manor, where she lived for the last 5 years. Born in Mt. Royal, NJ, on July 6, 1927 to her parents Albert and Lillian Shiles. She graduated in 1944 from Swedesboro High School, where she met her future husband, Carl Ahrens. After High School, Elva went to work at the Philadelphia Naval Yard during World War II in charge of ordering parts for the scout aircraft PBY. Elva worked for John E. Hunt, while he was Sheriff, then began a career as a Secretary in the Guidance Department at Clayton High School for 5 years and then 15 years in the Guidance Department of Pitman High School. Elva was a long-time resident of Pitman, a devout Christian and a member of the Pitman United Methodist Church where she served as a greeter, as well as other various committees. She enjoyed traveling with Carl and spending summers at their Ocean City, NJ home, making wonderful memories. She loved playing bridge, cooking family dinners and spending quality time with family and friends. Elva is predeceased by her husband of 70 years, Carl Ahrens, and her siblings, Grace (Weick), Albert, and Raymond Shiles. Survived by her sons, Robert C. (Linda) and Gary R. (Kathy), Grandchildren, Michael (Heather), Steven (Kate), Lauren (Benjamin) Grotte, Christopher (Jill), Mark (Gabby), and Great Grandchildren, Tyler, Blake, Cora, Everly, Grayson, Jacob, Ella, and Jackson. Friends may call on Tuesday, October 18 from 10 to 10:45 am in the Pitman United Methodist Church Sanctuary. Funeral service at 11:00 am. Interment at Gloucester County Veteran's Cemetery. Those desiring may make contributions to Bayada Hospice, https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/1441751. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.