Robert "Bob" Ahlheit

Robert “Bob” William Ahlheit

November 1, 1938 – February 26, 2026

Robert “Bob” William Ahlheit of Lowell, IN, passed away Thursday, February 26, 2026. He is survived by Judy, his wife of 60 years, and daughter Kathy Aitchison. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Mildred (Ackley) Ahlheit, sister Beverly M. (Milton) Shaul, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Growing up in South Bend, IN, Bob attended and played basketball for John Adams High School before graduating from Mishawaka High School. Scouting played an influential role in his younger years, as he achieved Eagle Scout rank, attended jamborees, and worked at camps. There, he met Hillsdale coach and mentor Dan Goldsmith, who aided his admittance into Hillsdale College. While at Hillsdale, Bob studied business, played basketball, and was a member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity.

Following graduation, Bob fulfilled his US Naval Reserve commitment aboard the USS Constellation, where he served on one of the Connie’s first crossings around Tierra del Fuego and the Western Pacific. He spent 35 years working for US Steel in various capacities, most recently in Quality Assurance, before retiring. He then started his second career managing his retirement investments and exploring Chicago with good friend and fellow US Steel worker Walter Pluchinsky.

Bob was a lifelong lover of instrumental jazz and computers, playing an active role in the Apple Users groups of the area when personal computers first became available. He served on the Lowell Labor Day Committee, was an avid photographer, cheered for IU basketball, and enjoyed the company of cats throughout his life.

Visitation, Friday, March 6th from 10AM-12PM with Funeral Service following at 12PM, all at Sheets Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 604 E. Commercial Ave, Lowell, IN 46356. Burial will take place in West Creek Cemetery, Lowell, IN.

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