Timothy J. Ahern, 79, formerly of North Syracuse, passed away on Tuesday. Born in Syracuse to the late John V. and Doris McGraw Ahern, on March 4, 1933, he was also predeceased by his sister, Mary T. Lynch and his brothers, Daniel E. and Thomas M. Ahern. Mr. Ahern served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and was stationed in the Philippines. He was a proud member of the Syracuse Police Department, from where he retired in 1986. With his love of people, he was a perfect match for the community relations Officer Friendly program. Until 2009, Tim enjoyed his winters in Port St. Lucie, Florida. He was a past communicant of St. Rose of Lima Church, North Syracuse. He was a member of American Legion Post 787 in Cicero, VFW Post 3146 in Mattydale and the Ancient Order of Hibernians, where he charmed, joked and entertained with his Irish music and accordion. He and his wife were founding officers of the Cicero High School Boosters Club. Surviving are his wife of 57 years, the former Catherine Santamaria; two sons, Timothy (Carolyn) Ahern of Cazenovia and John (Karen) Ahern of Londonderry, NH; his brothers, Rev. John Ahern and Patrick (Carol) Ahern; his sister, Doreen (John) Drury; six grandchildren, Devan, Lindsey, Tyler, Ryan, Corey and Timothy; and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. Services will be Monday with Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, DeWitt. Burial and Rite of Committal, with military honors, will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, DeWitt. Calling hours will be on Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the church, 4112 East Genesee Street, DeWitt. The family would like to extend sincere thanks to the staff of Loretto Fahey building for their compassionate care of Mr. Ahern. Donations may be made, in memory of Timothy Ahern, to the Syracuse Police Benevolent Association, Children's Scholarship Fund, PO Box 11218, Syracuse, NY 13218.

Published in Syracuse Post Standard from February 6 to February 10, 2013