In Loving Memory of William H. (Buster) Ahearn Jr.
Shrewsbury – William H. “Buster” Ahearn, 72, a longtime resident of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2024, after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
Buster was born on November 28, 1951, in Worcester, Massachusetts, the son of William and Jeanette (Connor) Ahearn.
Buster leaves behind his beloved wife of over 44 years, Patricia A. (Williams) Ahearn, two children, William Ahearn and his wife Alison of Sutton, and Jennifer Gedman and her husband Kris of Franklin. Buster leaves a legacy of three grandsons: Brendan, Brady, and Wesley; and he is joyfully reunited in heaven with his granddaughter, Violet.
Buster came from a large family and has the fondest memories of growing up on the farm with his brothers and sisters. Buster leaves behind his mother, Jeanette (Connor) Ahearn and his brothers, Gary Ahearn and his wife Marcia of Oxford, Richard Ahearn and his wife Mary of West Brookfield, Craig Ahearn and his wife Michelle of Zephyr Hills, Florida, and his sister, Kim Curtis and her husband Mike of Oxford. He is predeceased by his father, William Ahearn and his sister, Denise Nordstrom. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Growing up in Grafton, Buster graduated from Grafton High School in 1970. He was a truck driver by trade for 40 years navigating the roads with precision and dedication. He was a long time member of Local 170 Teamsters. His commitment to his work was matched only by his commitment to his family. He worked tirelessly to provide a comfortable life for his loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and perseverance.
Beyond his profession, Buster found solace in the great outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, he reveled in the beauty of nature and the thrill of the chase. Whether he was patiently waiting in a deer stand or casting a line into a tranquil lake, his love for these activities brought him so much joy and fulfillment. He was a proud member of the Singletary Rod and Gun Club, where his son now serves as President.
In addition to his love for the outdoors, Buster loved a great meal and was never one to turn down a dessert. Buster loved to travel. Highlights include a visit to all 50 states, a bucket-list adventure to Africa, and a homeland trip to Ireland. Buster loved all animals; especially his two kitties: Ninja & Sweet Caroline and his recent favorites…the local camels from Grafton. His favorite recliner was not just a piece of furniture; it was a throne where he could relax, unwind, and enjoy the moments of life.
Buster’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caring and loving staff at Oasis at Dodge Park for their dedicated care and genuine compassion over the last year.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visiting hours on Saturday, March 2nd from 1:30pm-4:30pm at the Chiampa Funeral Home, 5 Church Road, On the Common, Shrewsbury Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Buster’s honor to Rock Steady Boxing in Northborough, a program that helps and supports those with Parkinson’s Disease through a boxing-based fitness program. Buster attended the Northborough Rock Steady location for over 2 years. In addition to helping Buster improve his quality of life, it was there that Pat found her loving support network in fellow Parkinson’s wives – her beloved “Hens”. Checks can be made out to “In Your Corner, Inc.” (memo: Rock Steady Boxing / Buster Ahearn) and sent to Christine Awdycki, 29 Woodstone Road, Northborough, MA 01532; or if you’d prefer to donate to the national program online, please use the link here: https://www.rocksteadyboxing.org/donate/.
