AHLERS, Otto Gerard

Died on April 26, 2021, peacefully at home, aged 81. He is survived by
his wife of 55 years, Margaret Langton Ahlers,his son Chris (Tammy Ratcliff),
his grandson Odin, brothers John Ahlers and  Gerry Ahlers (Anouk), sisters
Annie Smits and Tiny Ahlers, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was
predeceased by parents Bernard and Jantina, brother Bernard and sister Helen.
 
Otto was born in the Netherlands and before coming to Canada at age 22,
he worked as a cook on the Holland-America Line, sailing between
Rotterdam, New York, the Caribbean and South America. He graduated from
Ryerson's business school and worked for IBM and Eaton's before holding
executive positions with associations in Burlington, provincially and
nationally.

Otto's crowning achievement was co-founding Wyndham Art Supplies in
Guelph in 1992 with Margaret and Chris. The store grew to become a
prominent independent art supply retailer in Canada and a hub of the
local arts scene.

He loved people, art, soccer, cycling, nature, reading, cooking and
travel. Otto was always active in his community. He was a regular blood
donor and his volunteer work included time with Meals on Wheels, the
Downtown Guelph Business Association and the Rotary Club of
Burlington-Lakeshore, where he was honoured with a Paul Harris
Fellowship. The rare muscle wasting disease inclusion body myositis was
diagnosed five years ago. Otto endured this attack on his body with
courage and humour.

Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, please consider a
donation to an arts organization. A celebration honouring Otto will take
place when it is safe to do so.