Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Donald Jude Ahern, age 63, of Vero Beach, FL, formerly a longtime resident of Port St. Lucie, FL, and Wilmington, Massachusetts, passed away unexpectedly on March 13, 2026.
Born in Winchester, Massachusetts, on August 30, 1962, Donny was the beloved son of the late Don and Maureen (McGrath). He was raised and educated in Wilmington, where he participated in school sports excelling in Pop Warner football and Little League baseball. Donny enjoyed all sports, was a proud member of the Golden Gloves, Lowell chapter and local adult hockey league. He was a naturally talented golfer who enjoyed playing with his sister, Erin.
Donny was a business owner, operating Dr. D’s Landscaping in North Wilmington until moving to Florida in 2003. There he developed strong ties and made great friends, raising his daughters enjoying the warm weather and a simpler life.
Donny was a large presence and stood out in a crowd. Not only for his stature, but for his quick wit which was always ready for a joke. He could tell a captivating story all to find out in the end, that he made it all up, just to get a good laugh. He loved to dance and would be the first one up on the dance floor once the music started playing.
He was a hands-on dad, always there for his girls; attending school events, sports, and making sure they had the best of everything. They were his world and he loved them more than anything. Not only was he their dad, but also their friend, always protecting them and guiding them through life. His home was always a fun place to be, filled with laughter and good times. A true kids playground. Pool parties, campfires, dirtbikes, bouncy houses, open to all who wanted to come and enjoy. He was all about fun and seeing his kids laugh and smile. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports and taking them camping. He enjoyed being outside either working or puttering around his yard, cruising in his golf-cart in the neighborhood, chatting with neighbors, and spending time with family.
Donny will be fondly remembered as a beautiful soul, both inside and out. He was generous to a fault, and always willing to help someone in need. Donny loved his family and friends unconditionally and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Donny was the beloved son of the late Donald and Maureen Ahern; devoted father of Chantal Ahern of Ft. Pierce, Florida; Candace Ahern and her partner Adrian Montalvo of Vero Beach, FL; He was the cherished brother of Kerry White and her late husband John of Townsend; and Erin Ahern of Chelmsford. He was the loving “Poppy” of Christopher, Elijah, Isabella, and Lily and uncle of Cody, Dalton, and Katrina.
Donny is also survived by his former wife and long-time friend, Terrie (Burbine) Ahern, as well as many cousins, extended family, and dear friends.
Funeral services for Donny will be private.
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