Loretta “Lori” Mendez-Ahlers

Lori Mendez-Ahlers was born in Tucson on February 7, 1939 to Rosa and Alfredo Mendez. Her passing was in Phoenix on February 3, 2022 unexpected and devastating to her surviving 5 children, Lori/Kurt, Lisa/Tom, Charlene/Ken, Chris/ Deanna, Teresa/Joe; 11 grandchildren, Michael, Nikki/Justin, Leigh Anne, Chris/Joanna, John/Nicole, Amber/Emmanuel, Charmaine/Keif, Matthew/Ashley, Seth, Mason/Layla, Phillip/Nicole; 6 great-grandchildren-Mia, Brody, Liliana, Kruz, Donovan and Kortez; siblings, Sylvia, Junior/Andrea, Ofelia/Billy and George/Becky; including many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends too many to list.

Preceding her in death were sons, Chucky and Michael Jude Loustaunau; brothers, Fernando and Ronnie; sister, Jessie; husbands, Dick Ahlers and Earl Niichel both gave her so much love and joy.

Lori studied many religions with a passion and became an ordained Priest in the Antioch Church. She lived in Patagonia for 30+ years on her beloved small ranch in Mowry. Husband Earl built her a beautiful Chapel wherein she performed numerous marriages and baptisms.

She loved the 4th of July celebrations, the park, the Senior Center and meeting friends at the Wagon Wheel. She missed it all when she left to live in Phoenix – a difficult decision for her to make.

Our mother is now free to explore the universe and see for herself what there is out there, a topic she was very interested in. If you look up at night, perhaps you’ll see her flying amongst the stars. Have fun, Mama! We will see you in time, con el favor de Dios.

Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com