Cdr David G. Ahern, XO RVAH-1
David G. Ahern January 15, 1942 - February 5, 2020
Obituary
David G. Ahern, age 78, died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, at the Virginian in Fairfax, Virginia. Dave was born on January 15, 1942 in Hartford, Connecticut to Edward Francis and Agnes (Kelley) Ahern. He attended The Loomis Chaffee School before going on to the United States Naval Academy (class of 1964).
He married Linda Terwilliger in 1967, and together they had three children. They enjoyed traveling through Europe and Central America, weeks in Kauai, hours of sunset watching at Columbia Lake, and spending time with friends and family.
Dave spent 30 years in the Navy before retiring in June 1994. During the course of his career, he had various fleet and carrier-based assignments. He was awarded numerous citations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, for his participation in combat operations in North Vietnam. He retired as Director of the Program Executive Office for Space, Communications and Sensors. Prior to that, Dave was Program Manager of Advanced Tactical Data Link Systems and JTIDS.
After retiring from active service, he spent several years at General Dynamics Information Systems and Northrop Grumman. Later, Dave was a Professor of Program Management and Director of the Center for Program Management at the Defense Acquisition University (DAU). Following his time at the DAU, Dave served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Portfolio Systems Acquisition.
He is survived by his dearly loved wife of 52 years, Linda; daughter Christine Bush (Christopher) and sons Stephen (Heather) and Robert (Shivaugn); three grandchildren (Maggie and Josh Bush and Avery Ahern); sister, Sarah Opdycke (Stuart); and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and brothers Edward F. Ahern III and Terrance B. Ahern.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 from 4 – 7 PM, at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, Virginia. Dave’s Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at 10:30 AM, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 5121 Woodland Way, Annandale, Virginia. Interment at Arlington Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers donations in Dave’s name may be directed to the charity of your choice.
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