of Little Rock, AR
November 7, 1933 - December 4, 2023
John Peter Ahlgrim (Mr. Pete) aged 90, died December 4, 2023 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was formerly of Pine Bluff, AR. He was born in Oak Park, IL on November 7, 1933 to Adrian and Ann Ahlgrim. He graduated from Riverside/Brookfield High School and then Bradley University in 1956, with a degree in manufacturing. He began his career with Sunbeam Corporation, in Chicago, until he was drafted by the army. When he found he was to be sent to Germany he and Joan Hamilton married on December 26, 1956 in Crystal Lake, IL, a union that would last 67 years minus 22 days. She followed him to Germany and they enjoyed traveling to several countries during that time. He returned to his employment with Sunbeam in the Quality Control Department. At this stage of his life he discovered a new hobby. The gift of a walnut tree from a friend led to the making of furniture. It was something he enjoyed and was quite good at. In 1968 Sunbeam named him manager of their plant in Dumas, AR where all of the mixers were manufactured. Although he and his family lived in Pine Bluff, and he commuted to Dumas every day, he became involved in many activities and organizations in Dumas through the Chamber of Commerce, which he presided over in 1973. He was also included in Who's Who in Arkansas in 1974. The Ahlgrims were members of First Presbyterian Church, where he served as deacon and elder and Clerk of the session. Among many other activities in the church, he served as a leader of Boy Scout Troop 100 while his son was active. They joined Eden Park and Rosswood Country Clubs where he enjoyed tennis and golf. He served on the Rosswood board as treasurer. Sunbeam moved him back to the Chicago plant where he was put in charge of all the Sunbeam plants in the south, which involved much travel. After 24 years with Sunbeam he left to manage Poly Processing, Inc. in Monroe, La. When the business was sold his family was happy to move back to Pine Bluff. where he joined Stant Manufacturing Corporation as Human Resource Director. Following his retirement from Stant he was called on several times to fill in as Human Resource Director in other companies. He enjoyed a reputation of integrity and fairness. His last employment was as the Facilities Manager for First Presbyterian Church.
One activity in Pine Bluff in which he took part was the Festival of Lights Christmas light display in Regional Park. He joined the crew the second year they were assembled and served on its board for many years. This was a favorite for him and he was honored to turn the lights on one year. Another board of which he was a long-term member and president was Jenkins Memorial Center.
Peter is survived by his wife, Joan Hamilton, son David (Kim), daughter Deborah, both of Little Rock, grandchildren Drew Ahlgrim (Katie) of Houston, Tx., Katie Hopkins (Jack), of Little Rock and Rebecca Dedman of Little Rock, two great-granddaughters Libby and Helen Hopkins of Little Rock, his brother James (Merrilee) of Hinsdale, Il. and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of his life will be held in the near future. If you would care to make a memorial gift in his honor a contribution to Alzheimer's Research, the Boy Scouts of America or an organization of your own choosing would be appreciated.
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12 Condolence(s)
Jay Needler
Wednesday, December 27, 2023
Found Memories of Mr. Pete at First Presbyterian- Boy Scout Troop 100, Session of the Church, and the Cooking Team of the Monthly Men's Prayer Breakfast. Members of the Management Team of Stant Mfg. Pete is now in the Hands of Christ.
Susan Boe
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope memories of a life well lived will be a comforting grace.
Rhonda Cotner
Monday, December 25, 2023
I first met Mr. Pete at Sunbeam in Dumas Arkansas I think in 1975 or 76 He was such a great Manager. He would come out to the picnic tables and eat lunch with his employees. He would talk to us about our children and what we wanted to do in life. Always so down to earth.
In 1983 I went to work at Stant Inc in Pine Bluff Ar. I can’t remember what year he became our personnel manager but he sure made his mark there too. His office was always open when you had a problem or just wanted to say hello. He was just such a good person no matter where he was or what he was doing! I often wondered how he was and I will miss him knowing he’s not here. RIP Mr. Pete ??
Tabitha Edwards
Sunday, December 24, 2023
You will be missed! Sending Prayers for the family during this difficult time.
Steve Offutt
Saturday, December 23, 2023
Enjoyed singing in the choir with Pete (and Joan) at First Presbyterian Church in Pine Bluff. My sympathies and blessings to all the family.
Mandy Brown
Friday, December 22, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with all??????
Rick Farrer
Friday, December 22, 2023
I worked with Pete at Stant for several years and developed a lot of respect for him. He was a good man and it’s sad to hear of his passing.
Julie Price
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Growing up, I have so many fond memories of Pete both at First Pres and hanging out in the Ahlgrim home. Blessings and much love to you all in your loss.
Tom Smith
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Mr. Pete was a kind and steadfast leader of Troop 100. I have fond memories of meetings and outings together. I am thinking of your family during this time.
Lura Hercher
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
I had the privilege of working with Pete at First Presbyterian. He was a faithful member and a hard worker. My prayers are with you in this sad time.
Chuck Fuller
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
I was very fond of Mr. Pete. My condolences to the Ahlgrim family.
Grant Phifer
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Debby & David - I was so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. Sending my warmest thoughts and prayers to you both and your Mom during this difficult period in your lives. May God's guidance help you find peace as you navigate through these tough times. With love...