Richard M. Ahlgren of Waukesha died unexpectedly Saturday, Dec. 26, 2009, at Waukesha Memorial Hospital at the age of 77. He was born in Rockford, Ill., on July 30, 1932, the son of William B. and Rose (nee Mattoon) Ahlgren.
    He was a graduate of East High School in Rockford and went on to receive a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Illinois. Richard was a member of the American Society of Professional Engineers. He worked for AquaChem for 25 years until he started his own business, where he traveled the world lecturing in water technology. He also volunteered in assisting underdeveloped countries with water technology. Richard was an active member of the Waukesha Bible Church for more than 50 years. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who always put his family first. Richard will be forever remembered for his gentle, caring and appreciative nature, his willingness to encourage and serve others, and for being a great listener.
    He will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Claudette of Waukesha; his children, Terri (Dave) Doyle of Picayune, Miss., Wendy (Mike) Kee of Anderson, Ind., Scott (Lynette) Ahlgren of Delafield and Brad (Anna) Ahlgren of Apollo Beach, Fla.; and his seven grandchildren, Jesse Doyle, Ian Kee, Alana Kee, Cathylynne Ahlgren, Laura Ahlgren, Will Ahlgren and Maddie Ahlgren. He is further survived by his sister, Roselyn Westman of Rockford, along with other relatives and friends.
    He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers and sisters.
    Visitation was held from 10 a.m. until the 11:30 a.m. funeral service today, Dec. 29, at Waukesha Bible Church, S53-W24079 Glendale Road, Waukesha. The Rev. Patrick Griffiths and the Rev. Tom Hocking officiated. Graveside services took place at Prairie Home Cemetery.
    For further information, please call Randle-Dable Funeral, Cremation and Preplanning Services at 547-4035 or go to www.waukeshafunerals.com for directions or to leave an online tribute.