Margaret Ahrens

Margaret Ann "Peggy" Ahrens, 74, of Rockford went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 9, 2026. Born July 30, 1951 in Waukegan; daughter of John and Beatrice (Caldwell) Gorman. Peggy attended high school in the Chicago suburbs. Peggy was a loving and devoted mother and worked hard to support her family as a single mother in her younger years. Peggy and Wayne were united in marriage on November 1, 1982 at Long Grove Church in Long Grove. Peggy and Wayne were the former owners of All American Dogs Café, along with several other restaurants throughout their careers. Additionally, she was a waitress at Gale Street Restaurant and Francesco's. Peggy was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, she immersed herself in the Bible and had a heart for helping others; founding Five Gates Church, where Peggy was the true matriarch of the congregation. She enjoyed gathering people together to make sure that they felt loved and cared for, preparing meals twice a week for members and attendees. Her meals were as warm and welcoming as her hugs. Peggy spearheaded the annual Jesus in The Park event, which was held every July before local school children returned to class, distributing books, supplies and back packs to area children. She was a prayer warrior, constantly holding those she crossed paths with in prayer. She spent her downtime reading and studying the Bible. Peggy and Wayne also loved traveling to various destinations in the United States. Some of her favorite trips were to Maine, the Black Hills of South Dakota, Las Vegas and Tennessee. She liked spending time on the water, especially at her camper in Lake Koskonong, WI. Peggy loved dancing, checking out area garage, yard sales, estate sales and the flea market in Chana. She created a soothing space in her flower garden and enjoyed watching all the wildlife that came to visit her cozy home. Survived by her children, Ginger (Ryan) Strader, Laura Castelli, and her extended family; grandchildren, Dakota and Dylan Strader; siblings, Gerald, Donald, Daniel (Barb), Patrick, Katherine and Mary Jo Paulausky; special friends, Tim Gleason and Joan Zimmerman; and her church family at Five Gates Church. Preceded in death by her parents, and husband Wayne. Funeral Services on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at 11 am at Five Gates Church, 821 4th Ave. Rockford, Pastor Tim Gleason will officiate. Cremation rites accorded. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com

Margaret Ahrens

July 30, 1951 - January 9, 2026