Gregory Robert Ahlman, 73, passed away on May 23, 2025, surrounded by his adoring family.

Greg was born in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1952 to Arthur John Ahlman and Fern Leota Haskell. He attended Lincoln Northeast High School and graduated in 1970.

Greg’s son John was born in 1981 and became the light of his life. Greg inspired John every day with his kindness, and was the model for the man John became.

Greg and his son John moved to North Carolina in January of 1995. Shortly after moving, Greg met Deborah “Deb” Chamberlin who became his beloved wife on June 15, 1996. (one of the best days of his life!) They were the love of one another’s lives, and together they built a beautiful, strong, and loving family.

Greg and Deb were initially brought together by their love of the band Pink Floyd. Throughout their marriage, their musical tastes evolved, and they enjoyed many rock concerts together. They also enjoyed playing golf and spending time with family and friends. Greg and Deb were huge fans of their grandson Aleksandr’s clarinet performances.

When Greg proposed to Deb, he took her on a small private flight overlooking the city. He offered Deb the choice between saying yes or exiting the plane (no parachute included). Luckily, she said yes.

Greg was a talented musician. He played the guitar, sang, wrote, and recorded his own music. He also built and repaired guitars. He shared his love of guitar and music with his grandson Peyton, always encouraging Peyton’s development as a guitarist and singer.

Greg was also an avid painter who began with Bob Ross and went on to develop his own painting techniques. He shared his love of painting with grandsons Charlie and Parker, guiding them to produce paintings of their own. Greg also enjoyed photography and dabbled in glass-blowing. His paintings and photographs are proudly displayed in the homes of all of his loved ones.

Greg was preceded in death by his mother Fern and his father Arthur. He is survived by his wife Deb Ahlman; his son and daughter-in-law John and Anjila Ahlman; daughters Melanie, Amanda, and Natalie; sister Brenda Wunibald; niece and nephews Ashley, Reid, and Grant (wife Paola) Wunibald; great niece Bella and great nephew Ryder; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Merritt and Stephanie Chamberlin; and 7 grandchildren Roxanne, Charlie, Aleksandr, Parker, Peyton, Sean, and Kai.

The family will host a celebration of Greg’s life on Saturday, May 31 from 2:00pm-5:00pm. We invite all who loved Greg to join us at Deb and Greg’s home at 3021 Red Grape Drive, Raleigh for light refreshments and the sharing of memories.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to St. Jude Children's Hospital. It was a charity that Greg supported.