Emil Gustave Ahnell

Emil Gustave Ahnell, 99, of Owensboro, passed away on October 8, 2024, while under the care of Hospice of Western Kentucky. Born on April 6, 1925, in Erie, Pennsylvania, to Swedish immigrant parents Karl Joseph and Frida Eriksson Ahnell, Emil led a rich life centered around music, service, and devotion to his family.

Emil graduated from high school in 1943 and was soon inducted into the U.S. Navy, where he served as a Sonar Man on nine destroyers in the North Atlantic during World War II. He crossed the Atlantic eight times, attached to the Fleet Commodore's staff, and proudly served his country until the end of the European Theatre of War.

After his military service, Emil pursued his love for music, earning a Bachelor of Music from the New England Conservatory of Music, a Master's Degree from Northwestern University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. He began his career at Houghton University in New York and later served as Director of the Art Museum in Toledo, Ohio. In 1957, he moved to Owensboro, Kentucky, where he became a beloved Professor of Music at Kentucky Wesleyan College, retiring in 2001 after 43 years of teaching.

Emil was a pillar of his community. He was a charter member of Faith Lutheran Church and the initial founder of the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, where he also served as one of its first conductors. His compositions were proudly performed by the Symphony. Emil was the organist at Central Presbyterian Church for over 40 years, where his music enriched the lives of countless congregants.

Outside of his academic and musical pursuits, Emil co-owned The Rockport Inn in Rockport, Indiana, with his wife, Carolyn, from 1974 to 1994. A devoted father to his three daughters, Emil provided loving care to his daughter Suzanne during her 10-year battle with quadriplegia.

In his retirement, Emil became a Master Gardener and a dedicated VITA volunteer, assisting with tax preparation at the Neblett Center. He was a proud member of ASCAP, the VFW, and his local faith communities.

As a professor, Emil will be remembered for his masterful ability to teach music theory. He will also be remembered for his service to his country and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Emil was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Suzanne, his brother Ingemar, his stepmother Margaret, and his former wife Carol. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Faith Ahnell; daughters Kirsten Ahnell (W. L Magnuson) of Owensboro, and Emily Faith Ahnell of Denver, CO; his grandson, Justin Ahnell Magnuson of Orlando, FL; nephew Leif Ahnell (Michelle) of Boca Raton, FL; sister-in-law Sue Ahnell of Boca Raton, FL; and numerous cousins in the Örebro, Sweden area.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the VA and Hospice, with special thanks to Christine and Samantha for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Emil's memory to Hospice, Kentucky Wesleyan College Music Department, the VFW, Faith Lutheran Church, or the Organ Apprentice Program at Central Presbyterian Church.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, with Rev. Evan (Charlie) Evans of Central Presbyterian Church officiating.

Care by Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory 

 Messages and condolences for the family may be shared at www.glenncares.com.