Sandra K. Ahern

Sandra K. Ahern, age 82, of Hastings, Minnesota, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Sandra was born on April 13, 1943, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Raymond and Bernadette (Frawley) Wessinger. She grew up in the Highland Park neighborhood alongside her older sister, Rose, and her brother, Charles. Sandra attended Nativity Catholic School, where she formed many lifelong friendships. Popular, outgoing, and full of humor, she was known even then as someone who brought energy and joy wherever she went.

After high school, Sandra began her career and later worked for many years at Dakota County Abstract, where she built lasting relationships and took pride in her work.

Sandra met the love of her life, Neil Ahern, on a blind date at Scabs in Prescott Wisconsin. They frequented the Bierstube in Hastings and it became a place that would remain special to them throughout their nearly 60 years of marriage. Together they built a beautiful life and raised their two children, Kelly and Tim, in Hastings.

Sandra had a deep love for gardening and plants. Whether living in town or later in the country, she filled every corner of her yard with flowers and beauty. Her children fondly referred to it as the Imperial Gardens. In retirement, she happily embraced her role as a full time gardener and social butterfly, spending time with longtime friends and enjoying every opportunity to gather, laugh, and celebrate.

Her faith was central to her life. Sandra was an active member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, where her strong Catholic faith guided her throughout her life.

Sandra will be remembered as the life of the party, fun, outspoken, quick witted, loving, and fiercely devoted to her family and friends. She and Neil cherished traveling with friends and family and creating memories together.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Neil; her children, Kelly Ahern and Tim Ahern and his wife Kathleen; her grandson, Ryan Ahern; her great granddaughter, Samantha Ahern; her brother, Charles Wessinger and his wife Louise; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Bernadette Wessinger, and her sister, Rose Wessinger.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 West 15th Street, Hastings, Minnesota, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the start of Mass. A reception will follow. Burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will take place at a later date.