July 9, 2023
July 9, 2023
Thinking of you today and yesterday. Miss you and love you. ♡♡♡
Ahja Anna Reno passed away July 8, 2014. Family and friends knew of her personal struggles with life, but in spite of this she offered rays of sunlight, infectious laughter and kind words to everyone around her. Her deepest love was her son, Cristopher. She was born June 22, 1980, daughter of Ron Zang (Dexter) and Patricia Kramer (Ypsilanti), and sister to Adam Zang and Martin Zang. She is survived by her son, Cristopher Correll. Ahja was married to Derek Reno, deceased, and was a close friend to Reece Correll, former husband, and father to her son. A memorial service will be held at 242 Community Church of Ann Arbor, located at 410 S Maple Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, on August 2, 2014 at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that you make a donation to Cristopher’s education fund at http://www.gofundme.com/bau70o.
To celebrate and recognize her life, please share your stories, photos, and thoughts about Ahja.
Tributes
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June 23, 2022
June 23, 2022
Hey Girl, miss you. Happy Birthday sweetheart. Think about you often. Love you always...
September 25, 2018
September 25, 2018
Ahja, I miss you. My heart hurts for you and your family and all of the people who loved you. You were so sweet to me from the moment we met, both new kids in Manchester in the sixth grade. I was surprised that a girl so beautiful and funny and popular was so nice and open with an awkward brace-faced, frizzy-haired, thick glasses wearing shy girl like me. We wrote copious long-winded notes. Trampolines, school dances, knee socks, shaving our heads, when you joined softball even though you were way better at track ;), our trip to Germany, sitting on the wrong section of the steps in Berlin, almost dying on that side trip when we got caught in the hail storm, reuniting multiple times after high school like we had not missed a beat, playing co-ed softball, introducing me to sushi. We laughed and cried together. Every time I saw you I felt loved. I hold our memories together so dear and I truly believe that you are now in a place where your soul rests easy and you have a smile on your face. I can't wait to see you again. Until then....
July 8, 2018
July 8, 2018
I can't believe it's been 4 years. You had the sweetest spirit!!! I remember orienting you as a new nurse. Missing my little flower child!!! Continue to rest easy boo!!!
July 10, 2016
July 10, 2016
Thinking of you Ahja and remembering your wonderful spirit. You are missed. I think of you often and miss your smile and spirit.
July 8, 2016
July 8, 2016
It doesn't seem like it has been 2 years since you left us. I knew you only for a short few years, but our bond was great. You left behind a wonderful son. I think about you so often and miss you beyond words. Rest in Heaven beautiful Ahja.
August 19, 2014
August 19, 2014
My deepest sympathy to the family. How long is long enough? Not having a family member around is tough. I just loss my nephew at a young age. He left two very young children behind. What has helped me and given me solitude is Job 14: 14, 15. I hope it brings you the comfort that it has provided for me.
July 29, 2014
July 29, 2014
I remember so well when Pat and I were pregnant at the same time, each of us with our first child. Pat was at my son's birth. A few weeks later, she experienced firsthand the joys of giving birth which she had helped so many achieve. We kept in touch through second children, Pat proudly telling me how Ahja went with her to see clients, taking everything in stride and how Ahja brought positive energy to those visits. May all the memories of her as a child, teen, young woman and mother sustain each of you Pat, Ron, Adam and Martin in the years to come. And may your love for Cristopher help fill the hole in your hearts.
July 22, 2014
July 22, 2014
Dearest friend Pat,
My daughter, Anna, called me today to let me know that Ahja left us. I am so sorry. I have no words to express the sadness and loss that you, Adam and Martin and the rest of your family must feel at this time. I pray for you and your family, for your beautiful daughter and her brilliant soul as she shines all around us every day and twinkles in the stars each and every night, forever.
My daughter, Anna, called me today to let me know that Ahja left us. I am so sorry. I have no words to express the sadness and loss that you, Adam and Martin and the rest of your family must feel at this time. I pray for you and your family, for your beautiful daughter and her brilliant soul as she shines all around us every day and twinkles in the stars each and every night, forever.
July 22, 2014
July 22, 2014
Dear Ron,
Our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts are with you and we sincerely wish you peace at this sad time. Marlee, Aiden, Cassie and Tim Standke
Our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts are with you and we sincerely wish you peace at this sad time. Marlee, Aiden, Cassie and Tim Standke
July 16, 2014
July 16, 2014
Our whole family mourns this great loss. I met Ahja as a young child, saw her grow up, worked with her as a nurse and took care of her as a patient. She was a very special soul loved by many. Our deepest condolences to Pat and Ron, to her brothers, son and all who knew her.
July 16, 2014
July 16, 2014
Aunt Jane thought of Ahja when she heard this song and wanted to share it with the rest of us.
The song is titled "Seven Spanish Angels" and it is performed by Willie Nelson and Ray Charles.
Here is the link: http://youtu.be/x8A9Y1Dq_cQ
(You have to copy and paste it)
May Ahja be at rest now and our memories of her remain in our hearts.
The song is titled "Seven Spanish Angels" and it is performed by Willie Nelson and Ray Charles.
Here is the link: http://youtu.be/x8A9Y1Dq_cQ
(You have to copy and paste it)
May Ahja be at rest now and our memories of her remain in our hearts.
July 15, 2014
July 15, 2014
My Dear Ahja, Such a wonderful soul. My heart goes out to your family and especially your handsome son Christopher. May you rest in peace and may your family be comforted by the God of their Understanding. My heart is heavy, but I know you are in a better place. Rest in peace, my friend, and know that you will be greatly missed, and thought of often.
July 15, 2014
July 15, 2014
I didn't know Ahja for very long but I saw the beauty she possessed inside and out. I was amazed by her physical fitness, insight about health food, and medical knowledge. However, I was most amazed by the love she had for her son Cris. My heart and thoughts go out to Cris, her family, and her friends.. we lost an amazing person who's footprint on everyone's heart was huge. I'm lucky to have been Ahja's friend.. that is something I will never forget. You will be missed by many hearts Ahja, forever.
July 15, 2014
July 15, 2014
Ron, I didn't know she was your daughter! I'm so sorry to hear that. Blessings to you, and am praying for your comfort.
July 14, 2014
July 14, 2014
I had the good fortune to meet Ahja before her birth! She also was there to welcome my son to earth just weeks later. I got to hold her in my arms and enjoy her glow. I knew just a bit about her struggles, and wished for her happiness and ease. I am SO touched and saddened beyond words at her passing. I send love to all her family and friends.
July 13, 2014
July 13, 2014
Ahja, you were such a great friend and co-worker. I looked foward to coming to work when I knew we would be working together! We would talk and laugh all night long. It made me so happy to be a part of your pregnancy and baby naming process. I enjoyed making Christoper's diaper cake, fit for a prince! My heart breaks for him and your family. You are loved my dear. I pray that God watches over your little one and is forever blessed.
July 13, 2014
July 13, 2014
We will all forever miss you Ahja! That time you squeezed my hand because I was so moved 7th street, those times we sang karaoke at the club and died laughing- just because, the tender way you treated Cris "your little man"..I was so sorry you lost your husband and felt your shock and sadness from afar. I was so happy to see pictures of you and Cris and thought " thank God A2 has so many people who are really there for you and show that they care by calling, showing up. Thanks for calling me. I'm glad you showed up when you did. You didn't just save my life you taught me what brave was. You showed me that love brings you back and that one person can keep you in those rooms. I hope all people reach out and change others the way you did. Thanks for answering my calls and telling me that God has a plan and tomorrow is a new day. I will never forget you. May you rest in peace. Cris has a dad that is going to make you proud. I'm sure if your parents, siblings- family- friends and loved ones all keep him in mind his education will be a blessing he will work for with both parents. One here and one as his angel looking down and him never forgetting that special love you both had together. Fly free
July 12, 2014
July 12, 2014
Patty and Ron,
I'm so sorry for your loss and am praying for you and yours. Although I never knew her as adult, Ahja was a beautiful child and may you find multiple blessings in Cristopher, your grandchild.
Krista Stricklen (formerly Kramer)
I'm so sorry for your loss and am praying for you and yours. Although I never knew her as adult, Ahja was a beautiful child and may you find multiple blessings in Cristopher, your grandchild.
Krista Stricklen (formerly Kramer)
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
Ahja was a blessing in my life in many ways. She taught me that when putting water in a pan, when getting ready to boil we should use cold water, the hot water has more chemicals. Eating organic is the best way to eat. I loved watching her with her little man, she loves him soo much! Playing Wii fit together was a blast too!! I also am a life saved by Ahja, she will always be a blessing that I will never forget. May you be at peace now, much love.
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
Ahja I don't know where to start. Your mom delivered my sister Becky. You were my best friend all through middle school and most of high school. I dont think I would have survived middle school without you. Even when everyone hated me you still talked to me on the phone every night. Remember at my bday party when Becky and Matt kept following us around and you said who cares they just wanna hang with the cool kids? Younger siblings! Remember how cool we were with our platform jelly shoes? 8th grade comencement with your sunflower dress? Our cool matching green shirts? Our nicknames hope and danger? We used to write notes every day. You were always clever and funny! Remember nicholes party when twig had to save you from the pond??? Lol. We used to run from our houses and meet in the middle! And run back to your house. And your driveway was killer! I wanted to walk the mile long driveway but you said we are almost there! We were the first woman's crosscounrty team in Manchester! We made the course! We snuck peanut butter chocolate candy from Mr. Vitale! We laughed and joked even when our legs were jelly and too tired to move. Prom!!?? Oh jeez with our fake nails and all....working at Frank's together.......oh what about our trips to big boy like every weekend? Thanks for being my friend and listening to hole sponge and nirvana with me. Feeling so sad that you are gone.
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
My impression of Ahja is from the time I spent with her in middle and high school. She was beautiful, smart and kind. I have only great memories of her and her contribution to our classmates. My sympathy to the ones she blessed.
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with Ahja’s family.
Ahja was a sincere, loving friend and kindred spirit who always greeted me with a hug. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to know and love her.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Ahja was a sincere, loving friend and kindred spirit who always greeted me with a hug. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to know and love her.
I am so sorry for your loss.
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
<3 We will miss you sweet Ahja. Love you forever. Wish I could have more of you down here but I am certain I'll see you again.
July 11, 2014
July 11, 2014
Dearest Ahja, I feel heartbroken that you left us all. I wish I knew you were in pain and needed help. I would have helped save you once again only if I knew. We all loved your gentle soul. I am soooooo sorry you left. You have the most beautiful soul that touched so many lives. I offer my deepest condolences to Patricia, Ron, Christopher, and the rest of your family and friends in this hardest time. Gold bless your gentle soul. I know you are watching us from heaven. Rest in peace now.
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Ahja-boo, I'm going to miss you. You had the biggest smile with a heart to match. Rest easy love!!!
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
God Bless You Eternally. May God Bless and Keep Your Family Ahja.
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
To Ahja's mom, dad, son & his father, as well as all her friends and relatives, I extend my very heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Ahja's shining star often glowed so bright, I'm so saddened by this and will miss Ahja.
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Ahja, your loss is felt so heavily by so many. Blessings and love to you and your family. I love you!
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
I feel so lucky to have known you. I learned to be a better woman as a result of knowing you. Really gonna miss those hugs. But even more than that, I will miss you. Thank you for saving my life sweet girl. Love u so much. ❤️
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
I feel so blessed to have known you, sweet Ahja. My heart is so heavy and you will be missed by so many. I will carry you in my heart forever.
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Ahja, I am so blessed to have known you. I learned so much from you. I will forever cherish all the moments that I spent with you and Cristopher. Sending prayers to your family. You will be greatly missed by everyone here in our Ann Arbor community. Love you!
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
I never knew you, but I heard the heartache that comes with it. Rest comfortably, and I pray your child and family receives the comfort from God they will need.
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Dear Ahja,
May your spirit so sweet and beautiful find peace with in Gods kingdom, if you can will you tell chuck we miss him , love him and constantly still include him in all we do... ☆♡☆
May your spirit so sweet and beautiful find peace with in Gods kingdom, if you can will you tell chuck we miss him , love him and constantly still include him in all we do... ☆♡☆
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Ahja had a great sense of humor & we laughed at similar things in our group... whether appropriate or not. She always had great stories about Christopher & loved him dearly. I'll never forget the story about his blue poo(or the picture of it). Rest in peace Ahja
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Dear Ron, Sometimes after all we do, something still happens to make us lose what we work so hard to keep safe. I feel totally inadequate to offer you comfort, but I want you to know that you and your family are in my prayers. I can't imagine how difficult the loss of Ahja is for you. She was so fortunate to have a father as supportive you.
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Dear Pat we are so sorry to hear of your loss! I was just thinking of Ahja last week when I was working in the garden trimming the rhubarb. The first time I met her was at the house and she cut me some. I pray that you and your family will be comforted at this difficult time.
Love, Jimmy and Rivka
Love, Jimmy and Rivka
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
Ron & Pat, you don't know me and your daughter and I were not close, but close or not she had an amazing grace about her, that even in high school was evident and very kind. I am sorry for your loss, there is no greater pain than burying your child, and I can tell you it never gets easier, you only get better at handling it. Through your ups and downs over the rest of your lives please know that You and your family, especially Cristopher , are in my thoughts and prayers and the prayers of my family. Wishing you peace, and the understanding that; sometimes we just aren't meant to understand.
Corrine Haas (Racine)
Corrine Haas (Racine)
July 10, 2014
July 10, 2014
I am so so sorry to hear this. I remember a fun and happy Ahja who was best friends with my sister in middle & high school. We ran track & cross country together, she loved running, we hung out after school, we hung out with a lot of the same people and for a long time she was a big part of my life. It's hard to remember when we grew away from each other or even why. In the last several years I have only seen her, mostly just recently via Facebook, a handful of times and now I wish I had made a better effort to reconnect. We had a lot of really fun times back in the day, she was a beautiful person. Inside & out.
I pray now for God to comfort her family, her mother who was my Mom's mid wife & a really nice lady to my family, and to her young son who I can't even imagine his hurt.
I pray now for God to comfort her family, her mother who was my Mom's mid wife & a really nice lady to my family, and to her young son who I can't even imagine his hurt.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
July 9, 2023
July 9, 2023
Thinking of you today and yesterday. Miss you and love you. ♡♡♡
June 23, 2022
June 23, 2022
Hey Girl, miss you. Happy Birthday sweetheart. Think about you often. Love you always...
September 25, 2018
September 25, 2018
Ahja, I miss you. My heart hurts for you and your family and all of the people who loved you. You were so sweet to me from the moment we met, both new kids in Manchester in the sixth grade. I was surprised that a girl so beautiful and funny and popular was so nice and open with an awkward brace-faced, frizzy-haired, thick glasses wearing shy girl like me. We wrote copious long-winded notes. Trampolines, school dances, knee socks, shaving our heads, when you joined softball even though you were way better at track ;), our trip to Germany, sitting on the wrong section of the steps in Berlin, almost dying on that side trip when we got caught in the hail storm, reuniting multiple times after high school like we had not missed a beat, playing co-ed softball, introducing me to sushi. We laughed and cried together. Every time I saw you I felt loved. I hold our memories together so dear and I truly believe that you are now in a place where your soul rests easy and you have a smile on your face. I can't wait to see you again. Until then....
Gallery
photo (3)
Carrot Man Cris
Ahja and Cris
Ahja and Reece
Adam, Martin, Ahja, and Reece at Ron and Jane's Lake Michigan Wedding
Ahja and Cristopher, July 27, 2013
December '98- Christmas with Grandpa K and Grandma Louise. Pictured with Aunt Jane, Grandpa K, and cousins- Serena and Emma
Ahja with her friend Sara
Ahja at beach with cousin Teresa
Recent stories
Days with Ahja at Broadway
July 11, 2014
Ahja and I lived together in my parent's home on Broadway during a period of both great trial and courage and strength in both of our lives. I was so lucky to have found her and chanced to make this arrangement with her. She was a great refuge to me.
On many evenings there I would find her deep in reflection and working hard on herself through a book, making lists of ways she sought to grow, in prayer alone or with others. She fought harder than many for water from a deeper well. We went together from struggling through the day to get through a waitressing shift with some semblance of emotional intelligence to exponential spiritual, professional, and social growth in such a short period. She was soon a nurse and a mentor to other women who struggled.
She drove me towards service when I was lost in self. She embodied such depth of focus on getting well that it was hard to not follow suit and attempt to keep pace with her movement towards better. We drank chamomile tea, ran frequently, and fell in love with our respective partners there. A great deal of sushi was consumed and many nights when I heard her bubbly laughter coming from the back porch, I was so comforted to share a home with her.
In my favorite mental image of her she is beaming ear to ear at my wedding shower, many months pregnant with Cris and glowing in the anticipation of her child's birth. She was so anguishingly beautiful that day. So full of that ethereal delicate grace we all saw in her.
I will remember her as a seeker and a mystic in her own right. Ahja, you will always be a light to me. Reece, I will never forget those years and send such love to you and your family. Cris, your mother fought harder than any of us may ever understand. May her epic grace that shone through all of it be a light to your path.
July 10, 2014
Ahja's birth was memorable for me. I was only six years old and I grilled my Aunt Patty with tons of questions about what it was like to give birth to a baby. My aunt being a midwife, and just as frank as my mother, answered EVERY question I asked. I was shocked but in awe of the miracle when I got to hold her- my very own cousin.... and with such a cool name! Ahja Zang!
I also fondly remember how my Aunt Patty and Uncle Ron were so in love with Ahja and excited about every little thing she did! Her "artwork" was proudly taped up all over their house. Ahja was welcomed into this world with alot of love and she leaves this life with even more!
I will always cherish the many carefree summers of our childhood-dressing up like Punky Brewster, racing bikes, playing hide and go seek, and creating our own theatrical performances using the window seat and curtains in "granny's room." I hope I get to see Ahja again one day so that I can remind her of all those simple good times-but also apologize for letting time and distance get in the way of being a better friend and cousin.
I will miss you Ahja
July 10, 2014
Ahja was one of my closest friends and she has left a huge mark on my life. I was so honored to be there through her successes and share in her struggles, as she was for me for over ten years. Her love for Cristopher amazed me. I am so sorry her pain was so great and hope she is finally at peace. A part of her wil be with me and my son forever.