In Memoriam: Edward H. Ahern, 80
20 Years at Chase Manhattan, Later Chair of ABA
Edward H. Ahern, 80, of Manasquan, NJ, died at home on May 16, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. He spent 20 years at Chase Manhattan and eventually chaired the American Bankers Association.
Born in Jersey City, NJ, he was the oldest in a long line of cousins and loved his role as the “king” and enjoyed a lifelong bond with them. He graduated from St. Aedan’s Grammar School and, after a rather unsuccessful stint at Essex Catholic, he transferred to Lincoln High School where he graduated. He contracted polio at the age of 12.
Ahern began his career in banking with Chase Manhattan Bank in 1963. During his time with the bank, he earned his BS in economics from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City. After 20 years at Chase Manhattan, he took a position with Bankers Trust, heading trust and security operations. Four years later, he moved on to Constantin Control Associates, Jersey City, NJ, where he became chairman and CEO, and remained there until his retirement.
Ahern served as president and a coach of the Spring Lake/Sea Girt Little League, a member of the Sea Girt Town Council and Council President. He served as Mayor of Sea Girt for 12 years. He was named “Mayor Emeritus” and inducted into the N.J. Republican Mayor Hall of Fame. He enjoyed an active role in The Republican Club and loved giving his annual Memorial Day speech at the Sea Girt parade.
Among his survivors are his wife of 55 years, Kathleen Ahern, four children and 13 grandchildren.