Barbara Ahlo, a former Hawaii Newspaper Agency graphics advertising director who spent 40 years working in the composing rooms of Honolulu's daily newspapers, is remembered for her cheerful disposition and positive attitude.

"Nothing ever bothered her. She'd always say, 'If it's meant to be, it's meant to be,' " Rudy Ahlo said of his wife of 41 years, who died in his arms Nov. 16 at their Kailua home after a long illness.

Barbara Ahlo was 67.

A Kaimuki High graduate and former songleader, she started her newspaper career in September 1958 and became a proofreader in February 1965.

"She was a stickler for things, an honest and forthright person," said June Cummings, a longtime friend and former co-worker. "She was a beautiful lady, kind and caring, just a sweetheart."

Ahlo's service will be Dec. 13 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Kailua. Visitation is from 9:30 to 11a.m. with Mass to follow.

Survivors include husband, Rudy; son, Keoni; daughters, Michele Trujillo and Lynn Ahlo; sister, Betty Jones; half-sisters, Marie Navales and Pamela Young; half-brothers, Robert and Teddy Kapoi, Richard Vierra, and four grandchildren.