Allen Ahlers

ALLEN JOHN AHLERS was born on August 10, 1946 to Ralph and Violet (Pederson) Ahlers in Chandler, Minnesota. He graduated from Oldham High School in 1964. While in high school, Allen was a talented athlete, especially at baseball. His love of baseball would continue on throughout his life. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. During his 4 years of service, Allen was stationed in the Aleutian Islands and Italy. During his service, he was fortunate to be able to visit several parts of the world and was promoted to Sergeant. He had fond memories of his service and was proud to be a veteran.
After his honorable discharge from the Air Force in July of 1968, he worked in various jobs until finding his life’s work, driving truck. He started hauling boats for Bayliner in 1974. Then, he hauled frozen goods for Schwan’s Ice Cream, starting in 1983. Deb earned her CDL in 2001 and joined Al in the truck, driving team together until Deb’s retirement in 2014. Al continued driving until his retirement in December of 2017.

Allen and Deborah were married on May 26th, 1979. They were blessed with three children and nine grandchildren. Al’s grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy. His favorite times were in the summer when he could bring one of the grandkids along in his truck. All of his kids and most of his grandkids will cherish the memories of the cross-country trips they were able to take together. Al will best be remembered for his giving heart and his goofy approach to life. He always had at least one new joke to tell to anyone who would listen. He was a gentle giant, who was adored by all who knew him well. He was a “second dad” to several of his kids’ friends and considered some as his own. He had a special nickname for Deb, each of his kids, and grandkids. He loved sending the most extravagant greeting cards for birthdays; he just had a knack for making you feel special. Allen was never afraid to show his feelings towards those he loved; he loved deeply and was loved deeply.

Allen enjoyed reading and watching westerns, playing cards, watching the Twins and cheering for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. After his retirement, Al’s favorite place was Lange’s Café; he enjoyed talking, laughing and playing dice with his many friends. He always had a soft spot for all animals. He will be greatly missed by his dogs Sam and Toby. He was a firm believer in helping those less fortunate; he donated generously to helping veterans, children and animals through various charities.

Allen started his battle with cancer in 2012. After his 3rd diagnosis in 2021, Al decided to spend his remaining days at home with family and friends. He passed away on June 30th, 2021, at his home in Pipestone, at the age of 74 years, 10 months and 20 days. Deb took care of him and was with him until the very end.

Allen (Dad, Papa, Big Al, AJ, Uncle Al) is lovingly remembered by his wife, Deborah; children, Ron (Candy Loving) Fritz of Pipestone, Minnesota, Pamela (Larry) Zeinstra of Pipestone, Minnesota and Shannon (Chris) Gorter of Marshall, Minnesota; those who called him “Papa,” his grandchildren, John Bush, Darian Bush, Shania Bush, McKinley Bush, Spencer Fritz, Landon Fritz, Mikah Fritz, Collin Gorter and Loralai Gorter; great-grandchildren, Savannah Bush and Haven Bush; siblings, Edwin (Judy) Ahlers of Wall, New Jersey, Ron (Deanna) Ahlers of Pipestone, Bob Ahlers of Pipestone, and Linda (Alan) Hollingsworth of Pipestone; he will also be missed by his father-in-law, Karol Pieper of Pipestone; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Violet; his mother-in law, Helen Pieper; step-father, Henry Dirksen; brother-in-law, John Pieper; and two infant sisters.