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HERMAN AHRENS
Herman Ahrens, beloved husband of Kay and father of Joe, Judy (Mark), Mark (Roberta) and Maria (Gerard), passed peacefully on May 28, 2024 at the age of 91. He is survived by Kay, his wife of 69 years, their children, his brother Conrad, 14 grandchildren (Morgyn, Marlis, Dusty, Mikala, Nick, Elise, Nathan, Luke, Michael, Joey, Jake, Christine, Caitlin, Kelsey), and eight great-grandchildren (Ryder, Blaine, Cody, Sophie, Claire, Susie, Lily, Kieran).
Our dad was a beautiful person. He was kind, gentle and loving, generous with his time and energy, and humble. He always saw the good in people. Dad was courageous, immigrating to Canada at 18, where he met and married Kay. He loved being part of Kay’s large extended family, the Gottfried family, who loved him back.
As kids, we thought that dad could do anything – fix anything, build anything, help solve any difficult homework problem. As adults, we knew he could. He always found time to help, no matter what. Every new grandchild or great-grandchild was cause for celebration. Together with our mom Dad instilled the value of family in each of us – a lasting legacy to what is important in life.
A lifelong employee of Manitoba Hydro, Dad enjoyed his work, including a long working relationship with his department manager. Dad was a faithful volunteer who found joy in giving back to the community, whether recruiting officials for swim meets or arranging for contributions to the weekly Immaculate Conception drop-in centre meal. He was an active member of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help community, Knights of Columbus, an Associate of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, and active in interfaith peace and justice groups. He loved music, especially jazz, and played trombone in local bands that performed at Bomber games and Folklorama.
We will miss our dad so much but we are appreciative that we had him in our lives for so many years.
Thank you Dad for being the kindest and gentlest Dad ever. You are truly the best.
Dad’s life will be celebrated with a mass on Monday, June 10, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Charleswood.
Reception will follow in the church basement.
A private burial will have taken place before the mass.
The family respectfully requests no flowers.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 01, 2024, Jun 01, 2024
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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I met Herman a few times and he was gentlemanly and sagatious. I recall his insight and think of... 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. - Posted by: Jim Darcel (family friend) on: Jul 04, 2024
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Dear Kay and family, Saddened to see Herman’s obit. Have fond memories of interfaith meetings with you and Herman. My late husband Ken and Herman worked well in the Knights of Columbus. I am sure Ken appreciated all his help. Wishing you comfort,peace and love Kay during this difficult time. May God bless you and your family. P.S could not go to the funeral mass because I am living temporarily at my son-in-law and youngest daughter’s home. I was living in Birchwood Terrace Apartment that was evacuated. - Posted by: Genevieve Price (Our Lady of Perpetual Help) on: Jun 10, 2024
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My deepest condolences to the Ahrens family. I was deeply saddened to hear of Herman’s passing. He was always at Ryder's soccer games no matter the weather cheering him on from the sidelines. Ryder has many special memories that he will cherish forever. Jackie Lavery - Posted by: Jackie Lavery (Ryders Grandmother ) on: Jun 04, 2024
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Our sympathies to you Maria and Gerard and family on the passing of your father / grandfather. Your dad was an active, caring person who gave much to his family and community. He raised caring, kind children as well, and what a wonderful legacy that is to leave. It is never easy to say good bye but know the memories of him are always with you and your whole family. Most sincerely, Judy Kyliuk and Jerry O'Neill - Posted by: Judy L Kyliuk (friend of Maria and Gerard) on: Jun 01, 2024
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Our Sincere Condolences to Judy (Mark) and their families. A beautiful Obituary capturing a beautiful life. We’ll be thinking of him. - Posted by: Frank Franczyk (Friends ) on: Jun 01, 2024
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I remember Mr. Ahrens from Hector Bay West. Oh, he was so tall! Always smiling and friendly. I am much older than his children so was never involved in daily activities, but I still remember him and the family. So fortunate to have him for so long. He will always be with you. Wish I could attend the service but out of country.. Condolences. - Posted by: Trucia Wilson Howard (Former neighbour) on: Jun 01, 2024
