Harry Ahlers

 
Harry W. Ahlers, 90, of Minier, Illinois died Friday February 11, 2011 at Hopedale Nursing Home.

Harry was born January 21, 1921 in New York, NY to John and Catherine Apel Ahlers. He married Janice M. Snider December 21, 1945 in Minier. She survives. Also surviving are; one son, Curt (Mary) Ahlers of Minier, three grandchildren, Trent (Amy) Ahlers, Brian Ahlers and his fiancée Jillian Aker , Jamie (Jesse) Maynard, and twin great-grandchildren, Brayden and Ashlyn Ahlers.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, John Ahlers, and one sister, Kaye Spahr.

Harry was a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University where he was awarded the Order of the Titans. He had played minor league baseball in the New York Yankee organization. Harry served as a B-17 pilot in WWII. He was a 1st Lieutenant. He flew 20 missions over Europe and was awarded the Air Medal with an Oak Leaf Cluster. Harry was a member of the Minier American Legion, Tazewell County Farm Bureau and St. John's United Church of Christ in Minier where he had served on the church board. Harry had farmed in Minier since 1948 and retired in 1977. Harry enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events, golfing with friends, and spending many winters in Ft. Myers, Florida.

Cremation rites will be accorded. A memorial service will be held 2:00 PM Tuesday February 15, 2011 at St. John's United Church of Christ in Minier. The Rev. Paul Thompson will officiate. There will be no visitation. Friends may visit with the family at St. John's Friendship Hall following the service. Private burial will be at Minier Cemetery. Memorials may be made to his church. Haensel Funeral Home in Minier is assisting the family with arrangements.