Ahrens, Henry 1827-1911

AHRENS, BRINKMAN

Posted By: Doris Hoffman, Volunteer (email)
Date: 9/10/2015 at 18:46:39

Henry Ahrens was born in Brunswick, Germany, July 19, 1827, and died in Kingsley, Iowa, February 28, 1911, aged 83 yrs, 7 months and nine days.

He was married to Amelia Brinkman, March 15, 1853, almost reaching their 58th wedding anniversay. He lived to a ripe age.

From this union nine children came to maturity and were all present at their fathers funeral. There are five daughters and four sons: Henry of Sugar City, Colorado; Mrs. Anna Hempel of Correctionville; Charley of Wagner, South Dakota; George of Kingsley, Mrs. Emma Riordan of Correctionville; August of Kingsley; Mrs. Louisa Case of Kingsley; Mrs. Carrie Maurer of Kimball, South Dakota; Minnie who has so faithfully remained at home.

Shortly after marriage Mr. and Mrs. Ahrens came to America. They lnded July 8, 1856, after spending 52 days on the water, they came in a sailing vessel some years before the modern steamers became popular.

They first settled in Kendall county, Illinois, where they remined twenty-three years, they then moved with their family to a farm near Dexter, Iowa, after remaining there five eyars they moved near Kingsley where they have resided for the past twenty seven years. He watched our town grow from its infancy to its present prosperous condition.

Mr. Ahrens was confirmed when 14 years of age and united with the Lutheran church, he was a devout follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. He had the love of God in his heart and possessed that peace which passeth all understanding. He was eager to hear the gospel and to talk about the Holy Scriptures. His faith in Jesus Christ as the savior of men was very strong. His great desire was to depart and be with Christ which is far better.

He was a constant sufferer being afflicted with rheumatism and confined closely to the house. He has gone to his rest, for God has promised his people a rest.

The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon in the Congregational Church with a large congregation in attendance. The place of interment was the Kingsley cemery. Besides leaving the wife and children above mentioned he also leaves theirty seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

The entire family is very thankful to the neighbors who so kindly assisted them during this time of great need.

Kingsley News Times
Thursday, March 9, 1911
Kingsley, Iowa