Ahlfs, J.D. "Dick" 1872-1936

AHLFS, SIEBELS

Posted By: Mary Lou Verburg (email)
Date: 1/8/2014 at 07:44:21

Friends here were sorry to learn of the death of J. D. Ahlfs of Le Mars, who for years was engaged in farming on what is now the Varenhorst farm, one mile west of Craig, long before Craig was on the map. The writer in his early experiences as a rural carrier on Route 2, had many kindly experiences where Mr. Ahlfs was the good samaritan. Especially sometimes as we are now passing through, bring back memories of some of the grim winters on the mail route when a team or sled or buggy was the motive power to get around when at times lantern light had to be made use of to serve the last mile of boxes. It was at these times that the welcome sign was always out at the Ahlfs home for the carrier where warmth and refreshments were enjoyed and helped much to face the rigors of the severe weather. J.D. or Dick, as he was better known to his friends, was a brother of John Ahlfs of Hawarden, who at the time farmed northwest of Ireton. The following item concerning Mr. Ahlf's death was taken from the Le Mars Sentinel:

"Death claimed J. D. Ahlfs, 63, at his home, 408 Second Avenue, NW. Friday night, after an illness of ten days. His death was caused by an embolism in the lung."

"J. D. Ahfls came to Plymouth County when a youth directly from Germany, and lived here since and was a successful farmer and stockman."

"He was born in the village of Wieside, Ost Friesland, Germany, September 30, 1872, where he received his early education. He was baptized in the Lutheran fairth and joined the church at Reepsholt, Germany, in 1887."

"Mr. Ahlfs came to America in 1889 to join relatives who had already located in northwestern Iowa."

"As a youth he worked on farms in Plymouth and Sioux Counties and after his marriage farmed on his own account. With savings he bought land and by thrift and judicious managment became well to do and prosperous."

"J.D. Ahlfs was united in marriage with Miss Anna Siebels March 7, 1895, the wedding taking place at the John Hauschild farm in Grant Township, Rev. A.C. Kleinlen officiating. Mr. and Mrs. Ahlfs farmed until 1924, whem they came to Le Mars to make their home."

"He leaves to mourn his death his wife, one son, John Ahlfs, two grandchildren, four brothers, and two sisters, Gerd and Henry Ahlfs, living in Germany; John Ahlfs of Hawarden; Arnold Ahlfs of Le Mars; Mrs John Klein, Le Mars, and Mrs George Reelfs of Ravinia, S.D., and many other relatives."

"Dick Ahlfs as he was called by his associates was a good citizen, and neighbor, and enjoyed the confidence and esteem of the community where he passed his life."

"The funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at St. John's Lutheran Church. Rev. L.L. Belk, the pastor will conduct the services. Interment will be made in the city cemetery."

Source; Hawarden Independent and Le Mars Sentinel February 13, 1936