Former New Bremen resident Walter C. Ahlers, 89, died at 9:25 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008, at Heritage Manor Nursing Center, Minster.

He was born Aug. 30, 1918, in New Bremen, to Frank and Emma Heinfeld Ahlers. On June 19, 1943, he married Betty E. Roth, who died Dec. 30, 2001.

Survivors are two sons, Mike (Trina), Milton, Fla., and Jeff (Jill), all of New Bremen; three daughters, Judy (Vern) Schwieterman, Largo, Fla., and Lois (Mike) Elking and Susan (Bob) Kramer, all of New Bremen; 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Deceased are a son, Tommy; and an infant sister.

He was a farmer and worked at the former Lock Two Mills near New Bremen. He was a member of the St. Peter's Church, caretaker of the Willow Grove Cemetery and a member of the Home Benefit Association, all of New Bremen.

Services are 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home, New Bremen, the Rev. Stephen Wills officiating. Burial is at Willow Grove Cemetery.

Calling is 3-7 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's activity fund at Heritage Manor Nursing Center.