John A. Ahlers, 85, of New Bremen, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at the Otterbein, St. Marys, Ohio. He was born on August 8, 1932 in New Bremen, the son of the late Johann A. Ahlers and Clara Wuebbenhorst Ahlers. He is survived by his wife, Marlene (Wiehe) Ahlers whom he married on May 21, 1982.

Surviving from a previous marriage are a daughter Joni (Robert) Burger of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and a son John (Judy) Ahlers of Gainesville, Georgia. Also surviving are his four grandchildren: Brooke Anne Ahlers, Tim (Jen) Burger, Jake (Meg) Burger, Emma (Derrick) Palmer, and five great-grandchildren.

John was a previous member of St. Peter's Church in New Bremen, where he served in various offices of the church, including President of the congregation. He was presently a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in New Bremen.

John was a 1950 graduate of New Bremen High School and served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. John retired in 1991 from Alumax, Inc. while living in California.

John was a life member of the New Bremen American Legion Post 241, serving in many offices, including that of Post Commander. He was also a member of the Forty and Eight honor society.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at 10:30 A.M. at the St. Paul United Church of Christ in New Bremen with Rev. Becky Erb Strang officiating. Interment will follow in the Willow Grove Cemetery of New Bremen.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, October 9, 2017, from 5:00 until 8:00 P.M. at the Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home of New Bremen, and one hour prior to the services at the church on Tuesday. Memorial Contributions can be directed to the New Bremen American Legion Post 241, St. Paul United Church of Christ Memorial Fund, or a charity of donor's choice.

Condolences to the Ahlers family can be left online at gilberghartwigfh.com.