David J. Ahlers

In Loving Memory of David Joseph Ahlers
September 27, 1949 – October 26, 2025
Age 76, of Wabasha, Minnesota
It is with both sadness and gratitude for a life well lived that we celebrate the life of David Joseph Ahlers, who passed away unexpectedly on October 26, 2025, at Emplify Health in Wabasha, MN.
Born on September 27, 1949, in Wabasha to Joseph and Alta (Hoffman) Ahlers, David spent his life rooted in the values of faith, family, hard work, and community. From a young age, he found joy in the simple, honest rhythm of farm life — a rhythm he carried with him his entire life on the Ahlers Family Farm in Dumfries, where he proudly worked the land his parents started before him.
David attended Dumfries Country School and graduated from St. Felix Catholic High School in 1967. Shortly after, he served in the Army Reserves from 1970 to 1976 — a time that deepened his sense of service and duty.
On November 18, 1978, David married, Valerie Breuer, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lake City. Together they built a beautiful life filled with hard work, faith, and family. They raised two daughters, Michele (Grant) Klennert of Hayfield and Mandy (Tommy) Edelbach of Dumfries, who were his pride and joy. His heart grew even fuller with the arrival of his five grandchildren — Madilyn, Lincoln, and Kennedy Klennert and Jeston and Tyson Edelbach — who adored their grandpa and shared in his love for country living, sports, and humor.
David’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was a man who lived his beliefs daily and found deep joy in sharing his faith with his family. Whether through attending Mass, volunteering, or simply offering a kind word, his quiet example of devotion spoke volumes.
When he wasn’t working the fields, you could often find David in his green and yellow — a true John Deere man through and through. He took great pride in his equipment and was happiest behind the wheel of a tractor, tending to the soil and watching the land come to life each spring.
David had a zest for life that drew people to him. For more than 55 years, he played in local softball leagues, where his easy smile and competitive spirit made him a cherished teammate. He enjoyed deer hunting, selling raffle tickets, cheering on Minnesota sports teams, and spending time at community gatherings. He especially treasured being part of his grandchildren’s activities.
David gave back to the community in countless ways. He was a member of numerous organizations, including the Lake City, Theilman, and Dumfries Sportsman’s Clubs, Pepin Hill Farmers Club, American Legion of Lake City and Millville, Glasgow Township Town Board, National Farmers Organization (NFO), St. Joseph’s Society, and the Wabasha County Fair Board.
He will be remembered for his quick wit, steady faith, generous heart, and the way he made everyone feel like family. David’s laugh could fill a room, his handshake was firm, and his presence made the world a little brighter.
David is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Valerie; daughters Michele (Grant) Klennert and Mandy (Tommy) Edelbach; grandchildren Madilyn, Lincoln, Kennedy, Jeston, and Tyson; sister Joanne (Rick) Kolter of Onalaska, WI; and sisters-in-law Donna (Dale) Lidberg, Tracy Breuer, and Pam Breuer. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Alta Ahlers, and parents-in-law Russell and Shirley Breuer.
Mass of Christian Burial was held 11:30 a.m. Thursday, October 30, 2025, at St. Felix Catholic Church, with Rev. Tom Loomis officiating. Burial followed at St. Felix Catholic Cemetery, Wabasha.
Visitation was 4 – 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 29, at Abbott Funeral Home, Wabasha and began at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the St. Felix School or St Elizabeth’s Community Development Foundation.
David Ahlers lived life fully — grounded in faith, surrounded by family, and guided by a love of the land. His memory will continue to grow in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
Services entrusted to Abbott Funeral Home & Crematory, Wabasha, MN. Words of sympathy or remembrance may be left at www.abbottfh.com