John Harold Ahrens

John “Jack” Harold Ahrens, age 90, died peacefully on July 4, 2024, at Appleton Retirement Community. Jack was born on May 9, 1934, in Appleton to parents Harold and Mary (Gerarden) Ahrens. He grew up and attended Appleton high School. Following high school, Jack served in the Army for two years, and upon returning from his active-duty stint, he used his athletic prowess as a pitcher for two years for the minor league baseball team the Billings Mustangs.

In 1960, Jack married Barbara Knabenbauer and the two proceeded to begin a family that they raised in Appleton. In 1984, Jack married JoAnn Seymour nee Young. Together they had a son and Jack also adopted JoAnn’s two sons. 

Jack was a gifted athlete, and loved bowling, playing softball and enjoyed fishing. He especially enjoyed the good times with family at Lake Metonga in Crandon. He enjoyed hunting small game and taught his sons to do the same. 

A night at the movies was a highlight for Jack. He was a huge movie buff who especially loved westerns and sci-fi! Get him a big bin of popcorn with extra butter (and some on the side perhaps!) and he was set. He also loved to read the old western books. Later in life, Jack leaned into his faith at the urging and guidance of daughter Dawn.

Jack is survived by his children: Marcus (Amy) Ahrens, Timothy (Linda) Ahrens, John “Presh” (Jourdyn) Ahrens, Alan (Dee) Ahrens and Greg (Jill) Ahrens; 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. In addition, he is survived by his sister Pat (Dave) Perry; sister-in-law Rose Ahrens, many friends at ARC and other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Dawn (Duane) Ahrens-Trams; and his brother Tom Ahrens.

A memorial service will take place on Monday July 15, 2024, at 3:00pm at Wichmann-Tri County Chapel, 1592 Oneida Street, Fox Crossing. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 1:00pm until the service begins. Military honors will take place immediately following the service.

The family would like to thank the staff at Appleton Retirement Community and Bristol Hospice for being so good to Jack.