Duane Walter Ahrens

Duane Walter Ahrens, age 77, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, passed away on January 6, 2017 surrounded by his family at home. He was born on August 29, 1939, in Manchester, Mich., the son of the late Walter and Frieda (Wahr) Ahrens. He married Carol Sue Rutherford on February 13, 1960, at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Tecumseh, Mich.

Duane retired as a Supervisor at Johnson Controls in Manchester, Mich. Duane loved country music, fishing, gardening, baking, woodworking, restoring automobiles, puzzles, watching the Red Wings, and camping throughout Michigan with his family. Duane and Carol enjoyed spending time at their cottage on Lake Gilead in the summers. He was truly a jack-of-all-trades and mastered them all. Duane was always there for anyone who needed help.

 Duane is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his children, Steven (Debbie) Ahrens of Tecumseh, Mich., Susan (Mark) Ahrens of Bridgewater, Mich., and Dana (Jeff) Riedberger of Tecumseh, Mich.; his grandchildren, Joshua (Rachelle) Ahrens, Lindsey Riedberger, Nicole (Aaron) Seeley, Andrew (Tori) Hughes, Jacob Ahrens and Matthew Riedberger; great-grandchildren, Kristin, Elijah, Bella, Carter, Brooklyn and Greyson; his brother, Gerald Ahrens; his sister, Darlene (Pete) Minor; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Joel and Debbie Rutherford.

Duane was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Kristin in 1972; sisters, Joan Cavender and Marilyn Clark; and sister-in-law, Betty Ahrens.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Duane’s life will be planned at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Hospice.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.handlerfuneralhomes.com.