Donald “Don” W. Ahlfeld, 89, of Evansville, IN, formerly of Mount Carmel, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 8, 2013 at the Protestant Nursing Home in Evansville, IN surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 13, 1923 in West Salem, IL, the son of William and Grace (Rosignol) Ahlfeld. Don grew up on a farm in rural West Salem, IL. Don faithfully served his country in the United States Army. He proudly served in World War II, first as a machine gunner and later in the signal corps. During his time in Germany, he met his first wife of forty nine years, Josephine “Josie” (Esser) Ahlfeld, who preceded him in death in 1997. Don returned to his roots to help his family in the logging business before joining the Coca Cola Company. He ended his career with the United States Postal Service. Don’s passions were among many. His family whom he adored, especially his loving wife of fourteen years, Irmagene “Irmy” (Fearheiley) Ahlfeld and their dog, Lucy were very special to him. He loved cars, gardening, reading, cooking, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Don was an avid puzzler, especially jigsaw puzzles. Don had a keen mind and was an excellent storyteller. He was a “gentle giant” and was respected by all. He was patient and unselfish and lived his life with courage and dignity until his final journey Home. His memory will live forever in the hearts of all who loved him. He is survived by his wife, Irmagene “Irmy” Ahlfeld of Evansville, IN; children, John “Sonny” (Mary) Ahlfeld of Mount Carmel, Elizabeth McCann of Asheville, NC; step children Patrick (Kathy) Fearheiley of Floyds Knobs, IN, and Carol (Tom) Balbach of Evansville, IN; grandchildren, Todd (Sarah) Ahlfeld, Scott (Tracy) Thomson, and Amy Thomson; step grandchildren, Anna and Robin Fearheiley, and Eric Balbach; great grandchildren, Jesse Weiss, Spencer, Adam, and Paige Thomson; sisters, Jean Rusk and Evelyn Tennyson. Don was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Josephine Ahlfeld; infant sister; brothers, Ivan and Clyde Ahlfeld; sisters, Eloise and Norma Clodfelter; and son in law, Dick McCann. Per Don’s wishes he will be cremated. A Memorial Visitation will be held at the Evangelical United Methodist Church, 2010 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863. Family and friends may gather from 10:30a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at the church. Memorial Services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2013, at the church with Reverend Dennis Hill officiating. A private family burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery in Mount Carmel. Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to Gentiva Hospice, 323 Metro Ave., Evansville, IN 47715. Family Tradition Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Donald’s tribute wall and leave online condolences, please visit our website at familytradition-funeralhome.
Posted on: Sun, 09 Jun 2013 21:47:57 +0000