Earl Ahlers

Earl Ahlers was born on January 9, 1952, in Dell Rapids, South Dakota, to Albert and Syra (Schnieders) Ahlers. He graduated from Dell Rapids St. Mary’s High School in 1970 and went on to attend Pipestone Area Vocational School, where he earned a certificate in Auto Mechanics and Technology. This education helped launch a career built on hard work, dedication, and a strong knowledge of machinery.

On June 9, 1973, Earl married Carolyn Jones. Together, they raised three sons, Daniel, Brian, and Benjamin. Although Earl and Carolyn divorced in 1985, they remained friends throughout the years and continued to share the bond of family through their sons and grandchildren.

Earl began his career with Sturdevants Auto. In 1973, he went to work for Kearns Machinery, a Caterpillar dealership. In 1982, Earl and his family moved to Gillette, Wyoming, where he continued his career with Wyoming Machinery. Over the course of 43 years, Earl dedicated his professional life to working with Caterpillar equipment, building a career that reflected his mechanical skills, strong work ethic, and commitment to his trade.

Earl spent the last 20-plus years of his life in Pine Haven, Wyoming, where he became an active and valued member of the community. He volunteered his time serving on the Planning and Zoning Committee and the Community Center Committee, giving back to the town he called home. In 2024, Earl was named Citizen of the Year and was presented with the key to the city in recognition of his contributions and service. This honor was a fitting tribute to someone who cared about his community and was willing to give his time to make it a better place.

Above all, Earl was a father and grandfather who took pride in his family. He enjoyed supporting his sons and being involved in their lives. When his boys played baseball, Earl served on the Babe Ruth Baseball Board, helping support the sport and the young players in the community. He continued that tradition of support as a grandfather, enjoying opportunities to watch his grandchildren play. He made special trips to the Black Hills to watch his grandson Jackson play baseball, creating memories his family will always cherish.

Some of the best memories Earl shared with his grandchildren were made outdoors, riding four-wheelers and taking trail rides in his side-by-side. He enjoyed sharing these adventures with them, making time for fun and creating special moments together. These rides and the time spent exploring the trails will remain treasured memories for his grandchildren and a reminder of the time they shared with him.

Whether cheering from the sidelines, heading out on the trails, or simply spending time with his family, Earl valued being there for the people he loved. His family was an important part of his life, and the memories they made together will live on for years to come.

Earl’s life was marked by a strong work ethic, a willingness to serve others, and a deep connection to his family and community. From his roots in Dell Rapids to his many years in Wyoming, he built a life defined by dedication, service, and the relationships he formed along the way. He will be remembered for his contributions to his community, his love of family, and the many memories he created with those closest to him.

Earl’s memory will live on through the family he loved, the communities he served, and the many lives he touched throughout his life.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Syra (Schnieders) Ahlers; his sisters, Fern DeSmet and Joyce Ann Ahlers; his brothers, Albert Jr., Ken, Roger, David, and Frank Ahlers; his brothers-in-law, Bernard DeSmet, Neil Davie, and Ronald Goodale; his sister-in-law, Lois Ahlers; his grandson, Daniel Ahlers of Gillette, Wyoming; and his grandparents, William and Rose (Haupert) Ahlers of Granville, Iowa, and Herman and Frances (Vonderharr) Schnieders of Dell Rapids, South Dakota.

He is survived by his former wife and friend, Carolyn Jones; his sons, Daniel (Amy) Ahlers of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, Brian (Kari) Ahlers of Delta Junction, Alaska, and Benjamin (Athena) Ahlers of Mott, North Dakota; his sisters, Mary Jane Davie of Dickinson, Texas, and Monica (Paul) Burns of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; his sisters-in-law, Judy (Olson) Ahlers of Dell Rapids, Bonnie (Shefte) Ahlers of Sioux Falls, and Pamela (Dahlberg) Ahlers of Larchwood, Iowa; his grandchildren, Justin, Hector, Leo, Josephine, Ben Jr., Jackson, and Aaron; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on November, 15th at 12 p.m. in the fellowship hall at the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids. Earl was an active volunteer at the Pine Haven Community Center. For anyone who wishes to send a memorial, please make checks payable to Town of Pine Haven. In the memo line, please ask them to write “In Memory of Earl Ahlers – Community Center” The mailing address is: 24 Waters Dr, Pine Haven, WY 82721.