Dennis John Ahlrichs, age 67, passed away at his home in Oak Harbor on March 23, 2011.

He was born June 2, 1943, on the family farm near Manson, Iowa, to John Fred and Anna Lena (Mehring) Ahlrichs. After graduating high school he joined the United States Marine Corps where he proudly served as an F-4 Aviation Mechanic in Iwakuni, Japan and Da Nang, Vietnam. During service he was awarded medals for Good Conduct, Armed Forces Expedition, National Defense Service, and Marksman badge-M14 Rifle.

Upon his discharge, Dennis lived in California and worked at McDonald Douglas Aviation as an Aviation Mechanic and as a Master Industrial Mechanic for Witco until his retirement in 2000. While there, he was married to Ferdine Ahlrichs and adopted her daughter, Laura.

Dennis moved to Oak Harbor in 2002. He enjoyed tinkering with anything mechanical, cooking and sharing stories and laughs with his many friends in the Oak Harbor area. His involvement with the VFW and DAV were causes dear to his heart. He will be remembered most by those who knew him for his open heart and willingness to help anyone in need. He was always cheering for the success of the “underdog.”

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents and adopted daughter, Laura. He is survived by his sister, Marilyn Dabb of Leon, Iowa, and a niece, Cindy Arterburn of Bondurant, Iowa, as well as great nephews and cousins.

Our family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to Van Brown and his family for the many years they have been close friends to Dennis. There were few conversations with Dennis where he was not speaking fondly of these dear friends and it was clear they meant so much to him.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 9, at 2 p.m. at the VFW Hall on Goldie Road in Oak Harbor. Family and friends are invited to attend or sign an online registry and leave memories at www.burleyfuneralchapel.com.