Huntley loses longtime farmer, public servant

Fred Ahrens, a witness to Huntley's agricultural history who spent much of his later years chronicling that past, died Monday at his home.

Ahrens' voice can still be heard at the McHenry County Historical Museum, where he recorded an interview for an exhibit called "Voices from the Farm."

In the interview, Ahrens reflects on the 43 years he worked his family's 320-acre dairy farm, about where Del Webb's Sun City now sits.

"You have to love it all, or don't do it," Ahrens said of farming. "It has long hours, but it's a challenging job. You're gambling with God everyday."

Ahrens served on the historical society board for 14 years in the '80s and '90s, at one point serving as the director. Even after he left the board, Ahrens stayed involved in the historical society. The society received his membership renewal form Tuesday, a day after he died.

"I have deep admiration for him," said Nancy Fike, administrator of the historical museum. "He had common sense. He had the concerns of this organization at heart. He loved this community."

Ahrens' involvement in his community also included stints on the Huntley village board and the school board, as well as serving as director of the State Bank of Huntley and president of the Huntley Senior Citizens.

"He sort of worked in the background. He wasn't a politician," said Helen Marlowe, who served with Ahrens on the bank board. "I think he always wanted what was best for the community."

Family and friends described him as quiet and unassuming but generous.

"Being from the 'old school,' he grew up with rules, and they were obeyed. Likewise, he fathered the same way," his family said in a statement.

"As (his) children, we look back at our wonderful childhood and appreciate the family teamwork. Each of us has wonderful memories."

Ahrens is survived by his children, Janet Hulke, Larry Ahrens, Carolyn Jones and LeRoy Ahrens; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at the James A. O'Connor Funeral Home, 11603 E. Main St., Huntley, and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Trinity Lutheran Church, 11008 N. Church St., Huntley.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church. Memorials can be made to the church.