Norman Ahrens

At age 71, "Norm" Ahrens, of rural Tintah, MN, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Norm was born in Grinnell, IA, on July 6, 1954, to George and Irene Ahrens. His early years were spent on the family farm near Kellogg, IA. He attended grade school in Grinnell before completing the 8th grade at a private elementary school in Des Moines, IA. Norm went on to attend Oak Park Academy in Nevada, IA, where he graduated in 1972. His pursuit of higher education took him to Union Adventist University in Lincoln, NE, Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, TX, and the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.

While living in Lincoln, Norm worked in construction, specializing in concrete flatwork and roofing. It was there that he met Videll Wetenkamp; they were married in May 1977 and began a beautiful 48-year journey together.

In 1980, Norm and Videll moved to a farm near Tintah, MN, to partner in farming with his father-in-law, Donald Wetenkamp. That same year, Norm discovered his second great passion: flying. After obtaining his Private Single Engine Land license in 1980, he dedicated himself to the craft, eventually earning his Commercial, Instrument, and Instructor ratings. He took great pride in mentoring new pilots and sharing the joy of flight. Norm remained a dedicated steward of the land until his retirement from farming in 2018.

A man of faith and service, Norm was an active member of the Wahpeton, ND Seventh-day Adventist Church. He shared his technical talents by running the sound system and assisting with the general maintenance of the church. In retirement, Norm and Videll embraced the open road and the open sky, traveling extensively throughout the United States. Whether he was golfing, fishing with friends, or riding his Harley, Norm found joy in the moment and the company of those he loved.

Norm will be remembered most for his quick wit, his ready smile, and his remarkably gentle spirit.

He is survived by his mother, Irene; his wife, Videll; his children, Cassie (Brent) and Wayne (Jamie); five grandchildren; and four siblings, Bob, Dave, Lawrence, and Narda. He was preceded in death by his father, George Ahrens.

Service Details:

The Celebration of Life is scheduled on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 3 pm at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Wahpeton, ND. Afterwards, a luncheon will take place at 5 pm at the Airport in Fergus Falls, MN.

The family requests (if possible) that Norm’s flying friends “fly in” to the Fergus Falls Airport for the 5 pm luncheon at the hanger.