Richard John Ahrens, of Hanover, passed away peacefully at Chapman House in Owen Sound on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 from a Brain Tumor. He was 63.

Born on August 2, 1954 in Hanover, Ontario to the late Frederick "Fred" and Erna (nee Osterndorff) Ahrens. Richard had many passions in life including his family and farming. He grew up working along side his father on the family farm, was a long distance truck driver for many years and later owned and operated two large hog barns. He truly loved his most recent work as Crops Manager at Schaus Land and Cattle in Elmwood. Richard had a special way with people, animals and the land. An inventor at heart, he could always be called upon to come up with creative ways to solve problems, both on the farm and at home.

Survived by loving wife Wendy (nee Messerschmidt). Devoted father to Robert Ahrens of Manitoba, Richard Jr. (Fiance Melissa Schnurr) of Walkerton, Dr. Katlin Ahrens (Dr. Daisy Liu) of Brantford and only daughter Cindy (Ryan) deVries of Saskatchewan. Proud Papa of his "Wolfpack" Jadin, Nolan, Arya, Carly, Sam and step grandchildren Brooke and Bryson. Fondly remembered by his brother Ron (Carol) Ahrens of Hanover, sister Karen (Bill) Procknow of Elmwood and brothers in law Paul (Susan) Messerschmidt of Elmwood, Jim (Bonnie) Messerschmidt, sisters in law Judy (Ron) Schreinert of Elmwood, Faye (Paul) Lantz of Cambridge and Lorie (Allan) Jarvis of Alberta. Special nephew of Don and Velma Knapp of Hanover. Predeceased by his parents and in laws Clarence and Marie Messerschmidt.

Visitation will be held at Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover, on Thursday, October 26, 2017 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A private family service will take place. Interment at Hanover Cemetery.  Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Celebration of Life held on Friday, October 27, 2017 from 2-4 pm at Elmwood Community Centre. Sharing of memories will commence at 3 pm.

Memorial donations to the Chapman House would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.