1930 – Norman Keith Ahrendt – 2019
Norman was born on August 20, 1930 in Luverne, Minnesota to Louis and Cora (Nelson) Ahrendt. He attended public school in Luverne where he was a stellar athlete. While a senior in high school, he entered the Army National Guard. He graduated from the Luverne High School with the Class of 1948. Norman went on to attend the Worthington Junior College where he received his associate’s degree. He then went on to continue his college studies at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. On June 24, 1951, Norman was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Jean Ellen Juhl. Norman’s college education was interrupted by the Korean War. He proudly and bravely served his country in the United States Army on the battle lines of Korea. Norman’s courageous military service was honored with his being awarded the distinguished Bronze Star. Upon receiving his honorable discharge, Norman returned to Augustana and earned his bachelors of education degree. He and his young bride, made their home in Slayton, Minnesota where Norman taught and coached numerous sports. While teaching and coaching, Norman spent his summers earning his Masters degree at Mankato State University. He then accepted the position of principal of Inver Grove Heights Junior High School where his career spanned 17 years. Norman was a member of the Minnesota National Guard and had earned the rank of Major serving until his retirement in 1968. Norman and Jean retired to a lake home at Hackensack, Minnesota where they enjoyed time with their family at the lake. For over 20 years, they spent the winters in Arizona with family and friends. They also enjoyed traveling and trips to Norway and the Holy Lands that were among their travel highlights. In 2009, they moved to Park Rapids, Minnesota where they could be closer to family. Norman enjoyed golfing and following his favorite sports. He was a man of faith and began each day by reading his Bible. Norman was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Park Rapids where he enjoyed worship and participating in Bible studies. Norman peacefully entered the glory of heaven in the early morning hours of Thursday, March 7, 2019 at the Heritage Cottages in Park Rapids with his loved ones at his side. He was 88 years old.
Norman will be lovingly remembered by his five children: David (Mary) Ahrendt, Park Rapids, Dr. Mark (Dr. Madeline Gartner) Ahrendt, Valley Center, CA, Christine (Arne) Haugen, Oslo, Norway, Nancy (Robert) Hammerstrom, Akeley, MN, and Thomas (Angela) Ahrendt, Nevis, MN; 14 precious grandchildren: Sarah, Ryan (Elizabeth), Nathan and Michaela Ahrendt; Benjamin and Hannah Ahrendt; Ole Christian and Thomas Haugen; Brandon Hammerstrom; Cambria, Katya, Annalise, Ian and Austin Ahrendt; three great-granddaughters: Mabel Grace, Mary Kate and Carolyn Michelle Ahrendt; one brother, Ronald (Lois) Ahrendt; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Norman was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Jean Ellen in 2014; one granddaughter, Michelle Ahrendt and one great-grandson, Matthew Ahrendt.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 15, 2019 at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Park Rapids, MN with the Reverend Stephen Norby officiating. The organist will be Martha Thompson. Special music will be provided by Angela, Cambria and Annalise Ahrendt. The casket bearers will be Norman’s grandsons. Military honors will be provided by the Star of The North Marine Corps League under the command of David Free. Interment will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 18, 2019 with a private ceremony, at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery at Ft. Ripley, MN. Memorials are preferred to the Deep Portage Conservative Reserve (Hackensack MN), an outdoor learning center where they volunteered many hours.
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