Dave fought a spirited two-year battle with prostate cancer. Preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Henry L. and Harriet Ahlgren of Madison WI. Survived by his loving wife, January, of 34 years, sister Peggy Ahlgren of Spring Green WI, Uncle Gilbert, Aunt Lillie, many cousins and countless friends.
Graduate of University of Wisconsin, Madison. Joined WI Air National Guard as a pilot, then in 1965 began a 29-year career as a pilot with Northwest Airlines. Later, USAF duties included serving as Liaison Officer for U.S. Air Force Academy, retiring as Lt. Col. Will miss his 50-year class reunion from Madison West High School this summer. Played in the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps and the UW Marching Band.
Dave enjoyed a wide range of volunteer activities over the years: While living in Burnsville was active in local politics and the Burnsville Fire Muster, Minnesota Zoo volunteer for 5 years, volunteer efforts with MN DNR Non-Game Division, helping collect Trumpeter Swan eggs in Alaska, aiding in development of Woodworking for Wildlife books, on bird houses and feeders, most noted for having produced somewhere over 85,000 Peterson style bluebird houses which were instrumental in bringing back this beautiful songbird. Presented many programs on bluebirds to elementary schools, nature centers, and many bird stores, in addition branched out to programs on bird feeding to a variety of garden clubs and other groups. Was active with Minnesota Transportation Museum for several years, including working as a licensed Brakeman and Conductor, and 2 years as Superintendent of the MTM Railroad Division. Volunteered at Warner Nature Center. He combined his love of woodworking with his love of nature, espeeially birds, bird feeders, and bird houses.
Dave?s humor, enormous energy and enthusiasm for many different activities, touched countless lives, and he will be sorely missed by many. Special thanks to the wonderful doctors and nurses at MOHPA, and for the special care given by the angels at The Gathering.
Funeral service, Friday, March 16, 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Stillwater MN. Visitation 1 hour prior to service. Burial will be at Ft. Snelling Nationial Cemetary.
Memorials to Lakeview Hospice, or Friends of Crex Meadows, or Trumpeter Swan Society, or donors choice.