Clark Konold Ahrens

Clark Konold Ahrens, 83, of Columbus, passed away on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 and The Belmont Nursing Facility. Clark K. Ahrens was born in Evansville, Indiana on March 18th, 1943 to Hetty and Alvin Ahrens.

He attended Tell City High School, Class of 61’ in Tell City, Indiana. Clark was a gifted athlete in both football and basketball, playing for the legendary Hall of Fame Coach, Gunner Wyman and was a state qualifier that year with the Tell City Marksmen.

Upon graduating, Clark was accepted to Purdue University, entering into their demanding Mechanical Engineering program and was a charter member of the Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity in which he remained active throughout his life.

After graduating in 1965, he was offered an opportunity with Cummins Engine Company where he thrived and eventually became the General Manager of the Worldwide Bus Business. During his tenure at Cummins, Clark was a prominent figure in the development and roll-out of high-performance engines for the industry. He played a key role in advocating for alternatively fueled engines, helping to modernize transit fleets across North America. During this time, he retired from Cummins after 36 years of dedicated service and finished his career as a Regional Sales Manager for Gillig Corporation.

Clark married Judith Hyer in 1968 and together they shared one son, Tyler William Ahrens. In 1990, he married Julia Lancaster and became Pops/ Clarkie to an extended family with whom he shared immense joy and happiness.

Settling back on Grandview Lake (his happy place), Clark enjoyed many, many years of family events, 4th of Julys and Christmases with his loving family. Clark functioned as the supreme leader of fun for all lucky enough to be in his presence.

Sadly, Clark lost the love of his life, his beloved Julia, in 2023. She was his compass, his travel companion, and most importantly, his heart.

He is survived by his sister Marcia Kreig, son Tyler Ahrens and wife Adri, Andy Lancaster and wife Brenda, Mitch Lancaster and wife Nona and daughter Angie Lancaster and husband Mike Yorchak. In addition, he is survived by his beloved niece, Ahren, and nephew Karl. His grandchildren Avery, Harper and Macy Ahrens, Andrew, Jojo and Lacey Lancaster, Nick, Trent and Luke Lancaster and Justin Gardner.

Clark lived a wonderful, spanning life that should be coveted and he will be greatly missed by all.

A Celebration of Life service at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory in Columbus, IN. is planned for Tuesday, June 30th at 11:00am. With Pastor Jason Hyer officiating. There will be an hour of visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family requests that any blessings or charity be directed to a local charity in or around the Columbus IN. area for the benefit of others.

You are invited to view his video tribute and share a memory of Clark with his family via the funeral home website: www.jewellrittman.com.