Eric Ohlsen 1961-2023

Eric Dwight Ohlsen, 62, of Whiting, passed away suddenly Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, in Holton, with family by his side.

He was born April 9, 1961, in Horton, the son of Bernard and Betty (Keeler) Ohlsen. 

Eric graduated from Jackson Heights High School in 1979. He was a lifelong farmer and stockman, beginning at an early age on the family farm. He was also co-owner and operator of the family business, along with his father and brother (Dean), Ohlsen Construction. Eric and his wife, Jenny, moved to California, continuing Ohlsen Construction from 1984 to 1998. In 1998, he returned home to join his father and brother in the business until present. 

Eric married Jennifer L. “Jenny” Hutfles on Aug. 18, 1984, in Wetmore. They celebrated more than 39 years of marriage. 

Survivors include his wife, Jenny, of the home; his father, Bernard Ohlsen, of Holton; two sons, Heath B. Ohlsen (Minta) of Netawaka and Steve M. Ohlsen of Whiting; a sister, Nancy Blum (Mark) of Whiting; a sister-in-law, Karen Ohlsen of Soldier; and two grandkids, Eli and Macey. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Ohlsen; and a brother, Dean S. Ohlsen. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in Springhill Cemetery in Whiting. Family will greet friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Eric will lie in state Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Memorials may be given to Jennifer Ohlsen for the benefit of his grandkids, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

(PAID OBITUARY)