Alfred Jirges, 79, went to meet The Lord on Saturday, September 20, 2008, at his home in Dickinson surrounded by his wife and family members after a courageous battle with cancer. Alfred’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, September 23, 2008 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Dickinson with Fr. Jim Braaten as the celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery with military honors provided by the Veterans Drill Team. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday at Ladbury Funeral Service with a rosary and vigil at 7 p.m., with Deacon Bob Zent presiding.

Alfred was born, May 15 1929, near New Hradec, where his parents, Fred and Mary (Faiman) Jirges farmed. His parents later moved to a farm near New England, where Alfred continued to help his parents with the family farm. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in February 1952 and served in the Korean War. He received an honorable discharge in February 1954.

After coming home from serving his country, Alfred returned to New England, and became engaged to his true love, Irene Kadrmas. He married Irene on July 14, 1954, at St. Wenceslaus church in Dickinson. They made their home on the family farm in New England and raised six wonderful children; Bryan, Allan, Gwen, Harlan, Daryl and Jeff.

In 1977, Alfred and Irene, moved to Dickinson. He continued to work on the farm and was employed as a bus driver for 23 years with the Dickinson Public School system.

Alfred was involved with the community and was a member of several organizations including the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Eagles, and St. Anthony’s Club. He also served as president of St. Mary’s Booster Club in New England.

Alfred enjoyed spending time with his family and grandkids by camping, boating, fishing, playing cards and participating in their church, school, and sport activities. He also enjoyed visiting, drinking coffee and playing cards with his many friends.

He is survived by his wife Irene; children, Bryan (Donna) Jirges, New England, Allan (Barb) Jirges, Bismarck, Gwen (Tom) Price, Bismarck, Harlan (Carla) Jirges, Powell, Wyo., Daryl (Kandace) Jirges, Bismarck, Jeff (Karen) Jirges, Dickinson; 16 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Edwin (Cecilia), Billings Mont.. He was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Mary Jirges, two sisters Edith and Dorothy, and one grandson Kevin Price.