Gospel Herald Obituaries - December, 1912

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Gospel Herald - Volume V, Number 36 - December 5, 1912 - page 575

Hiel. - Clara (Whiting) Hiel departed this life Nov. 9, at her home north of North Lima, O., (Mahoning Co.) at the age of 40 y. 5 m. 25 d. She was taken into the home of Bro. and Sister Noah Blosser when but a child and lived with them until her marriage, and part of the time since. She united with the Mennonite Church about 12 years ago. Funeral services were in charge of A. J. Steiner and Allen Rickert, held at the North Lima Church.

Gerber. - Ralph, son of Levi and Martha Gerber, was born Feb. 22, 1904; died Nov. 12, 1912; aged 8 y. 8 m. 20 d. He leaves to mourn his early departure father, mother, 5 brothers, 3 sisters and a host of relatives and friends. One brother and 1 sister preceded him. He had diphtheria and they had to bury him without a service. He also got paralysis of the heart about three weeks before he died. Jesus said, "Let the children come to me." Funeral service later. Burial at the Walnut Creek A. M. Church, Shanesville, Ohio.

Pfile. - Elizabeth Pfile was born Nov, 26, 1848; died Nov. 24, 1912; aged 63 y. 11 m. 28 d. She was united in marriage to Matthias Pfile Dec. 3, 1867, who preceded her to the spirit world eight years ago. To this union were born nine children, of whom all survive and are mourning the loss of a kind and loving mother. Also one brother and one sister are living. She was a faithful and consistent member of the Mennonite Church for many years. Funeral services were conducted by the brethren E. M. Shellenberger and S. E. Graybill.

Hochstetler. - Claude, son of H. W. and Artie Hochstetler was born June 10, 1902; died Nov. 15, 1912; aged 10 y. 5 m. 5 d. He leaves to mourn his early departure father, mother, 3 brothers, 2 sisters, grandparents on both sides, and great-grandparents on the father's side. He was the oldest of the children. His sickness lasted only a few days. A week before his burial he fell from a small stack at his uncle's place. He died of tramatic paralysis due to the fall. He was buried on Nov. 17. A large concourse of friends attended the funeral services, which were conducted by S. H. Miller in English from Isa. 40:11 and in German by Corsan Mast. Buried at the Walnut Creek A. M. Church, Shanesville, Ohio.

Transcriber's note: "tramatic", is spelled as in original

Blosser. - Noah Blosser died Nov. 14, 1912; aged 91 y. 8 m. 11 d. He was born in Rockingham Co., Va., March 3, 1821. He was married to Mary Nold, who preceded him to the spirit world 13 years ago. Most of his life was spent in Mahoning Co., O., on his farm, but a number of years ago he left the farm and moved to Leetonia, Columbia Co., at which place he died. He was an active member of the Mennonite Church since his early married life. Funeral service was held at Midway. Services conducted by A. J. Steiner, assisted by David Lehman and Allen Rickert.

Rice. - Mary Rice was born in Huron Co., Canada, Sept. 29, 1885; died at Berne, Huron Co., Mich., Nov. 23, 1912; aged 27 y. 1 m. 25 d. She leaves to mourn her early departure a sorrowful father, mother, 3 sisters, and 1 brother. Two brothers have preceded her to the spiritual home. She united with the Mennonite Church in her youth and lived a faithful Christian life till called to her eternal home. She will be greatly missed by her many friends and the sweet hymns she used to sing will long be remembered. Funeral services conducted by Bro. C. Schrock in German. Text, John 11. Followed in English by Bro. P. Ropp. Text, Prov. 27:1, John 11:28. The body was laid to rest in the Mennonite cemetery.

Zimmerman. - Henry W. Zimmerman was born in York Co., Pa., Sept. 29, 1832; died Oct. 24, 1912; at Eberly's Mills; aged 80 y. 25 d. He lived in Cumberland Co., for the last 47 years. He is survived by a widow and 4 sons (one son preceded him), 5 grandchildren, also 1 sister and 6 brothers, besides many friends. He was a kind husband and father and a good neighbor and will be much missed in the community and in the Mennonite Church of which he was a member for fifty years. He was very active for a man of his age until Mar. 1, when he fell from a wagon and broke a bone in his limb, he partly recovered from that when pneumonia developed and death claimed him in forty-eight hours. Funeral services on the 27th at the Slate Hill Church conducted by John H. Mosemann and Samuel Hess. Text, Rom. 6:23. Interment in the Slate Hill cemetery.

Brandeberry. - Samuel Raymond, son of John and Lida Brandeberry fell asleep in Jesus Nov. 1, 1912, at their home in West Liberty, O.; aged 13 y. 8 m. 25 d. He was sick only one week with appendicitis. The deceased leaves to mourn his sad departure a bereaved father and mother, 3 brothers and 2 sisters. How sad to think that one so young, with a life so full of promise should be called away so soon. But as the Lord giveth so He taketh, and again we realize how uncertain life is and how sure is death. The funeral services were conducted at the Copperville Freewill Baptist Church by T. J. Mawhorter and interment in the cemetery nearby.
Samuel dear, how much we miss thee,
In our earthly home below;
But with joy we hope to great thee,
When we home to Jesus go.

Schrock. - John Harvey Schrock was born Nov. 29, 1880; died Nov. 14, 1912: aged 31 y. 11 m. 15 d. He was married to Sister Amanda Helmuth Dec. 20, 1903. This union was blessed with 3 children. They with his bereaved widow, father, mother, 3 brothers, 5 sisters and his many friends mourn his departure. Bro. Harvey was somewhat afflicted for over a year and had undergone an operation for appendicitis one month ago and was seemingly improving until a few days before his departure he was taken seriously ill and soon passed to the great beyond. His life was that of an honest, quiet, pious, Christian. He was a consistent member of the Sycamore A. M. congregation. Funeral Nov. 17, conducted at the house by C. A. Hartzler from John 14:1-6; I Thes. 4:13-18, at the church by J. J. Hartzler, II Cor. 5:1-10, by J. C. Driver, James 4:14, second clause, and concluding remarks by C. A. Hartzler. Interment in Clearfork cemetery.

Gehman. - Pre. Solomon B. Gehman was born July 21, 1841; died at his home near Waterloo, Ont., Nov. 19, 1912; aged 71 y. 3 m. 28 d. About 30 years ago he was ordained to the ministry in the Mennonite Church, in which calling we believe he was faithful in performing his duties. He was in good health, until about 3 months ago, when he was stricken down with a complication of diseases causing his death. He was a powerful speaker, full of Spirit and life, and no sacrifice was too great by day nor night, in going out, especially in bringing the lost to Christ. The writer is especially impressed in remembering the time (about 27 years ago) when Bro. Gehman and different others came into our midst holding the first evening meetings, as we then called them, when quite a number of us became willing to accept Christ as our Savior. In this Bro. Gehman was an instrument and we believe there will be stars in his crown. Funeral was held on Nov. 21st. Services at the house by Noah Hunsberger and at the Waterloo Church by Jonas Snider in German, and Noah Stauffer in English, from II Tim. 6:8. Buried at the David Eby cemetery. He is survived by the widow, 3 sons and 2 daughters; one son, John Allen preceded him.

Harman. - Daisy E. Harman, daughter of Sister Armeta Harman of near Lanesville, W. Va., died Nov. 19, 1912; aged 21 y. 11 m. 26 d. After having suffered for about six weeks with typhoid fever the disease finally resulted in a form of appendicitis. This finally ended her physical life. All her life she had an ideal moral character. She had merited a No. 3 certificate for teaching school in W. Va., and had taught one year with excellent success, but it is thought that the up and down journey to and from her school during last winter was the cause of her sickness. During her sickness her submission and patience became so marked that some said she is converted, but as before her sickness so still when the minister of the Gospel came he found her unsurrendered on just a few points in I Cor. 11 and 1 Pet. 3:3, 4; 1 Tim. 2:9, 10. He, with the brethren C. Good and Abram Simmers, considered this far from a complete surrender and therefore could not administer Christian baptism and sanction church fellowship until from a willing heart all the Word or all of God was accepted. She requested a preaching service of Bro. Good who preached from Acts 3:19, which brought the desired result. May this be a testimony again as it is where it stands in the Lord. Her surrender was so complete and the blessing likewise, that it is bringing similar blessing to all who come in touch with her experience, the writer no exception. From the morning of the 6th of Nov. when she was born of God, until the 19th when she died, forming the beginning of her eternal life, she was a light and a living example of Christian piety to all who met her in her room; and even though the Lord has taken her home in youthful days and we miss her in her home, her congregation and in her neighborhood yet we say, "Thy will be done," for in His wisdom she was ripe for heaven and her work for Him on earth was considered very great by many who came in touch with her in her Christian life. Amen. -- H. B. K.

Transcribed by Carl Metzler, Indiana

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Gospel Herald - Volume V, Number 37 - December 12, 1912 - page 590, 591

Nolt. - Barbara Nolt, widow of the late Joseph Nolt, of near Farmersville, Pa., was born July 1, 1849; died after an operation on Thanksgiving day, Nov. 28, 1912; aged 64 y. 4 m. 27 d. She is survived by 4 daughters and 1 sister. Interment at Groffdale, where services were conducted by Joseph Wenger and Jonas Martin. Text, Isa. 55: 6, 7.

Nold. - Abram Nold died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E. E. Morgan in Leetonia, O., from infirmities of old age. He was one of 13 children of whom only 4 remain. He was a life-long member of the Mennonite Church, his age being 87 years. Five children survive him. Funeral took place on Dec. 4 at Leetonia, A. J. Steiner officiating.

Hoover. - David L. Hoover was born in Columbiana Co., O., Feb. 20, 1830; died near Goshen, Ind., Nov. 21, 1912; aged 82 y. 9 m. 1 d. He was the youngest of a family of 12 children and the last to answer the summons of death. Surviving him are his wife, 2 children, 13 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. He was a faithful member of the Mennonite Church. Services at the Yellow Creek M. H. by D. J. Johns, assisted by Jonas Loucks.

Schlegel. - Clarence Schlegel, son of Bro. Peter and Sister Mary Schlegel, was born June 10, 1912; died Nov. 21, 1912; aged 5 m. 11 d. His sickness was pneumonia. He leaves to mourn his early departure, father, mother, and 2 sisters. Services were conducted by Bros. Jos. Rediger and Jacob Stauffer at the East Fairview Church near Milford, Nebr. Interment in cemetery near by. "Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven."

Miller. - Anna (Yoder) Miller was born Nov. 13, 1837; died at her home Nov. 13, 1912. She was married to Jost B. Miller. She leaves to mourn her departure a husband, 11 children, 32 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and a host of friends. She will be greatly missed in her home and the church, but her bright testimony assures us that she is at rest. Funeral services were conducted at the Martin's Creek Church near Millersburg, O., by S. H. Miller and Fred Mast. Interment in the church cemetery.

Kennel. - Christian Kennel was born in Seward Co., Nebr., March 17, 1888, and entered into rest Nov. 24, 1912, at his home near Strang, Nebr.; aged 24 y. 9 m. 24 d. Funeral was held Nov. 26, with short services at the house by Bro. Lee Schlegel, and at the A. M. Church by Bro. Joe Whitaker and Bro. Will Schlegel in English and Bro. Jacob Stauffer in German. His sickness was rheumatism and pneumonia. He is survived by a sorrowing wife, father, mother, 6 brothers and 1 sister. But they mourn not as those who have no hope. Bro. Kennel was a faithful member of the Amish Mennonite Church. May God's comforting grace abide with the bereaved ones.

Christner. - Peter Christner was born July 13, 1833, at Byer, Germany; died near Aurora, Oreg., Nov. 9, 1912; aged 79 y. 3 m. 27 d. He was married to Barbara Hass, Jan. 12, 1858, in Henry Co., Ia. There were born to this union 10 children. Wife and 3 children preceded him to the spirit world. He leaves to mourn his departure 7 children, 23 grandchildren, and 40 great grandchildren. Bro. Christner preached in the Mennonite Church for 53 years.
Funeral services conducted at the Bethel Church. A. P. Troyer and Christian Geiger preached; the former in English, text Psa. 90:12; the latter in German on II Cor. 5:1. The remains were laid to rest in the Bear Creek Cemetery, according to his request.

Bitschy. - Jonas Bitschy was born May 14, 1843; died at his home near Millersburg, O., Nov. 21, 1912. He leaves to mourn his departure a wife, 2 sons, 4 daughters, 27 grandchildren, 3 great-grand-children. He was a member of the A. M. Church at Martin's Creek. Funeral services were conducted by S. H. Miller, Fred Mast, and Jonathan Hartzler of West Liberty, Ohio. Interment made in the church cemetery.

Shenk. - Mabel Rebecca, daughter of L. J. and Amanda M. Shenk, was born Oct. 13, 1909; died Nov. 26, 1912; aged 3 y. 1 m. 13 d. Little Mabel was a victim of the disastrous fire which swept away the home of Bro. and Sister Shenk on Nov. 26. She was fast becoming familiar to all as a most loving child and with a degree of incline toward usefulness that makes it hard to understand why He that gave hath so soon taken away. Thus her sudden and early departure has become a large part of a scene which is so completely shrouded in mystery that it calls for the most profound submission to God and an attitude toward Him which can say, "blessed" be His name. A loving father and mother, grandparents, and a large number of relatives and friends are deeply mourning the early flight of little Mabel. Her remains were buried in the graveyard near the Warwick River Church Nov. 28. Funeral services will be held later.
J. M. S.

Coffman. - On the morning of Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28, 1912, Frances Coffman, the widow of the late Bishop Samuel Coffman of Rockingham Co., Va., was stricken with paralysis. and died after lingering for three days in unconsciousness on the 30th at the advanced age of 87 y. 7 m. 3 d.; sickness and death having taken place at the home of her son, Jos. W. Coffman, near Rushville, Va. The closing years of her life were marked by an oft expressed longing to be called out of this world, but in it all was willing to await patiently the Lord's own time. She was born in the Smith's Creek section of Rockingham Co., Va., April 27, 1825, and when yet but a child, her father, Samuel Weaver, located on a farm near Weaver's Church, 3 miles west of Harrisonburg, same county. Here she grew up to womanhood and was married to Samuel Coffman Nov. 11, 1847, who later became an active minister and bishop in the Mennonite Church in Virginia. Through all these years of homemaking and the rearing of a large family, which fell centrally upon the trying and often harrassing period of the Civil War, she stood faithfully to her post as director and provider for the comfort of the family during the frequent and often prolonged absence of her husband in the Lord's work. The first-born to this home was John S. Coffman, who in time became widely known throughout the Mennonite Church in America as the moving spirit that brought about the first evangelistic efforts in this denomination. Of her offspring the number is, 6 sons and 6 daughters; 72 grandchildren and 44 great-grandchildren. Of these 3 sons and 4 daughters survive. Of her own people, 2 sisters; Mary (Polly) Brunk, of Elida, O., and Sarah Sharpes of Harrisonburg, Va., are left of a family of 11. She had been a member of the Mennonite Church from early life and though enfeebled in late years as not being able to attend public worship regularly, she always made it a rule to be present it each communion meeting as it occurred annually with her home congregation. A largely attended funeral service was held at the Bank Mennonite Church on Dec. 2, with S. E. Allgyer and Chr. Good officiating. Text, Psa. 17:15.

Transcriber's note: "harrassing" is as spelled in the original.

Derstine. - Naomi, daughter of Bro. William and Sister Ella Derstine, was born Sept. 26, 1911; died Nov. 28, 1912; aged 1 y. 2 m. 2 d. She suffered about 4 weeks from the results of an abscess on her ankle. All that tender hands could do was of no avail. God thought it best to call her home. It is hard to part with her, she was such a sweet child. She will be sadly missed, but we think of her now as being "Safe in the arms of Jesus." The funeral was held on Dec. 3, with services at the home, conducted by Mahlon Souder and at the Rockhill M. H. by William Landis and Christian Allebach. Text, Job 1:21, latter clause.

"Peacefully lay her down to rest;
Place the turf kindly o'er her breast;
Sweet be the slumber 'neath the sod,
While the pure soul is resting with God."

Stauffer. - Milton B. Stauffer was born April 4, 1883; died Nov. 30, 1912; aged 29 y. 7 m. 26 d. He united with the Mennonite Church in early manhood in Lancaster Co., Pa., and later came to Scottdale, Pa., where he worked as a machinist. He was an active worker in the church, Sunday school, and young people's meeting, and felt a deep concern for the welfare of the Church and her institutions. He was married in May, 1907, to Anna Mary Byers, who, with two children, Mark and Harry, survives to mourn his departure. His father, mother, 3 brothers and 1 sister are also living. A short service was held at his late home in Scottdale on Sunday evening, and the regular funeral service was held on Tuesday, Dec. 3, from the home of Bro. Stauffer's father, Bro. Frank Stauffer, near Farmersville, Lancaster Co., Pa., where services were conducted at 10 o'clock by Bro. Benj. Wenger and Bro. Detweiler, and at the Groffdale Church by Bro. Benj. Weaver, assisted by Bro. Banks S. Winey. Text. Rom. 11:33. Interment in the Groffdale Cemetery.

Layman. - Isa Viola, daughter of J. H. and Maggie H. Beery, was born in Rockingham Co., Va., Jan. 29, 1889. She united with the Mennonite Church in March, 1910, and was united in marriage with J. C. Layman, March 17, 1910; died Nov. 26, 1912; aged 23 y. 9 m. 27 d.
Isaac Beery, son of J. C. and Isa Viola Layman, was born Dec. 20, 1910; died Nov. 26, 1912; aged 1 y. 11 m. 6 d.
David Martin, son of J. C. and Isa Viola Layman, was born Jan. 29, 1912; died Nov. 26, 1912; aged 9 m. 27 d.
Sister Layman and her two little ones, representing the entire family of Bro. J. C. Layman, were the victims of the angry flames which, on the morning of Nov. 26, quickly swept away the home of Bro. and Sister L. J. Shenk. Bro. Layman moved his little family from Rockingham Co. to this place in the early part of the year. During these few months the sister has impressed herself upon this community as a quiet, consistent member of the body of Christ, thus asuring* us that the sudden departure of herself and her little ones, who were indeed "like olive plants" around the bereft brother's table, was but a transition from this world of sorrow and reverse to a better and brighter world above. They leave behind to deeply mourn their departure, a tender, loving husband and father, and scores of relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the Warwick River Mennonite Church, Nov. 28, conducted by Daniel Kauffman, assisted by I. D. Hartzler and Daniel Shenk. Text, "Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Set thine house in order for thou shalt die and not live" (II Kings 20:1). Interment in the church graveyard near by.
J. M. S.

Transcriber's note: The above includes 3 obituaries; *"asuring" is as spelled in the original.

Rhodes. - Henry L. Rhodes was born in Rockingham Co., Va., Dec. 8, 1836; died Nov. 27, 1912; aged 75 y. 11 m. 19 d. He was married to Delila Baker Feb. 3, 1859. To this union were born 9 children, one daughter of which preceded him to the spirit world. There remain 4 sons and 4 daughters, together with the widowed mother to mourn the loss of a loving husband and kind father, who leaves evidence of having met God's approval and reception to glory. In the year 1882 this family moved from Rockingham Co. to Augusta Co., Va., where they lived four years, after which they removed to Fauquier Co., Va., where they resided when death laid claim to the deceased. Of his parental family one sister survives, Susan Early of Rockingham Co., Va. He united with the Mennonite Church 52 years ago and remained faithful to the end. Some years ago he was ordained to the office of deacon in which capacity he labored to the time of his affliction. Funeral services at the home on the 28th conducted by Elam Horst from I Thes. 4:13, 14. The body accompanied by the family was taken to the Springdale Church, Augusta Co., where a funeral service was held on the 30th, conducted by Christian Good of Rockingham Co., assisted by Etter Heatwole of Augusta Co. Text, II Tim. 4:6-8, which scripture Bro. Rhodes repeated three times before breathing his last, saying he was ready to go, his work was done. The body was laid to rest in the cemetery near by.

Heckler. - Isaac R Heckler of Montgomery Square, Montgomery Co., Pa., was born Feb. 14, 1837; died Nov. 13, 1912: aged 75 y. 8 m. 29 d. He was married to Susan Swartley. This union was blessed with 1 son and 5 daughters, one daughter having died in infancy. About a year and a half before his death he became paralyzed and although confined to his bed most of the time was very patient till the last. He often wondered why God saw fit to lay him upon a bed of affliction for so long but to all who visited him he proved to be a living example of Christian faith and fortitude. He often expressed his desire to depart and be with his Savior, and we believe his wish has been gratified and that he is now resting peacefully in the arms of his loving Savior in the mansions of rest. He was a loving husband and father, a good friend and a kind brother and his life was an inspiration for good to all around him and to all who knew him. His daily life was one of sympathy, unselfishness and love toward others and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him as all loved him. He united with the Mennonite Church in early age and remained a faithful member for over fifty years. He leaves to mourn his departure an aged companion, 5 children, 16 grandchildren and a host of friends, but we mourn not as those who have no hope. Funeral services were held at the Mennonite Church at Line Lexington on Oct. 18, where a large concourse of friends and relatives gathered to pay the last respects to this departed loved one. His desired text was Rev. 21:7: "He that overcometh shall inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be my son."

"A precious one from us has gone,
A voice we loved is stilled,
A place is vacant in our home
Which never can be filled.
God in His wisdom has recalled
This boon His love had given
And though the body slumbers here
The soul is safe in heaven,"

Pletcher. - Harrold D., son and only child of Bro. Curtis and Sister Anna Pletcher, was born April 21, 1912; died Nov. 25, 1912; aged 7 m. 4 d. Little Harrold was sick only a few days with pneumonia. It was indeed a trial to give up their only darling child which seemed to be the light of the home. The little flower has budded on earth to bloom in heaven.

The little crib is empty now,
The little clothes are laid aside,
And loving hearts are mourning
For our little pet that died.

Go, little Harold, to thy home
On yonder blissful shore,
We miss thee here, but soon will come
Where thou hast gone before.

Funeral services at the Clinton Brick M. H. by John Garber and D. J. Johns.

Transcriber,s note: Spelling of "Harold", in poem differs from spelling "Harrold", in text.

Allgier. - Mary Plank Allgier was born in Logan Co., O., May 10, 1852; died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Oak V. Yoder, in Bellefontaine, O., Oct. 10, 1912; aged 60 y. 5 m. She was the youngest of 9 children of the family of Samuel and Juliana Plank, of whom 5 are dead, one of them, Bishop David Plank, preceded her but six days; four are living: Joseph Plank of Bellefontaine, O.; Mrs. Mattie Yoder of Belleville, Pa.; Mrs. Barbara Detweiler of Bellefontaine, O., and Mrs. Anna Yoder of Ada, 0. She was married to J. C. Allgier Dec. 9, 1875 . To this union were born 7 children, 5 of whom are living; she also leaves 4 grandchildren. In health she very much enjoyed making home beautiful and pleasant, no work or task being too great for her. In the home a mother, in society a friend. Her motherly advice to her children will long be remembered. Jan. 27, 1910, she was stricken down with paralysis, since which time she had been an invalid, but always patient and fully resigned to her lot, much as she wished to minister to others, and very much appreciated the care and attention she received from her faithful husband, sons and daughters. She united with the Amish Mennonite Church at the age of 17 years, and was a consistent member. Her place in the church was seldom vacant so long as health permitted. She was not without her faults as human, but as a Christian she read her Bible daily for several years, and her faith in Jesus Christ as her Savior was to her a source of great joy. For some time before her departure she longed for the time when she might, as she expressed it, "go home." Three days before the final call she called her companion and children one by one to her bedside, and as by God-given strength talked to each, thanking them for what they had done for her and told them to be good to and respect each other.

"Weep not that her toils are over,
Weep not that her race is run;
God grant we may rest as calmly,
When our work like hers is done.

"Till then we yield with gladness,
Our mother to Him to keep,
And rejoice in the sweet assurance
'He giveth his loved one sleep.,"

"Companion, mother, neighbor,
Now is o'er your weary labor,
But in fancy still we hear you
Softly whisper, 'God be with you."'

Funeral services were held at Walnut Grove Church, Saturday, by Bro. I. W. Royer, assisted by Bro. A. I. Yoder. Interment was made at the Alexander Cemetery.
A Friend.

Transcribed by Carl Metzler, Indiana

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Gospel Herald - Volume V, Number 38 - December 19, 1912 - page 607

Horning. - Amos B., son of Israel G. and Rebecca Horning near New Holland, Pa., died Dec. 3, 1912; aged 16 y. 10 m. 20 d. He died of pneumonia and suffered much in the three weeks that he was sick. Father, mother, and 1 brother survive. Five years ago his only sister was buried. It seems a striking blow to the family, but God doth all things well. Services at Groffdale by Frank Horst, Joseph Wenger, and Jonas Martin. Text, Psa. 126:5, 6.

Gockley. - Benjamin K. Gockley of Ephrata, Pa., died Nov. 20, 1912; aged 68 y. He is survived by his widow, 3 sons, 1 daughter, several grandchildren and 2 sisters. He was a member of the United Zion Children Church for many years. The funeral was held on Monday, Nov. 25, with a short service at the house followed by preaching in the Bergstrause Lutheran Church. Interment in adjoining cemetery. Preachers Joseph Martin, Eli Hornberger and Henry G. Light officiated.

Shank. - John E. Shank was born in West Donegal township, June 12, 1818; died at the home of his son John at Maytown, Dec. 3, 1912; aged 94 y. 5 m. 21 d. He was united in marriage with Amanda McClure in 1842 and the Lord permitted this happy union to be unbroken until 9 years ago. There were born to them 8 children . There are now living 4 children, 20 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. Father Shank was a member of the Mennonite Church for the past 18 years. The funeral services were conducted by Bro. Simon E. Garber, assisted by Aaron Martin and Abner Martin, on Dec. 6, with interment in the cemetery adjoining Reich's Church, Lancaster Co., Pa.

Wadel. - Elizabeth Wadel was born in Franklin Co., Pa., May 7, 1851; died Oct. 23. 1912; aged 61 y. 5 m. 16 d. She leaves to mourn her departure 10 brothers, one sister preceded her to the spirit world; also her father and mother have gone to the other world, her father being one of the German ministers of the Mennonite Church for nearly 25 years. She too has proved a faithful member of the Mennonite Church until her death. She had her home with her brother, Peter M. Wadel, near Chambersburg, Pa. Funeral services were held 0ct. 25 at the Mennonite Church near Chambersburg, Pa., conducted by Bro. Joseph Lehman and Bro. Joseph Martin. Interment in the adjoining cemetery.

"Oh, ye weary, sad and tossed ones,
Droop not, faint not, by the way;
Ye shall join the loved and just ones
In the perfect day.

Harp strings touched by angels fingers,
Murmured in my raptured ear,
Ever more their sweet song lingers,
We shall know each other there."
By her niece, Nancy N. Wadel.

Good. - Abraham A. Good was born in Fairfield Co., O., April 4, 1822; died in Allen Co., O., Dec. 1, 1912; aged 90 y. 7 m. 27 d. He was united in marriage to Lucinda Friesner May 11, 1845. To this union were born 2 sons and 3 daughters. His wife and all his children preceded him to the spirit world. He married his second wife, Frances Blosser, Nov. 3, 1865. To this union was born 1 daughter, who survives him. His second wife died Aug. 24, 1889. Besides his only daughter he leaves to mourn 15 grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren and many relatives and friends. When yet a young man he united with the Mennonite Church and remained steadfast to the end. He was looked upon as a strong pillar in the church and he lived what he professed and by his pious Christian life and loving disposition toward all he met he won many warmhearted friends who were strongly attached to him by the ties of Christian fellowship. Upwards of 40 years ago he was ordained to the office of deacon in which calling he served faithfully and was much concerned about the welfare of the Church. Just three weeks before he passed away he filled his place as deacon at our communion meeting and one week later was with us in public worship for the last time on earth. Soon after the death of his first wife he moved with his 5 children to Allen Co., O., where he lived ever since, with the exception of a few years that he lived in Tennessee. When a young man he passed through a hard spell of sickness and his doctor told him he might possibly live awhile yet, but he never could do any hard work anymore. He finally quit taking medicine and began using roots and herbs and soon began to improve and by the blessing of God was again restored to health, so that in the last 50 years he did a great deal of hard work and though never very strong and robust he was spared to a ripe old age. His last sickness was of short duration. Just one week before be died he had a stroke of apoplexy after which he could not speak much to be understood and gradually grew weaker until he finally breathed out his last. For some time he seemed to be conscious of the fact that his end was drawing nigh and made arrangements for his funeral. He seemed to have no fears of death and just a short time before he passed away he pointed upward and said he wanted to go over there. and on being asked if he wanted to go home he answered, Yes. He was the last one of a family of 13 children to pass over into the great beyond. About 8 or 9 years ago when his oldest daughter with whom he had his home was called away and he was left without a home Bro. Levi Brennenmans invited him to come and live with them which he gladly accepted. When Bro. Levi saw that end was near he thought of Uncle Abe and requested that he should still have his home there after he was gone which request was granted. And though he did not leave a large inheritance to his heirs of earthly treasures, yet he always had a home and lived a contented life of usefulness and though many hearts have been sad by his death, yet we mourn not without hope as we have a good evidence that he has found a resting place in the mansions prepared for God's children. May all prepare to meet him in heaven. Funeral services were held at the Salem Church, ec. 4, 1912, by J. S. Hartzler and John Blosser. Text, 11:28 "The Master is come, and calleth for thee." Many sad friends met to pay the last tribute of respect to "Uncle Abe.

Transcriber's note: "ec 4, 1912" should likely be "Dec. 4, 1912"; no book is given for the funeral text citation.

Transcribed by Carl Metzler, Indiana

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Gospel Herald - Volume V, Number 39 - December 26, 1912

Ford. - Harry Hale, infant son of Oscar and Nellie Ford, of Windom, Kans., died Dec. 6, 1912. He leaves father, mother, 2 sisters and 2 brothers, and an aged grandmother (Mrs. John W. Brunk) on earth, to meet 2 sisters and 2 brothers in heaven who have gone before. Funeral services were held at the West Liberty Church, Dec. 8, by C. D. Yoder and M. Cooprider from Mark 10:14, 15. "Budded on earth to bloom in heaven."

Shank. - Mary (Strite) Shank was born Sept. 6, 1850; departed from this life Nov. 11, 1912; aged 62 y. 2 m. 5 d. She was sick about three weeks, being unconscious most of the time for two weeks. She often expressed her desire to pass away and be at rest, as she had long been a sufferer from asthma. She had for many years been a faithful member of the Mennonite Church. At the age of 21 she was married to Christian Shank of Chambersburg, Pa., who preceded her to the spirit world five years ago. To this union were born 9 children, one of whom died in infancy. The surviving children are Abram Shank, with whom she had her home the last few years, Aaron, Noah, Christian, Daniel, Mrs. Annie Oberholtzer, Martha and Rebecca. One brother, John Strite, and one sister, Mrs. Noah Shank. Funeral services were held at Reiff's Mennonite Church near Maugansville, Md., by Bros. Geo. S. Keener and C. R. Strite. Interment in the graveyard adjoining the church.

"Mother, thou hast left us lonely,
Here thy loss we deeply feel;
But 'tis God that has bereft us.
He can all our sorrows heal."

Moist. - Martha Moist, daughter of Abram and Sarah Kauffman, was born Sept. 6. 1827; died Nov. 20, 1912; aged 85 y. 2 m. 14 d. She was in feeble health for several years. In 1844 she was married to Aaron Moist. To this union were born 11 children. Three died in infancy. Moses died a little over a year ago. Her husband preceded her to the spirit world many years ago. Of the children these are living: Abram, Christian K., Belle, John, Aaron, Sarah C., and Joseph. Besides these she leaves to mourn her departure 38 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren and many friends. Grandmother Moist united with the A. M. Church some years ago, and while not being able to attend church services very often she enjoyed very much the visits and prayers of God's children. Funeral on Sept. 23 conducted by John E. Kauffman of Mattawana, Pa. Text, Prov. 14:32. Interment in the Moist graveyard.

"Fading away like the stars in the morning
Losing their light in the glorious sun
Thus would we pass from the earth and its toiling,
Only remembered by what we have done."

Yoder. - Emma Ratzlaff Yoder was born March 12, 1867; died Dec. 8, 1912, at the S. U. A. Hospital at Iowa City, Ia. Sister Yoder's sickness was of 4 weeks' duration, when she was told that an operation was the only chance of saving her life, she wanted to be taken to the hospital. She was taken there in a critical condition and on Saturday morning, Dec. 7, was operated on. Every precaution was taken in order to make it a success but on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2:10 A. M. she peacefully fell asleep only to wake in the glory world, where sufferings are unknown. Her remains were taken to her home and on Dec. 10 the funeral services were held at the West Union Church, conducted by Bro. J. K. Yoder, assisted by Bro. Will Gingerich. Her age was 45 y. 8 m. 26 d. When a young girl she joined the German Lutheran Church. After her marriage she, with her husband, joined the Mennonite Church of which she was a faithful member until death. Her husband died three years ago. She leaves to mourn her loss a daughter, who with her husband feel the loss of a loving mother, besides 8 sisters and 3 brothers, and a number of other relatives and friends.

"The clouds of grief and gloom,
Lie heavy on our head
Our loved ones we had here below
Are numbered with the dead."

Willson. - Abraham H., son of Robert J. Willson, was born April 3, 1836, in Jefferson Co., Tenn. When but four years of age his father moved to Camden Co., Mo., in the place known as Willson's Bend, where at present the Carver postoffice is located. In this locality, Abraham (or Huston, as he is more familiarly known) has lived until death, with the exception of several years at Proctor. He died Dec. 7, 1912; aged 76 y. 8 m. 4 d. He was converted in youth and united with the Methodist Church in which organization he held his membership at his death. He served three years and six months in the Union army. On Aug. 8, 1867, he was united in marriage with Sarah J. Earnest who still survives. To this union were born 1 son and 4 daughters. Besides his faithful companion, 1 son and 2 daughters, there survive 11 grandchildren. He was the last of his brothers and sisters who survived, the others all having died in earlier life. He was known by all his acquaintances for his quiet peaceable upright character and earnest Christian testimony. The voice of his prayer in his own home and in public worship will live long in the memory of those who knew him. In his last hours he realized that his time was short and desired to have his children called. He leaves a testimony of a living hope of a happy place in the home beyond. May our loss truly be his eternal gain. Funeral services at the home conducted by S. G. Lapp and the writer. Text, II Cor. 5:1. Laid to rest in the Willson Cemetery in the presence of a large congregation of friends and relatives.
R. Shank

Transcribed by Carl Metzler, Indiana


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