Herald of Truth Obituaries - September, 1897

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Herald of Truth, Vol. XXXIV, No. 17, September 1, 1897, Page 270, 271

KEHR - On the 3d of August 1897, in Harrison Twp., Elkhart Co., Ind., of the infirmities of old age, Magdalena, widow of John Kehr, aged 89 years, 10 months, 28 days. Her maiden name was Miller. She was born in Heidelburg Twp., York Co., Pa., on the 5th of Sept. 1807. She united with the Mennonite church in 1829, and was married to John Kehr on the 28th of April 1825. In 1835 she, with her husband and five children, moved to Richland Co., Ohio, where her husband and one daughter died in 1848. In 1849 she with seven children moved to Elkhart Co., Ind., where she resided to the time of her death. She was a woman of extraordinary vigor both of body and mind. She was well versed in the Scriptures and it was her continual delight to converse with friends and visitors about the doctrines and teachings of the word of God, and in her later years her Bible and hymn book were her favorite companions, and always lying close within reach. She was especially devoted to her church, and a regular attendant at all the church services as long as she was able to go. But of late years bodily infirmities prevented her from going, which was indeed a sore trial to her. Frequently however, services were held at her home which she greatly enjoyed. Six sons and one daughter, twenty-five grandchildren survive her. Funeral services were held at the Yellow Creek M.H. by John F. Funk, Jonas Loucks and D. Burkholder, from Rev. 21:4.
"The bosom were I oft have lain, and slept my infant hours away,
Will never beat for me again, 'tis still in death, 'tis senseless clay.
How many were the silent prayers my mother offered up for me;
How many were the bitter cares she felt when none but God could see.
Oft let me think of what she said, and of the kind advice she gave;
O let me do it, as she's dead, and sleeping in her lovely grave.
And let me choose the path she chose, and her again I soon may see,
Beyond this world of sin and woes, with Jesus in eternity."

RINGENBERG - On Aug. 5th, 1897, in Kosciusko Co., near Nappanee, Ind., at the home of her brother, Henry, who had had the care of her for several years, Magdalena, daughter of John and ____ Ringenberg, aged 41 years, 6 months 2 days. Funeral services at the A.M. House by Jas. H. McGowen. Text, 1 Chron. 29:15. Buried at the Brick church.
"Dearest sister, thou hast left us, here thy loss we deeply feel;
But 'tis God that hath bereft us, He can all our sorrows heal.
Yet again we hope to meet thee, when the day of life is fled;
And in heaven with joy to greet thee, where no farewell tear is shed."

GRENEWALT - On July 16th, 1897, in Kosciusco Co., near Nappanee, Ind., Henry Grenewalt, aged 68 years, 7 months and 15 days. Funeral services at Yellow Creek M.M.H., on Sunday the 18th, by John Stump and Jas. H. McGowen, from John 11:25.

COHICK - On the 29th of July 1897, near Newville, Cumberland Co., Pa., Willis K. Cohick, aged 48 years and 9 days. He was in declining health for several months, but bore his sufferings with Christian fortitude. Was a kind neighbor and ever ready to lend a helping hand in time of need. He leaves a sorrowing wife and nine children to mourn his death. But not as those who have no hope. During his sickness he earnestly admonished his family to accept Christ as their Savior so that they might meet one another in the mansions above, where parting is never known. He was buried Aug. 2d., in the presence of a large concourse of people who had assembled to pay the last tribute of respect to his memory. Services by Elders J. Hollinger and Samuel Stouffer. God bless the bereaved family.

YODER - On July 20th 1897, in Kosciukso Co., Ind., Clayton, son of Simon and Nancy Yoder, aged 3 years, 5 months, and 23 days. His father had been hanging a screen door. Clayton picked up a one-and-a-quarter inch screw and put it in his mouth, and after playing with it in this way for a while he laid down on his back. The screw dropped down his throat, and before his mother could get it away from him he was a corpse. The physician extracted it from his throat. Funeral services at the Union church by Jas. H. McGowen, from Psa. 127, first clause of third verse.
"A precious one from us is gone, a voice we loved is stilled,
A place is vacant in our home, which never can be filled."

WEAVER - On the 10th of July, in Cambria Co., Pa., of a sad accident, William Henry, son of Pre. Alexander and sister Mary Weaver. Bro. Weaver was cutting wheat with the binder, and had just stopped for dinner, and while he was cleaning out the binder little Willie climbed on the seat and as the lines had dropped down he got down from the seat to get the lines, which started the horses, cutting both his legs nearly off. The physicians were sent for but there was no help; he died a few hours later. Willie was a bright little boy, aged 8 years, 5 months, and 12 days. He was buried on the 12th at the Weaver Mennonite M.H. Funeral services were held by Jonas Blauch, Sam. Gindlesperger and L.A. Blough. Text, "There is but a step between me and death." This sudden death was a hard stroke for the family but little Willie is better cared for than any father or mother could care for him. Our loss is his gain.

GINDLESPERGER - On the 11th of July, in Roxbury, Cambria Co., Pa., very suddenly, Cyrus Gindlesperger, aged 47 years. He was buried on the 13th at the Blough Mennonite M.H. Funeral services by J.H. Mickley, of the Reformed church, of which deceased was a member, and L.A. Blough and San. Gindlesperger. Text: Amos 4:12.

MILLER - On the 31st of July 1897, in Jackson Co., Minn., Nathaniel J., youngest son of M.S. and Amanda Miller, aged 1 year, 7 months, 11 days. He had wandered to a small stream near the house, and as the mother was seeking him among the other children and did not find him, she hastened to the stream and found him there a lifeless corpse. He was buried at the Luchan family graveyard, followed by a large circle of friends. Services were held by the writer at the school house near by, from Heb. 9:27. God bless the bereaved parents and six children who are left to mourn his untimely death. Their loss is his gain.

SNYDER - Bro. Isaac Synder of Blenheim Twp., Oxford Co., Ont., died July 9th 1897, in his 68th year. Buried July 11th at the Detweiler cemetery. Services were conducted by Noah Stauffer in English and Daniel Wismer in German. He died trusting in the Lord.

SHANTZ - Elizabeth May, daughter of Bro. Jonathan and sister Caroline Shantz, died at Winterbourne, Waterloo Co., Ont., on July 25th, 1897. She was born Nov. 16th 1885. Buried in the Blenheim Mennonite cemetery. Sermon by Joseph Nahrgang. She went to heaven to be with the angels whom she said she saw before she died.

SHANTZ - Bro. Joshua Shantz, of Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Co., Ont., was born Sept. 11th 1817, died July 25th 1897, aged 79 years, 10 months, and 14 days. He was the father of ten children, four sons and six daughters, of whom three sons and four daughters survive him. Buried in the Geiger cemetery, where Amos Cressman spoke in German and Noah Stauffer in English, from Rev. 14:13. He died in peace.

HOSTETLER - On the 20th of July 1897, at his home near Monitor, McPherson Co., Kans., of Brights disease, Eman. Hostetler. He suffered about eighteen months. The last six months he suffered very much. The last four days of his life he was paralyzed, yet at the same time conscious but unable to talk. He leaves a wife, one son, two daughters, twelve grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Seven children preceded him. There is one brother living in Canada and on in Indiana. He moved from Canada to Lagrange Co., Ind., in 1842. Was married to Fannie Stutzman April 25, 1847, in Elkhart, Ind., where he remained until the spring of 1892 when he moved to McPherson Co., Kansas. He arrived at the aged of 79 years, 11 months, 15 days. Buried on the 22d, in the Union graveyard. Funeral services by Bro. John Zimmerman in German and J.M.R. Weaver in English. Text: 1 Cor. 15:55.

MILLER - On the 7th of August 1897, near Plevna, Howard Co., Ind., of a complication of diseases, Lida, wife of Benj. F. Miller, aged 32 years, 2 months, 29 days. She was converted and united with the Mennonite church about two years ago. She was a faithful companion, and always filled her place both in Sunday school and church until she was no longer able to do so on account of her health. During the last weeks of her life she prayed much and was fully resigned to her Father's will. Services were conducted by Bish. E. Mast, from Job. 14:1. Many people came to pay their last respects to one who was beloved and respected by all who knew her. She was the mother of six children one of who preceded her to the world beyond. She leaves a husband and five children to mourn her death, but they need not mourn as those who have no hope. She leaves us with a bright evidence of her acceptance with God.

BLOUGH - On the 16th of August 1897, in Somerset Co, Pa., of cholera infantum, of a day's sickness, Mary Edna, daughter of William and Lizzie Blough, aged 1 year, 7 months, and 12 days. She was buried on the 18th at the Blough Mennonite M.H. Funeral services by Jonas Blauch, Simon Layman and L.A. Blough. Text: "Why weepest thou." John 20:15.
"Another little lamb is gone, to dwell with him who gave;
Another little darling babe is sheltered in the grave.
God needed one more angel child amidst His shining band,
And so He bent, with loving smile, and clasped our darling's hand."

STAUFFER - On August 7th 1897, at Spring Grove, Lancaster Co., Pa., sister Susanna, wife of Aaron Stauffer, and daughter of Isaac W. and Susanna Martin, aged 27 years, 3 months and 20 days. She was in delicate health several months prior to her death, yet her end was not looked for, and it was a severe shock for her parents and to her young husband. She was long a member of the Mennonite church, and during her sickness was a patient sufferer, and spoke of the preparation she had made for a dwelling place with her God. The young people were married last November, and had lived together only a few months, with hopes and plans of a happy life; but God's plan was otherwise. The funeral was held at Weaverland where many people gathered and services were conducted by the brethren John Sauger, John Zimmerman, and John Landis. Text: Matt. 14:44 and Luke 10:42. May this early death of our departed sister bring many of those who are yet thoughtless and unconcerned about their soul's salvation, to a sense of their duty towards God.

FRETS - On the 29th of July 1897, sister Pearl Frets died at the home of Aaron Loucks, near Scottdale, Pa., after a short illness, of typhoid fever, aged 19 years, 5 months, and 10 days. She was a devoted Christian, one that counted no sacrifice too great to make for her Savior, whom she so faithfully moved by keeping His commandments. Her place in the church and Sunday school was never vacant when health permitted. She was a bright and shining light in the world; perhaps few appreciated as the writer the worth of her Christian character and example. Patient, meek, gentle, loving, cheerful, humble and kind, were among the fruits that graced her life. Though called away early in life, we believe she fulfilled her mission, and that it could be truly said of her, "she hath done what she could." She united with the Mennonite church nearly six years ago and lived a consistent, consecrated life. Funeral services were conducted in the home where she died, July 30th, at 8 P.M., by J.A. Ressler, at Fairview church near Masontown, where she was buried July 31st, 1 P.M., by David Johnson and Aaron Loucks.

WENGER - On the 14th of August, 1897, near Elkhart, Elkhart Co., Ind., of quick consumption, Nancy K., wife of Martin D. Wenger, and daughter of Samuel and Meriam Stayrook, aged 53 years, 1 month, and 23 days. She was born on the 22d of June 1844, in Mifflin Co., Pa., where in her youthful years she united with the Amish Mennonite church. She afterwards resided for a time in Logan Co., Ohio, from which place she went to Haw Patch, in Lagrange Co., Indiana, and from there to Elkhart, where she was received into fellowship with the Mennonite church. On the 30th of April 1876 she was united in marriage to her surviving husband, M.D. Wenger. This union was blessed with three children, two daughters and a son. Sister Wenger was a faithful member of the church; and quietly and meekly bore her afflictions with humble resignation to her Father's will. Her sufferings were often severe. but she murmured not, and was satisfied with the portion that was allotted to her, looking forward to the fulfillment of the promises given us in the blessed Word. Her remains were laid to rest at the Yellow Creek burying-ground, on the 16th inst., where funeral services were conducted by J.F. Funk, and Christian Shaum, from John 14:1--3. May God comfort and bless our brother and his bereaved children; and may they all be gathered at last in the glorious home of God's children, to meet again the dear ones who have gone before.

MILLER - On July 14th 1897, in Elkhart Co., Ind., of paralysis, sister Fannie, wife of Michael Miller, aged 75 years and 24 days. She was a member of the Amish Mennonite church and died in the hope of everlasting life. Services by Joseph Kulp and J.W. Christophel. Text, from Rom. 14:8.

GERBER - On the 14th of August 1897, near Carlock, McLean Co., Ill., Joseph E. Gerber, aged nearly 53 years. He was buried on the 15th inst., at the North Danvers Mennonite M.H., where a large number of people had assembled. He leaves a sorrowing companion and two sons to mourn his death, one son and one daughter having died before him. He also leaves an aged mother 82 years old, and seven brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held by Joseph King and Joseph Stuckey.

KRATZ - On the 12th of August 1897, in Clay Co., Ill., of grippe and heart disease, Bro. Levi Kratz, aged 80 years, 6 months and 14 days. He was born in New Briton Twp., Bucks Co., Pa., on the 28th of January, 1817. For many years he has had his home near Louisville, in Clay Co., Ill.

BENBOW - In the Carthage church, Mo., on the 15th of August 1987, Anna Benbow aged 72 years, 3 months, and 13 days. She was born in Somerset Co., Pa., April 17th 1825. Her parents died when she was an infant, and she grew up to womanhood in the family of Jacob Kauffman. Her maiden name was Miller. She was twice married. She was a member of the Brethren church, and died in the hope of eternal glory. The last four months of her life were spent with her daughter Mary Oren, in Carthage, Mo.,

GARBER - Warren, youngest child of Jacob and Katie Garber, was born June 24th 1890, died June 28th, 1897, aged 7 years and 4 days. Little Warren came to a sudden death. He was driving the horse for unloading hay; and, while the team went to the field, he and a neighbor's child climbed to the second floor of the barn, and he stepping upon some straw which covered a small opening, fell through crushing one side of his head. He was carried home in an unconscious condition, and died in about 45 minutes, going home to that dear Jesus who blessed the little ones and said, "Forbid them not to come unto me." There he is waiting with the redeemed in eternal happiness, for those who loved him, Oh! so fondly. But may they realize that Jesus loved him still more; and that although the loss is great, it is outweighed by the gain. Just think! no more sickness, no more pain, no sorrows--escaped from all the evil to come--who would wish him back? "How blessed are these little ones whom Jesus calls to rest." Little Warren was a promising child, and, although so young, he had marks of a noble manhood. He was always ready for church and S.S. When services were over he kept close to his father's side, oftimes his little hand clasped within his father's. Is not this a beautiful example of the place the true child of God should occupy? Close to the Father's side, hand clasped in His, "no man shall be able to pluck them out." Funeral services by P.Y. Lehman and D. Troyer, from Rev. 21:4.

Transcribed by C. Wheeler - British Columbia

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Herald of Truth, Vol. XXXIV, No. 18, September 15, 1897 - Page 286

MILLER - On the 24th of Aug., 1897, near Plevna, Howard Co., Ind., Frankie, son of Benj. F. Miller, aged 1 month and 28 days. Just shortly before little Frankie's departure his mother preceded him to the glory world, where they will meet to part no more. Services on the 26th at the A.M. meeting house, conducted by E.A. Mast from Luke 18:15.

ROSE - On the 24th of August, 1897, near North Grove, Miami, Co., Ind., of bilious colic, Henry P. Rose, aged 28 years, 4 m., and 29 d. He leaves a wife and two children, parents, brothers, and sisters to mourn his departure. Twenty hours before he died he bade them all farewell. He asked them all to meet him in the glory world, where there is no more parting nor shedding of tears. Funeral services were conducted on the 25th at the St. Paul Chapel by E.A. Mast in German and James Perry in English, from Matt. 24:44.

LANTZ - On the 27th of August, 1897, of typhoid fever, John F. Lantz, aged 23 years, 7 months and 12 days. He was ill four weeks, but said during his illness that he was going home. He was a very useful worker in the Sunday school and Young People's Meeting. We believe he fell asleep in Jesus. He leaves his bereaved mother, three brothers and three sisters. Buried on the 29th. Funeral services in the North Danvers meeting house by Peter Shantz, Valentine Strubhar and Joseph Stuckey.

MOYER - At 9 o;clock Sunday evening August 15th, 1897, at the home of her son-in-law, A.R. Hendrick, in Sterling, Ill., of nerve paralysis, of which she suffered about a year, Mrs. Elizabeth (Myers) Moyer, at the age of nearly 73 years. During the last few months of her life she endured great suffering, which she bore very patiently. She was born in New Britain Twp., Bucks Co., Pa., Nov. 15th, 1824, was married to John H. Moyer in Bucks Co., on the 28th of May 1843. In the fall of 1861 they moved to the vicinity of Sterling, Ill., where they lived since. Sister Moyer always enjoyed good health until a year ago, when she had a stroke of paralysis. Her six daughters and three sons with their father were present at her bedside when her spirit fled. She was a member of the Mennonite church for many years, she and her husband having joined soon after their marriage. She was an open hearted Christian, and was highly esteemed. Her hand was ready to help wherever help was needed. What is our loss is her eternal gain. Buried on Wednesday Aug. 18th at the Mennonite meeting house near Sterling. Funeral services at the house by E. Brown and at the meeting house by Philip Nice. A large number of relatives and friends gathered on the solemn occasion. Funeral text, Rev. 14:13, 14.

MOSSER - Veronica Mosser was born in Juniata Co., Pa., July 28th, 1815, died Aug. 27th 1897, aged 82 years and 29 days. Buried at the Yellow Creek meeting house, Elkhart Co., Ind. She leaves two children, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
L. MUSSER

STAUFFER - On Aug. 17th, 1897, at Scottdale, Pa., John F. Stauffer, aged 78 years, 1 month and 6 days. Bro. Stauffer lived a quiet, retired life, and was remarkable for his business integrity at all times. He suffered from deafness and, because of this, he was not able to enjoy public worship, nevertheless he was present at the last two communion occasions and partook of the sacred emblems. Funeral services on the 19th, conducted by Bro. J.N. Durr, assisted by the brethren Keister, Loucks, and Ressier.

Transcribed by C. Wheeler - British Columbia


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