Herald of Truth Obituaries - March, 1898

| Week 1 | Week 2 |


Herald of Truth, Vol. XXXV, No. 5, March 1, 1898 ­ page 77, 78.

IN LOVING REMEMBRANCE
of Fannie S., wife of John B. Reist,
who died Jan. 13, 1898, aged
47 years, 9 months and 27 days.

Death has robbed us of our mother,
Whom we loved and cherished dear;
It was mother, yes dear mother,
Can we help but shed a tear?

Over ten years dear mother suffered,
But she meekly bore it all;
Never in complaint she murmured,
But awaited God's last call.

The Gospel was her joy and care
E'en to her latest breath;
We may truly ask the question,
What is home since thou art gone?

Parted! yes, and never more
Here thou'lt fill that vacant chair;
Parted from us here below
Where a thousand tears do flow.

Human hands have tried to save thee,
Tender cares were all in vain;
Holy angels came and bore thee
From this weary world of pain.

Mother, dear, you were our comfort
Loved by all the hearts at home,
But the angels coming quickly
Gently whispered, Mother come.

O dear mother, when we meet you
In the joyous realms above,
Gladly will we haste to greet you,
All our hearts aflame with love.

All is dark within our dwelling,
Lonely are our hearts to-day,
For the one we loved so dearly
Has forever passed away.

Oft let us think of what she said,
And of the kind advice she gave,
O let us do it as she's dead,
And sleeping in her lowly grave.

DEATHS

WIDMER.-On the 4th of Feb., 1898, near New Albany, Oregon, of pneumonia, Fannie, daughter of Christian and Barbara Widmer, aged 11 years, 5 months. She leaves father, mother, three brothers and three sisters to mourn her early death. Fanny was a bright, obedient girl and beloved by all who knew her. She was sick only nine days. She told her family that she was going to die. She was buried Feb. 6th. Services by J. D. Mishler from Heb. 9:27, and Aaron Baltimore from Jno. 11:1-29.

Weep not for me, my parents dear,
Since I must go and leave you here;
With Jesus I shall happy be,
O parents do not weep for me.

My brothers, do not mourn for me,
In heaven I hope you all to see,
Where parting words are heard no more,
But dwell fore'er on Canaan's shore.

Dear sisters, do not grieve for me,
While I am in eternity;
But be content and trust in God,
And you'll receive a great reward.

Weep not for me since 'tis in vain,
In heaven I hope we'll meet again,
Where we can then together be
Forever in eternity.

BRENNEMAN.-On the 25th of January, 1898, near Safe Harbor, Lancaster Co., Pa., Catharine, widow of the late Christian Brenneman, aged 65 years. In the forenoon while performing her household duties, she was stricken with paralysis, lingering until evening, when death came to her relief. She leaves two sons and two daughters to mourn her departure. Her husband preceded her to the spirit-world last April. She was a consistent member of the Mennonite church for several years. Funeral services were held at the Masonville M. H., being conducted by J. K. Brubaker and Abram Witmer. May our sister's sudden death be the means of bringing us nearer to Christ.

ESCH.-On the 23rd of September, 1898, in Lagrange Co., Ind., Christiana, wife of Jonas Esch, aged 37 years, 8 months and 6 days. She was a faithful member of the Old Am. Mennonite Ch. and was a faithful and active housekeeper and a devoted wife. She lived in her married life nineteen years and eight months. She was the mother of sixteen children, twelve of whom survive her. She seemed to have a presentiment during her sickness that she would soon be taken away. Shortly before she died she called her husband, and as he came near she threw her arms around him and said, "I am going home." He asked her, "Will you leave us?" She answered with a smile, "Yes, thanks be to God." As the children came weeping around her, she said to them. "Weep not for me; be obedient." Then she closed her eyes and the spirit took its flight. The husband was much grieved over her departure, but we have the blessed hope that she passed away from the earth at peace with her God. She was buried on the 25th in the presence of a large congregation of friends and relatives who gathered at the home of J. E. Bontrager where funeral services were conducted by S.S. Kauffman and J. Bontrager from John 5:20-30 and Heb. 4.

FROEHR.-On the 8th of Jan., 1898, in Souderton, Montgomery Co., Pa., sister Anna Froehr, aged 19 years, 6 months and 16 days. Anna was a kindhearted, pleasant, and faithful girl. She was an attentive and industrious Sunday school scholar, where she will be especially missed. About three weeks before her sickness she was forcibly convinced that she was not at peace with God, and that her condition was not good. She gave her heart to God, and was converted. She lived for Christ, which she manifested by her devotion to God, and her simplicity of manner. She took sick on the 28th of December with la grippe and typhoid fever, and suffered for about ten days. On the 10th of January she was baptized and received into church fellowship. She had a presentiment that she would not be restored to health; she also said she saw heaven opened, and beheld beautiful angels, but they told her it was not yet time for her to remain there. Before she was baptized she desired to have the hymn No. 115 in Hymns and Tunes sung. After she was baptized they asked her if she had another hymn she wanted sung; she replied by asking for No. 169 in Gospel Hymns, "Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole." She joined in the singing for our dear Anna was a good singer; then she said, "This has been the most beautiful day of my life." The last day that she lived she began to sing the beautiful hymn, No. 126, Hymns and Tunes. She sang two verses, and fell asleep. She was buried on the 13th, at the Souderton Mennonite M. H. on which occasion Bro. M. R. Moyer spoke at the house, and Josiah Clemmer at the meeting house from the text: 1 Pet. 1:24, 25. Many tears were shed in deep sympathy, but we need not mourn as those who have no hope. She sleeps in peace.

THOMAS.-On the 26th of Jan. 1898, in Conemaugh township, Somerset county, Pa., of consumption, Lovina, wife of Bro. Silas Thomas, aged 31 years, 6 months. She was buried on the 28th at the Thomas Mennonite church. Funeral services were conducted by Sam'l Zimmerman and L. A. Blough. She was a faithful member of the Dunkard Church for a number of years. She appeared to be very patient during her affliction, and we believe she died in peace. She left a sorrowing husband and two children; four children preceded her to the future world. May God bless her husband, children and friends.

KREIDER.-On the 3d of Nov., 1897, near Wadsworth, Medina Co., Ohio, of kidney trouble and old age, Tobias Kreider, aged 76 years, 7 months and 9 days. Bro. Kreider leaves a wife, one son, and four daughters to mourn his departure. We trust and believe their loss is his eternal gain. He was a faithful member of the Mennonite Church for years. Interment took place on the 7th. Funeral services were conducted by Ira Buchwalter. Text, John 6:68.

BLAUCH.-Barbara, beloved wife of Levi Blauch, of Johnstown, Pa., and daughter of Isaac and Susanna Yoder, was born May 17th, 1857, was united in marriage with her surviving husband Nov. 8th, 1874. Both united with the Mennonite church May 16th, 1875. On the 27th of Oct. 1897, in the evening she took a lighted lamp filled with oil, and started down the cellar way, when her feet slipped and she struck the lamp against the wall, breaking it and scattering the oil over her garments. They caught fire and in a minute her whole body was aflame. Her skin was literally roasted and her sufferings cannot be described; but she bore it all with Christian patience, calling upon God for mercy, and upon her friends for help. In her sad condition she suffered seven days, when inflammation set in and death came to her relief. On Thursday (Nov. 4th) she bade farewell to her husband and children, and also to her father and sisters, kissing each one and asking them to meet her in heaven. On Friday morning (Nov. 5th) she ate a hearty breakfast, and rested well, and telling her friends not to weep for her, but rather for themselves. She also said to her husband, "You need not weep, for all is bright and clear before me; only take good care of the children, and meet me in heaven." At half past ten o'clock she passed away, leaving us the blessed consolation that with her all was well. She was a bright shining light in the church, a good companion, a beloved mother, and we need not mourn as those who have no hope. She reached the age of 40 years, 5 months and 18 days. She leaves husband, son, daughter, father, three sisters and a brother. Buried on the 7th, at the Stahl Mennonite meeting house, in Somerset Co., Pa., where she had been a regular attendant at church, Sunday school and Bible reading. Funeral was largely attended. Services by Jonas Blauch and S. G. Shetler from Jno. 16:16.

MILLER.-In Stark Co., Ohio, Mickel Miller, born in France, July 16, 1827, died January 12th, 1898, aged 70 years, 5 months and 26 days. He was united in matrimony to Barbara Graber in 1957. This union was blessed with fourteen children, ten of whom are living to mourn their father's departure. In his youth the deceased was united with the Am. Mennonite Church and was a consistent and faithful member and a loving brother until called by his Master. Interment in the Am. graveyard. Funeral services by Mickel Sloneger and John Somer in German and S. B. Stuky in English. Text, Isaiah 38:1, 2.

SCHROCK.-Near Orrville, Ohio, Fronica Schrock. She was born March 29th, 1819, died Jan. 29th, 1898, aged 78 years and 10 months. Deceased united with the Am. Mennonite Church in her youth. But soon failing in health she became an invalid in her mind for about 60 years. Interment at the Oak Grove: cemetery. Funeral services by Benj. Gerig and J. S. Gerig. Texts, Eccl. 12:1 and Job 30:23. Truly we may say, "Remember thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh wherein thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them."

NISSLEY.-On the 5th of Feb., Lancaster Co., Pa., John K. Nissley, of East Donegal Twp., aged 64 years. He was a son of Pre. Peter Nissley who was a prominent minister in the Old Mennonite Church for many years. Bro.J. K. was a faithful member of the same church. He died in the General Hospital, where he had undergone an operation for a chronic disease. Bro. Nissley was an active worker in all measures that were for the general good. He was for many years a member of the school board of his district, and also served the people in other works of a similar kind. He was an extensive traveler, and had visited every state and territory in the United States. Only a few years ago he made an extended tour through the West, North-west and the Pacific slope. As a neighbor he was held in the highest respect, and his death will be sincerely lamented throughout the large circle of relatives and friends. His wife died nine years ago, and three children survive him. Peter, living on the old homestead; Sarah, wife of Clayton I. Nissley; and Maria, widow of George R. Risser, late of Paris, Ill. He was buried at the Graybill meeting house on Wednesday. His funeral was largely attended. Bro. Nissley was a warm friend of our church paper, the HERALD OF TRUTH, and also of the Publishing House and its interest, at Elkhart.

DETWEILLER.-On Jan. 30th, 1898, near Louisville, Clay Co., Ill., Margaret Detweiler, aged 72 years, 2 months and 18 days. She was a member of the Dunkard Church. She was faithful to the end. Towards her last she repeatedly said,"Glory to God! Glory to God! Jesus bear me up." Buried at the Golder graveyard. Funeral sermon by Joseph Meyers. Text, 1 Thess. 4:13, 14.

RICK.-At her home, near Morrison, Ill., Margaret Dora Rick, born in Baden, Germany, April 23, 1823; died Feb. 9th, 1898, aged 74 years, 9 months and 16 days. She was united in marriage with Philip Rick, in the year 1844. They emigrated to America in 1875. She leaves a husband and five children to mourn their loss. Two children have preceded her to the spirit world. Buried on the 12th at the Mennonite church in Ustick. Funeral services were conducted by Jn. McCulloh and Jn. Nice.

MILLER.-Near Morrison, Ill., Feb. 15th, 1898, of spasms, Clarence Leroy, son of Emil and Sarah (Steiner) Miller, aged 6 months and 7 days. Buried the 17th at the Mennonite church in Ustick. Funeral services were conducted by John McCulloh and John Nice.

HOSTETTER.-On Saturday, Jan. 22, 1898, near Manheim, Lancaster Co., Pa., of heart failure, Bro. Josiah Hostetter, aged 52 years, 9 months and 18 days. He leaves a sorrowing wife, an aged mother, two sisters and six brothers. He was buried on the 25th of January in the Kauffman Mennonite graveyard. Funeral services by Jacob Snavely, Abraham Horst and Jacob N. Brubacher. Text, John 14:1-3. Peace to his ashes.

BOOZ.-On the 26th of Dec., 1897, near Souderton, Montgomery Co., Pa., of heart disease, Eve, daughter of Harris and Anna Booz, aged 7 months and 13 days. She was buried on the 13th at the Souderton Mennonite graveyard, on which occasion Pastor Fetters preached at the house, and Pre. M. R. Moyer at the meeting house, from Rev. 3:20.

YODER.-On the 29th of May, 1897, near Nappanee, Ind., at the home of her daughter­in-law, Polly Yoder, of the infirmities of old age, Sister Rachel Yoder, widow of Elias Yoder, aged 88 years, 5 months and 28 days. She was as well as usual until within a few days of her death, and was active for her age. She was a faithful sister of the Amish Mennonite Church for upwards of sixty years. She leaves at her death three daughters, Mrs. Samuel Yoder of Trelone, Wyo., Mrs. Benj. Troyer of Virgil City, Mo., Mrs. Geo. Reaman of Bloomington, Kans. Two brothers and one sister, Mary Bickell, Osborne Co., Kansas, Elias Troyer of Holmes Co., Ohio, and Jonas Troyer of Elkhart Co., Ind., to mourn their loss, but their loss is her eternal gain. She was buried May 31st at the Brick church graveyard. Services were held by D. J. Johns of Goshen, Ind.
[This notice was not sent in for publication until last week, one of the daughters requested that it should appear in the HERALD OF TRUTH.] H. J. Ringenberg

SMITH.-On Tuesday morning, Jan. 25th, 1898, the spirit of Magdelena Smith, wife of Bish. John Smith, passed quietly away. Magdelena Schertz was born Dec. 1, 1843, and died at the age of 54 years, 1 month and 24 days. She had been a long and patient sufferer with consumption until death finally released her. She leaves her husband and eight children, four boys and four girls, to mourn their loss, but what is their loss can be reckoned as her gain, as for her it was only a stepping out from a world of pain and sorrow, to one of everlasting bliss. The end came peacefully, conscious that a bright home was prepared for her in the new Jerusalem. Short funeral services were held at the house and at the Roanoke church, Jan. 27th, where a large concourse of friends and relatives assembled to pay their last respects to the dear departed. Services were conducted by Samuel Gerber and Peter Summer.

HORST.-On the 22d of Jan., 1898, near North Lawrence, Ohio, after two weeks affliction of lung fever, Daniel S. son of John B. and Elizabeth Horst, aged 4 years and 4 days. Buried at the Pleasant View graveyard. Funeral services conducted by I. J. Buchwalter, from James 4:14 and J. Tyson from Luke 18:16, 17.

One by one earth's ties are broken,
As we see our love decay;
And the hopes so fondly cherished
Brighten but to pass away.
One by one hopes grow brighter,
As we near the shining shore;
For we know across the river
Wait the loved ones gone before.

Another little lamb has gone
To dwell with Him who gave
Another little darling
Is sheltered in the grave.
God needed one more angel child
Amidst His shining band,
And so He bent with loving smiles
And clasped our darling's hand.

NOFZINGER.-On Jan. 17, 1898, four miles south of Archbold, in Henry Co., Ohio, John J. Nofzinger, aged 61 years, 5 months and 15 days. He was suddenly called to eternity; his death being caused by unloading a saw log. He was stooping down to loosen the chain, when the log commenced rolling and caught him, crushing his head and body. He was instantly killed. He was born Aug. 2, 1836, and united in matrimony with Anna Ricker Jan. 30, 1862. To this union were born eleven children, two of them and the dear mother preceded him to the spirit world, leaving nine children to mourn the sudden departure of the dear father to eternity. He was buried on Wednesday the 19th. Funeral services at the Amish Mennonite church were conducted by D. J. Wyse from Mark 13:33-37, and C. S. Stuckey from Matt. 24:44, where a large concourse of friends and relatives congregated to pay their last tribute of respect to the departed brother. May God bless the dear ones who mourn his death.

BERLINCOURT.-On the 24th of Jan., 1898, near Nappanee, Elkhart Co., Ind., by scalding, Bertha, daughter of David and Annetta Berlincourt, aged 2 years and 7 months. the mother had set a pail half full of hot water upon the floor and did not have time to speak to the child till she and her doll fell with her left arm into the scalding water. She suffered forty-eight hours, when God took her spirit to dwell with Him. Funeral services by Jas. H. McGowan, from 2 Kings 4, latter clause of 26th verse.

BERLINCOURT. ­ Near Nappanee, Elkhart Co., Ind., at the same residence above named Annetta (maiden name Lantz) wife of David wife of David C. Berlincourt, of rose rash and premature birth with a complication of diseases. Died Feb. 6, 1898, aged 27 years, 2 months and 14 days. On the 25th of January she attended the funeral of Bertha; the day being very stormy she took cold. On the 26th she took sick and suffered 12 days until God released her. She leaves a sorrowing husband, one son, two daughters, father, mother, three brothers and two sisters to mourn their loss. Their loss is her eternal gain. Three children have preceded her to the spirit world. May God comfort the sorrowing husband in his deep affliction. She was a member of the Amish Mennonite Church. Funeral services were held at South Union, by David Burkholder in German, from Rev. 14:11, and Jas. H. McGowen in English, from 1 Cor. 15, part of 36th and 37th verses.


Transcribed by Ralph Shetler, Oregon

UP


Herald of Truth, Vol. XXXV, No. 6, March 15, 1898 ­ page 93, 94.

MEMORIAM

In loving remembrance
of Joseph L. Hartranft,
who died July 15th, 1897,
at the early age of 16 years.

Death has robbed us of our Josie,
Whom we loved and cherished dear,
It was Josie, yes, dear Josie,
Can we help but flow our tears?

True we were a happy family,
With only six in number,
But so we see it pleased our Lord
To cause the one to slumber.

Willing hands tried to save him,
Physicians were all in vain,
For an angel came and bore him
From this weary world of pain.

Oh, how lonely, oh, how sad
When we think dear Josie dead,
Yet again we hope to meet him
Where no farewell tear is shed.

Round his pillow we were weeping,
For we knew that he would die,
And the hours are sad and lonely
Since dear Josie in his grave doth lie.

All is dark within our dwelling,
Lonely are our hearts to-day,
For the one we loved so dearly
Has forever passed away.

Farewell father and mother dear,
I know you would have loved to keep me here,
But Jesus loved me too and that is why
He called your Josie up on high.
BY HIS MOTHER.

'Twas hard to give our brother up,
But we will be resigned
To Him who is too wise to err,
To good to be unkind.

Day after day we saw him fade,
And slowly pass away;
Yet often in our hearts we prayed
That he with us might stay.

Dear brothers, you are lonely now,
But make and keep the solemn vow,
To live for Jesus and then to be
With Josie in eternity.

Remember me dear brothers and sister,
We loved each other here;
How sweet to love each other
When death is drawing near.

Farewell dear brothers and sister,
My life on earth is through,
And you kind friends and schoolmates,
I must leave you all, adieu.
HIS ONLY SISTER.

OBITUARY
PRE. JACOB ZEHR
Montgomery Township, Woodford County, Ill., lost one of its oldest and most respected citizens on Tuesday morning of Feb. 22nd, 1898 by the death of Pre. Jacob Zehr, at his home in Mackinaw valley, near Zimmerman's Ford. Deceased was born in Bavaria, Germany, Sept. 17, 1825 and emigrated to America in the spring of 1848. On April 21st, 1850, he was married to Elizabeth Ehresman and settled on the farm upon which he died. This farm he entered from the government and by hard labor succeeded in making it a comfortable home, leaving his family well provided for. His family consisted of four sons and five daughters of whom one son and two daughters preceded him to the grave; his wife, six children and eighteen grandchildren survive him. Bro. Zehr united with the Amish Mennonite Church in early youth and remained a faithful member to the time of his death. On the 12th of June 1859, he was chosen by the above named church as minister of the Gospel, and on May 17th, 1863 ordained as bishop. It was ever his highest aim to fill this charge according to God's ordinances as long as He gave him power and health to do so. He was a sufferer from nervousness or sick-headache more or less for nearly forty years, which wore on him so that for the last four or five years his health has been so poor that he was unable to preach. This seemed to be his greatest sorrow in his declining years; yet by his patience in his sufferings and his trust in his Master he was ever setting a good example to others who visited him, and to his family. About four months ago he was partly paralyzed and from that time was confined to his bed and as helpless as a child, patiently awaiting his Master's call to come up higher. His life on earth was an exemplary, upright, humble one, highly respected by all who knew him. While the sorrow of his death is general, yet it is mitigated by the knowledge that after a long and useful life a good man has gone to the home he so longed for.

What a blessed assurance that
"If we so live as to meet him,
In heaven his bright face we shall see."

The funeral services were held in the village of Deer Creek. Thursday at 1 o'clock
P. M. Feb., 24th, a very large congregation of friends and relatives came to pay
their last tribute of respect to their beloved friend whose kindness and generosity brightened the lives of many. Elder John Schmitt of Metamora spoke in German, and Val. Strubhar of Washington, in English. The remains were laid to rest in the Mt. Zion cemetery, two miles north of Deer Creek.

"Yonder in the graveyard gently
Rests the form we loved so well;
But we look to heaven and glory
Where there will be no farewell.
Farewell father, till we meet thee,
In thy heavenly home above;
There to sing God's praises with thee,
In the land of joy and love."

DEATHS

SMITH.-On the 31st of January 1898, near Reynoldsburg, Ohio, Sister Elizabeth Smith, aged 74 years, 1 month and 19 days. She was born in Prussia, Germany, on the 12th of December, 1823. She was a member of the Mennonite Church 40 years. She was a reader of the HERALD OF TRUTH many years. She is the last of her family. She had one brother and one sister who died before. None of them were ever married.

WEAVER.-On the 24th of February, 1898, near Bareville, Mifflin Co., Pa., of dropsy, Michael Weaver, aged 83 years, 6 months and 10 days. Funeral services were conducted at the house, by John Hostetler.

HOSTETLER.-On the 22nd of February, 1898, in Champaign Co., O., David Hostetler, aged 36 years, 6 months and 6 days. He was born in Mifflin Co., Pa., Aug. 16th, 1861. He leaves a widow and four children. Bro. Hostetler was a faithful and peaceable member. He was buried at South Union, where services were conducted by C. K. Yoder and David Hilty.

CHRISTNER.-Near Elmira, Lane Co., Oregon, on the 30th of Jan. 1898, of consumption, Barbara, wife of bishop Peter Christner, aged 69 years, 3 mos., and 15 days. She was born in France, Oct. 15, 1828; lived in matrimony with her surviving husband 40 years. She was a member of the Amish Mennonite Church 57 years; was the mother of ten children and grandmother to twenty-four. She was buried in the Inman cemetery on the 31st. Funeral services were conducted at the house by J. D. Mishler from 1 Thess. 4:13-18, and at the church by Rev. Howard from Heb. 9:27.

WISMER.-On the ____Feb., 1898 in Bedminister Twp., Bucks Co., Pa., Samuel Wismer in the 84th year of his age. He was buried at Deep Run Mennonite graveyard on the 17th, on which occasion Abraham Heistand, and Jacob Rush spoke at the house and David Gehman and John M. Leatherman at the meeting house.

ANGLEMOYER.-On the 15th of February, 1898, in Doylestown Twp., Bucks Co., Pa., Sibella, widow of the late Samuel Anglemoyer, of cancer, aged 82 years. She was one of the oldest residents of the township and highly respected.

SHADDINGER.-At his residence, near Gardenville, Bucks Co., Pa., on the 19th of Feb., 1898, Jacob Shaddinger, aged 86 years. A wife and one son survive him. He was buried at Deep Run.

SCHOENBECK.-On the 14th of February, 1898, in Allen Co., Ind., Daniel Schoenbeck, aged 65 years, 3 months and 20 days. He leaves a sorrowing widow, 4 children and 10 grandchildren. He was born in Holmes Co., on the 25th of Oct., 1832, and came with his parents to Adams Co., Ind., soon after, moved to Allen County, and lived there until his death. Funeral services were held at the house by C. R. Egli, from the 90th Psalm, and at the meeting house by Peter Hostetler, from Job. 16:22 and 17:1.

SCHOENBECK.-On the 16th of February, 1898, in the same house as the above, forty-seven hours after the death of the grandfather, Emma, daughter of David and Maria Schoenbeck, of croup, aged 2 years, 3 months and 25 days. Buried on the 19th. Services were conducted by Joseph Schlatter and David Roth.

On the 2nd of Dec., 1897,
Catherine Eigstin, aged 14 years, 7 months and 18 days.

On the 7th of Dec., 1897,
John Eigstin, aged 11 years, 1 month and 4 days.

On the 7th of December, 1897,
Maria Eigstin, aged 16 years, 6 months, and 18 days.

On the 11th of December, 1897,
Lydia Eigstin, aged 7 years, 6 months, and 19 days.

The above four children all died out of the same family, being children of Christian and Marie Eigstin, near Browntown, Fayette Co., Ill. This was a very sorrowful affliction for the distressed and sorrowing parents. Funeral services could not be held at the time on account of the disease, (Diphtheria) and all the family being affected with it. Funeral services were afterwards held on the 20th of Feb., 1898, by bishop Jonas Kauffman from Oregon.

NACE.-On the 13th of Feb., 1898, in Hilltown Twp., Bucks Co., Pa., Francis Nace, aged 61 years, 9 months and 10 days. He had been ill for some time, but was not confined to his bed. He leaves a sorrowing wife and 4 children. Funeral services were conducted at the house by Peter Loucks and Henry Rosenberger, from Rev. 3:5, and Abram F. Moyer at the meeting house, from Ps. 90:12.

KAUFFMAN.-On the 31st of Jan., 1898, in Douglas Co., Ill., Sister Catherine Kauffman, of nervous neuralgia and old age, being just 15 days less than 80 years old. She was born in Holmes County, Ohio, and in her youth united with the Amish Mennonite Church, and was a faithful member of the same until her death. She was failing in health for the last year. On the 1st of October, 1846, she was married to Moses K. Kauffman, and lived with him in married life 51 years. To this union nine children were born, of whom seven are still alive. She also survived her husband. She was buried on Feb. 2nd. Funeral services were conducted by C. P. Hershberger and David Plank, from Rev. 20:1-6, and 11-15; also, 1 Cor. 15.

POWELL.-On the 7th of February, 1898, near Richland, Knox Co., Tenn., of brain trouble, Daniel Cloid, son of Daniel and Lydia Powell, aged 8 mos., and 30 days. Services by H. H. Good, and N. Z. Yoder from Ps. 90:5-6. This little one was hardly ever well, but now we can say "All is well."

SISLEMAN.-On February 2nd, 1898, infant son of Bro. William and Sister Susannah Sisleman, aged 17 days. Funeral services were conducted in the Folk meeting house by Bro. G. D. Miller, on Feb. 8, 1898.

KEMP.-Sister Amanda Kemp (maiden name Falk), wife of Samuel Kemp, Garrett Co., Md., departed this life Feb. 9, 1898. She died of heart dropsy and other diseases. She had been a consistent member of the Mennonite Church for many years. She reached the age of 41 years, 2 months and 21 days. Funeral services were conducted at the Folk meeting house, Feb. 11, by G. D. Miller, assisted by Samuel Fike and G. B. Cline, from John 5:28, 29.

SMITH.-On the 12th of Feb., 1898, near Roanoke, Woodford Co., Ills., Ella May, daughter of Christian H., and Mary Smith, aged 1 year, 8 months. She leaves her parents, and one little brother to mourn her early departure, and one little brother has preceded her to the spirit world. She was buried on the 14th at the Roanoke meeting house. Funeral services were conducted at the house by C. Schertz and by P. Sommer and A. Schrock at the meeting house.

'Twas a precious little blossom
God had planted in our home,
But the angels came and whispered,
"Come and dwell with us at home."

Now 'tis dark within our dwelling,
Since she's gone, our Ella May,
For the one we loved so dearly
Has forever passed away.

Oh, we think we hear dear Ella's
Footsteps pattering on the floor,
then we tearfully remember,
Ella dear will come no more.

MILLER.-On the 13th of November, 1897, in LaGrange Co., Ind., Susanna, wife of Joni J. Miller, aged 71 years, 8 months and 19 days. She lived in matrimony 52 years, 11 months and 20 days. She was born on the 15th of Feb., 1826. She was sick with paralysis nearly 21 months, and was entirely helpless. She leaves a sorrowing husband, 12 children and 9 brothers and sisters. A large number of people assembled to pay their last tribute of respect. She was burried (sic) in the Miller graveyard. Peace to her ashes.

YODER.-Malinda Yoder died on the 9th of Dec., 1897, aged ___, of diphtheria. She was a daughter of Moses and Lydia Yoder. May God comfort these sorrowing parents and lead their hearts up to God, from whom all blessings come.

GREENENWALD.-Sarah Greenenwald was born March 30th, 1883, in Branch Co., Mich., died Feb. 6, 1898 in Chicago, Ill., of consumption, aged 14 years, 10 months and 7 days. She was the daughter of Christian and Amanda Greenenwald (maiden name Kreider). Four weeks before Sarah's death her mother was sitting by her bedside, she looked at her and said, "Sarah, I believe you feel better, for I think I can tell it in your face." Sarah said, "Yes, for I have put all my trust in the Lord." She asked her mother if she prayed for her every evening before going to bed "Yes, Sarah, every hour." With her consent a minister was called to pray with her and she was also baptized. She leaves father, mother, three brothers and two sisters to mourn her early departure. This was the first one that was taken out of the family. she was buried at the Walthiem cemetery.

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.

Dear parents you are lonely now,
Since she is gone and left you here,
But live for Christ and you shall be
With your child in eternity.

Brothers and sisters mourn not for her,
She longed to be at rest;
How happy, happy she must be,
While pillowed on her Savior's breast.

So let us pray to Him above,
That He may give more perfect love,
That when our meeting here is o'er,
We all may meet on Canaan's shore.

O pray that the wisdom of God
These weak, erring souls may inspire,
That He will be light in our road,
And give us our choicest desire.
PRISCILLA MOORE

GODSHALL.-On the 14th of February, 1898, in Souderton, Montgomery Co., Pa., of the infirmities of old age, Bro. Samuel K. Godshall, at the advanced age of 89 years, 3 months and 3 days. He was born Nov. 12, 1808, and was never married. He was very active for his age, and the Lord blessed him with a good mind until his end. His place in the church and Sunday school was seldom vacant until within the last three weeks before his death. He did much for the church and Sunday school, and also for the poor, and he said, "There is nothing that concerns me so much as the church and Sunday school." On the 19th he was buried in the Souderton graveyard. Funeral services were conducted by M. R. Moyer at the house, and Josiah Clemmer at the meeting house, from Ps. 27:4.

SHRAAG.-On the 21st of Feb., 1898, in Turner Co., S. Dak., of infirmities of old age, Bish. John Shraag, at the advanced age of 84 years, 8 months and 12 days. He was sick only a little over 3 days, and the last words he said, were, "I will soon be with my Savior." He was buried on the 23rd. He was a bishop or elder among our Russian brethren, and emigrated from Russia to this country, and has had an extensive acquaintance with our American Mennonite brethren nearly all over the country, having made a number of trips amongst the churches, both east and west, and many will remember him and the kind admonitions which he spoke.

BYLER.-Near Allensville, Mifflin County, Pa., on the 30th of Jan., 1898, John Harmon, son of John S., and Penina Byler, aged 6 months and 11 days.

BYLER.-In the same family, on the 1st of Feb., 1898, Ora Newton, aged 5 years, 1 month and 19 days. The other two children of these same parents were also seriously sick at the time, with same disease-diphtheria, but they are regaining their health. In these sad bereavements our hearts go out in sympathy to the parents. We trust they can say with Job, "The Lord gave, the Lord has taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord."

BACHMAN.-On Dec. 31st, 1897, at his home nearly a mile west of Metamora, occurred the death of Bish. Joseph Bachman, after a lingering illness of over a year; aged 71, 1 month, 13 days. He had been preaching the Gospel for over 32 years, and was 30 years a bishop in the Amish Mennonite Church. His aged companion (whose maiden name was Steider), was joined to him in wedlock on June 3, 1849, and survives him. This union was blessed with 7 children, one daughter preceded him to the spirit world. He bore his sufferings with patience. In his death the church loses a wise counsellor (sic), and the family a kind, loving husband and father. But we believe our loss is his gain, for he died in the assurance of a home with his Redeemer. Funeral services were conducted at the house by John Smith and Andrew Schrock at the meeting house. He was laid to rest in the Old Black Partridge graveyard. Peace to his ashes.

HOSTETLER.-On the 3rd of February, 1898, near Middlebury, Ind., of a catarrh fever, Samuel Paul, son of Moses and ___Hostetler, aged 1 year, 3 mos., and 14 days. Buried on the 5th. Services by Y. C. Miller in German and D. J. Johns in English.

As now we look beyond the tide,
We see 'twas best that Samuel died;
His star is bright in heaven above,
Where we hope to meet our love.

DERRINGER.-On the 10th of Feb., 1898, of pneumonia, William H., son of Bro. Jacob Derringer, aged 19 years, 7 months and 23 days. He was married to Bertha McCafferty and leaves his young wife, father, mother, brothers and sisters, and many friends. In his last hours he became seriously concerned about the salvation of his soul. Services were held on the 13th by N. O. and John Blosser. Text, 2 Kings 20;1. "Set thine house in order." Dear unconverted friends, do not wait to set your house in order on your dying couch. You may not have it done satisfactorily.

SMITH.-Elizabeth W. Smith was born near Lewisburg, Greenbrier Co., Va., Nov. 17, 1821, and died March 4, 1898, aged 67 years, 3 months and 15 days. She came to Elkhart Co., Ind., in 1834, with her parents, James and Jane McDowell. She was married to Levi Smith in 1842. She was the mother of 10 children, 4 sons and 6 daughters, of whom 6 are living, 3 sons and 3 daughters. One son and three daughters have gone before her. Those of her children who are left to mourn her passing from earth are: John J., and Levi M. Smith of this county; William P. Smith of Colorado; Rebecca M. Yoder, and Carrie L. Wambold of this county. She leaves thirty-nine grandchildren, thirty of whom are living, and ten great-grandchildren of whom seven are living. She was buried on the 6th. Funeral services by J. S. Lehman and Noah Metzler, from the words: "We all do fade as a leaf." Isa. 64:6.

MILLER.-On the 15th of Feb. 1898, in Franklin County, Pa., Sister Elizabeth, wife of Bro. Michael Miller, aged 75 years, and 14 days. She was buried at the Chambersburg Mennonite meeting house. Services were conducted by Henry Bricker. Philip Parret, and Peter Wadel from Rev. 14:11, 12, 13.

BERTSCHE.-On the 14th of Feb., near Flanagan, Ills., Alta Lillie, youngest daughter of Bro. John and Phoebe Bertsche. Little Alta was born December 21st, 1896 and reached the age of 1 year, 1 month and 25 days. Though very young she suffered one week of lung fever. She was dearly loved by her parents, sister and brother, who rejoice in the hope of meeting their loved one gone before. Funeral services Feb. 16, at the E. M. church by Joseph Zehr, Steven Stahly and J. P. Smith.

Oh, call it not death, it is life begun,
For the watches are passed, the home is won;
The ransomed spirit hath reached the shore
Where they will suffer and weep no more.

She is safe in her Father's home above,
In the place prepared by her Savior's love;
To depart from a world of sin and strife,
And to be with Jesus,--yes, this is life.

Oh! call it not death-'tis a holy sleep,
And the precious dust the Lord doth keep;
She shall wake again, and how satisfied
With the likeness of Him who for her died.

As He rose again, she shall also rise
From the quiet bed where now safe she lies.
Then cheer you fond mourners who sadly weep,
For happy are they who in Jesus sleep.
"X"

Transcribed by Ralph Shetler, Oregon


||| UP ||| Next --> |<-- Previous |

Copyright 1999 - All rights reserved - Mennonite Publishing House, Scottdale, PA
Used with permission by the Archives of the Mennonite Church, Goshen, INDIANA
Permission granted to private family researchers to use selected portions of these images to tell their family stories.
May not be mass-produced in any form for commercial purposes.