Gospel Herald Obituaries - April, 1954

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 14 - April 6, 1954 ­ page 333, 334

Bucher, Mary H., wife of C. B. Bucher, entered into rest at the home of her son at Manheim, Pa., Feb. 2, 1954, after a lingering illness, being bedfast for 12 weeks; aged 85 y. 2 m. 17 d. She was a member of the Mennonite Church for 63 years. On Nov. 28, she and her husband celebrated their sixty-fourth wedding anniversary. She was born in Elizabeth Township, daughter of the late Christian and Anna (Dipple) Hartman. Besides her husband, she is survived by two children (Ammon, with whom she resided and Lillie-wife of Henry B. Rohrer, Mountville, Pa.), 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one sister (Catherine, of Philadelphia). Two daughters (Elsie and Nora) preceded her in death. Funeral services were held Feb. 5 at Erisman's Church in charge of Martin G. Metzler, with interment in the adjoining cemetery.

Conrad, Christian M., son of Christian and Verena (Graber) Conrad, was born at Cornel, Switzerland, March 26, 1873; passed away after a year of illness at the home of his daughter and son-in-law (Mr. and Mrs. R. N. Long, Sterling, Ill.), on March 6, 1954; aged 80 y. 11 m. 8 d. At the age of 13 he, with his parents and family, migrated to America and settled in Wayne Co., Ohio. When he was 23 years of age he went to Flanagan, Ill., and on June 7, 1900, was married to Kathryn Orendorff. To this union six children were born (Ida-Mrs. R. N. long, Sterling, Ill.; Nora, nurse at Home Hospital, Sterling, Ill.; Laura, serving as business manager of the Nurmanzile Psychiatric Center, Lucknow, India; Eunice-Mrs. O. D. Diller, Wooster, Ohio; Reuben M., Arlington Heights, Ill.; and Gladys-Mrs. Clark S. Eberle, Columbus, Ohio). Surviving are his wife, the 6 children, 8 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, one sister (Mary-Mrs. D. W. Good, Sterling, Ill.), and 2 brothers (John D., Sterling, Ill., and Jacob G., Venice, Calif.). Two brothers and 4 sisters preceded him in death. Since September, 1953, he and his wife made their home with their daughter. He accepted Christ in his youth and united with the Mennonite Church, where he was an active a worker in the Sunday-school department for many years. Funeral services were held March 9, at Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling, Ill., in charge of Robert Keller, assisted by Paul Friesen. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Detweiler, John B., son of Rudy and Grace Detweiler, was born in Elkhart, Ind., Sept. 1, 1897; died in Gary, Ind., March 14, 1954; aged 56 y. 6 m. 13 d. He lived in the vicinity of Elkhart until two years ago when he moved to Hobart, Ind., where he with his son operated a super-market. He was married to Bessie Long, who died in 1936. To this union were born 4 daughters and one son, all of whom survive. In 1942, he married Lillian McConnell. He is survived by his wife, the 5 children, 10 grandchildren, his mother, 2 brothers, 2 sisters and many other friends and relatives. Funeral services were held at the Olive Mennonite Church in charge of D. A. Yoder, assisted by C. A. Shank. John had in earlier years been a member of the Olive Mennonite Church but canceled his membership. While at the hospital he came back to the Lord, as reported by the hospital chaplain. We rejoice in the fact of a Saviour who hearts the penitent's plea.

Hershey, Sem E., oldest son of Martin R. and the late Sue Eby Hershey, was born near Intercourse, pa., Aug. 30, 1906; passed away Feb. 16, 1954; aged 47 y. 5m. 17 d. Death cam instantly and was a great shock to his family and community. He had taken his tractor to a repair shop and had come about a mile on the return trip when the appointed hour of death came. Since there were no witnesses, we do not know what the Lord did to bring about death. He was found a short time later pinned beneath the tractor. On Nov. 6, 1929, he was married to Martha K. Denlinger. Besides his widow, he is survived by these children (Benjamin, servicing with PAX unit, Backnang, Germany; Leonard, Charles, Verna, Rhoda, and Miriam, all at home), also his father and theses brothers and sisters (Elizabeth-Mrs. Daniel Leaman, Lancaster, Pa.; Rohrer, Lititz, Pa.; Evelyn-Mrs. Elmer Leaman, Parkesburg, Pa.; Amos, Kinzers, Pa.; John, Sanford, Gordonville, Pa.; Eby, Ronks, Pa.; Emma and Miriam, Intercourse, Pa.). He accepted Christ early in life. He was a worker at the Meadville Mission since its beginning in 1935 and superintendent of the Sunday school since 1940. His death is a loud call to the community he was serving. We can see the kindness of our heavenly Father in calling one we knew was ready to meet Him Funeral services were held Feb. 19 at the Hershey Church conducted by Galen Hostetter and Parke Book. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Landis, Annie K., was born June 29, 1864; passed away Jan. 8, 1954; aged 89 y. 6 m. 9 d. She was united in marriage to Jonas Landis, who preceded her in death 28 years. To this union were born one son and 3 daughters. The son passed away as an infant, and 2 daughters also preceded her in death. She is survived by one daughter (Mrs. Albert Yoder) with whom she had her home. One brother and 2 sisters (John Witmer, Lizzie and Sussie Witmer), 6 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren also survive. She accepted Christ as her Saviour about 62 years ago and united with the Mennonite Church, and was a faithful member of Good's congregation at her death. Funeral services were held at Good's Church, Jan. 12, conducted by Clarence Lutz and Ira Z. Miller. Burial was made in Good's Cemetery.

Miller, Ruth, daughter of the late Christian M. and Amanda (Becher) Graber, was born near Canton, Ohio, Aug. 14, 1913, and died on the same farm March 18, 1954; aged 40 y. 7m. 4 d. At the age of 12 she accepted Christ as her Saviour and was received into the fellowship of the Beech Mennonite Church where she remained faithful to the end. On May 23, 1936, she was united in marriage to Roy E. Miller of the same community. To this union were born 5 children (Helen, Elnor, Roy C., Charlotte, and Donna). For the past few months her health was failing rapidly until she quietly passes away. Her parents preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband and the 5 children, all at home, one aunt (Mrs. John K. Krabill, Louisville, Ohio), one uncle (Amos Becher, Canton, Ohio), and many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted from the C. D. Spiker Fuenral Parlors, Canton, Ohio, by O. N. Johns and Rya Bair. Interment was made in the Beech Church cemetery.

Ramer, Mary Edna, daughter of Mervin and Susie S. (Martin) Ramer, was born in Elkhart Co., Ind., Dec. 26, 1934; passed away at the Baptist Hospital, little Rock, Ark., Feb. 18, 1954; aged 19 y. 1 m. 23 d. Death was due to a heart ailment from which she had suffered all her life. God, in His wisdom, saw fit to give her to us with a weak hart and hard of hearing. She went to Indiana State School for the Deaf at the age of 6 and continued there until she was 16. Then the family moved to Ozone, Ark., and she went to the Little Rock State School for the Deaf for the last two terms. After two days of illness she went to be with Jesus. Mary gave her heart to Christ in July, 1951, and was baptized on May 24, 1953. Surviving her are 4 grandparents (Menno and Martha Ramer; Joe E. and Mary Martin, of Wakarusa, Ind.), the parents, 5 brothers (Sem*, James, Paul, John, and Stevie), 8 sisters (Eva, Priscilla, Rachel, Phebe, Martha, Ruth, Joanna, and Susie), 11 uncles, 11 aunts, and a host of other relatives and friends. She had many pen pals across the country and to them she constantly witnessed, exhorting them to obedience to God's Word.
*Note - the name should be Sam - Family Researcher

Schweitzer, Phoebe, daughter of Dan and Margaret Erb, was born in Ontario, Canada, Feb. 8, 1865; departed this life at the home of her son (Bert) near Milford, Nebr., March 17, 1954; aged 89 y. 1 m. 9 d. In 1881, she moved with her family to Seward Co., Nebr., and settled near Milford. In 1882 she became a member of the East Fairview Church and later transferred her membership to the Milford Mennonite Church, where she remained a faithful member until death. In 1884 she was united in marriage to Jacob Schweitzer. To this union were born 10 children. Surviving are one daughter (Mrs. Dan Kennel, Huron, S. Dak.), 6 sons (Ezra, Litchfield, Nebr.; Emery, Bert, Homer, William, all of Milford and Dan, San Antonio, Texas), one sister (Mrs. Lizzie Yantzi, of Milford), one brother (Joel Erb, Of Milford), 28 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her husband, 3 children, 2 sisters and 4 brothers. Funeral services were held at the Milford Mennonite Church, March 20, with L. O. Schlegel in charge, assisted by W. A. Eicher and Milton Troyer. Interment was made in the church cemetery.

Stutzman, Stanley Earl, infant son of Daniel E. and Ruth Stutzman, Swan Lake, Mont., was born prematurely on March 1, 1954, and lived only an hour. Graveside services were in charge of J. G. Hochstetler in the Fairview Cemetery near Creston, Mont.

Wagner, Barbara, daughter of Henry and Katherine (Zeicet) Sauder, was born March 3, 1874, near Washington, Ill.; passed away after a prolonged illness on March 19, 1954, at her home in Eureka, Ill.; aged 80 y. 16 d. She accepted Christ at an early age and united with the Mennonite Church where she served the Lord faithful until He called her home. On Dec. 27, 1894, she was united in marriage to Christian Wagner. To this union were born 8 children (Freida-Mrs. Joseph J. Wagner, Chicago; Alvina-Mrs. Walter Zook; Pearl-Mrs. Forrest Yoder; Celesta-Mrs. Lloyd Stalter, all of Eureka; Rose-Mrs. Chris Schertz, Washington, Ill.; Ezra C., Chenoa, Ill.; and E. Sanford, San Mateo, Calif.). One son (Noah), one brother, and 4 sisters preceded her in death. She was the last remaining member of the Henry Sauder family. A number of college students made their home with the Wagners and to these she was both a counselor and friends. During the latter days of her illness she enjoyed hearing passages read from her well-marked Bible by her grandson (Larry Stalter), who lived next door. Funeral services were held at the Roanoke Mennonite Church, march 21, in charge of Sanford C. Yoder, with Ezra B. Yordy assisting. Burial was made in the church cemetery.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 15 - April 13, 1954 ­ page 357, 358

Bontrager, Gail Loren, son of Vernon and Nina (Bender) Bontrager, was born Sept. 4, 1953; died at the home of his parents March 9, 1954; aged 6 m. 5 d. The cause of his death was pneumonia. Surviving are his parents, 2 brothers (Lynn and Gene), his maternal grandparents (Mt. and Mrs. Lewis Bender, Kalona, Iowa), and other near relatives. Funeral services in charge of D. J. Fisher, Robert Yoder, and A. Lloyd Swartzendruber were held from the East Union Church on March 11, with burial in the East Union Cemetery.

Gehman, Richard Karl, son of Dr. J. Robert and Dorothy (Landis) Gehman, of Omer, Mich., was born in Fairview, Mich., Nov. 16, 1949; was drowned in a river near his home March 8, 1954; aged 4 y. 3 m. 20 d. He and his six year-old brother, Robert, were playing with their sled on the river when they came to a cement platform where water drained from a large pipe. Bobby fell, in, and little Richard pulled him to safety and then toppled in, and went under the heavy ice. A neighbor girl heard Bobby, who was hanging on a ledge of ice, cry for help, and she with an aged neighbor, dragged him to safety. Bobby was taken to the hospital and suffered no ill effect. Dickie's body has not been found though every effort possible has been made. He is survived by his parents and 3 brothers (J. Robert, James Edward, and Joseph Charles). Memorial services were held at Au Gres on March 13 conducted by Nelson Averill of Twining Baptist Church, assisted by Jos. Atherton, of Fairview, Mich.

Gingerich, Ida, daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Knepp) Miller, was born in Johnson Co., Iowa, Jan. 27, 1886; died at the home of her daughter (Mrs. Donald Snider, Kalona, Iowa), March 22, 1954; aged 68 y. 1 m. 25 d. On March 3 she was stricken and taken to the Mercy Hospital at Iowa City, where she was a patient for 11 days, when she was able to be taken to the home of her daughter. She seemingly was making satisfactory recovery until Monday when a blood clot on the brain caused her death 12 hours later. On May 19, 1906, she was united in marriage to Lewis O. Gingerich. To this union six children were born. One daughter died in infancy. Surviving are her husband, 5 children (Viola-Mrs. Glen Swartzendruber, Parnell, Iowa; Evelyn-Mrs. Albert Baumgartner, of Iowa City; Mrs. Luella Linebaugh, Miamisburg, Ohio; Mrs. Donald Snider, of Kalona, and Wilson J., Deer Creek, Ill.), one stepdaughter (Mrs. Sam Bender, Of Kalona), 6 grandchildren, 4 sisters (Mrs. Joe M. Yoder, of Iowa City; Mrs. Jason Boiler, Mrs. Christ Troyer, and Mrs. Omar Gingerich, all of Kalona), and a large number of other relatives and friends. She accepted Christ as her Saviour in her youth, united with the Mennonite Church and was a faithful member of the East Union Congregation at the time of her death. Funeral services were held from the East Union Church, conducted by D. J. Fisher and A. Lloyd Swartzendruber, with burial in the East Union Cemetery.

Horst, Abraham G., son of Jacob L. and Elizabeth (Martin) Horst, was born in Washington Co., Md., Nov. 4, 1881; passed away at his home near Hagerstown, Md., Feb. 24, 1954; aged 72 y. 3 m. 20d. On Feb. 1, 1906, he was married to Susie H. Baer. He always enjoyed good health until June, 1949, when he suffered a heart attack from which he fully recovered. Eleven days before his death, he had a stroke from which he never regained consciousness. He was a faithful member of the Miller Mennonite Church. Besides his wife, he is survived by 6 children (Edna Horst, Reading, Pa.; Adin H., and Irvin J., Hagerstown, Md.; Mable Horst, Harrisonburg, Va.; Lesher B., Chambersburg, Pa., and Elva Horst, at home), 6 sisters (Lizzie-Mrs. Elijah Mellinger, and Lydia-Mrs. Arthur Spangler, both of New Holland, Pa.; Katie-Mrs. John Layman, Denbigh, Va.; Amanda-Mrs. Amos Hege, Chambersburg, Pa.; Marla-Mrs. Jonas Martin, Terre Hill, Pa., and Fanny Horst, Maugansville, Md.), and 20 grandchildren. Four brother and 4 sisters preceded him in death. Funeral services were held at Miller's Mennonite Church, Feb. 27, in charge of Samuel Martin, Moses Horst, and Amos Martin. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Mast, Catherine Ann, daughter of the late Abraham and Anna (Miller) Mast, was born Feb. 13, 1876, at Benton, Ohio; passed away at Pomerene Memorial Hospital at Millersburg, Ohio, March 26, 1954; aged 77 y.1m. 13 d. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother (Sam E.), and 3 sisters (Mrs. Levi Miller, Mrs. David Miller, and Mrs. W. A. Burkey). In her youth she was baptized and united with the Martins Creek Church where she was a member at the time of her death. She is survived by one sister (Mrs. Eliza Snyder) and a number of nephews and nieces. Funeral services were held at the Hunter Funeral Home in Millersburg, March 29, with D. D. Miller and S. W. Sommer in charge. Burial was made in the Millersburg Cemtery.

Miller, Clarence Eugene, son of Joseph and Leona (Stoll) Miller, was born Dec. 1, 1952; died unexpectedly Dec. 27, 1953, while being taken to the doctor; aged 1 y. 26 d. He is survived by his parents, one brother (Ronald Lee), 2 sisters (Brenda Kay and Karen Sue) grandparents (Noah and Maggie Miller), grandmother (Amanda Stoll), great-grandfather (Peter R. Miller), and great-grandmother (Lydia Stoll). Funeral services were held Dec. 29 at the Berea Mennonite Church, Montgomery, Ind., in charge of Tobias Slaubaugh, David Graber, and Edd P. Shrock, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Nusbaum, Amos, was born near Middlebury, Ind., July 27, 1868; passed away March 12, 1954; aged 85 y. 7 m. 13 d. He had been ill for the past four months. On July 7, 1889, he was married to Anna Sunthimer. They resided in the same community for 64 years. One son (Oliver) preceded him in death. Surviving are his wife, 2 daughters (Marie-Mrs. Wesley Breniser and Grace-Mrs. Earl Hostetler, both of Middlebury), 11 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. Bro. Nusbaum was ordained to the ministry in 1907 and faithful served the Clinton Brick congregation for 47 years. He was a kind, loving and faithful worker for the Lord. His interest and concern for the welfare of the church was manifested by his messages which were often give in deep sincerity and tears. Funeral services were held at the Clinton Brick Church, March 15, in charge of Amos Kauffman with Oscar Hostetler assisting. Burial took place in the Forest Grove Cemetery.

Shantz, Carrie Catharine, daughter of Enoch and Catharine (Good) Erb, was born in Waterloo Co., Ont., Jan. 30, 1880; passed away March 11, 1954; aged 74 y. 1 m. 11 d. In early womanhood she united with the Mennonite Church and remained faithful to the time of her death. In 1917 she was united in marriage to the late John S. Shantz, who preceded her in death in 1924. She leaves to mourn one daughter (Alene-Mrs. Howard Jewitt), 3 grandchildren, and 3 sisters (Mrs. Matilda Cressman, Kitchener, Ont.; Mrs. Manasseh Hallman, Petersburg, Ont.; and Mrs. Addis Cressman, New Hamburg, Ont.). Two sisters preceded her in death. Funeral services at Erb Street Mennonite Church, Waterloo, Ont., were in charge of Leonard Haarer, assisted by Clare Shantz. Burial was made in the Waterloo Mennonite Cemetery.

Stauffer, Lizzie K., daughter of the late Henry R. and Mary H. (Kreider) Stauffer, was born in East Lampeter Twp., Lancaster Co., Pa., Jan. 19, 1874; passed away very unexpectedly at the Mennonite Home, Lancaster, Pa., March 13, 1954; aged 80 y.1 m. 24 d. She united with the Mellinger Mennonite Church in her youth, and ten years later transferred to the East Chestnut Street congregation, where she was a member for more than fifty years. Surviving are one brother (Amos K.), one nephew, and 2 nieces, all of Lancaster, Pa. Funeral services were held at the Mennonite Home in charge of D. Stoner Krady and Landis Brubaker. Interment was made in the Stumptown Mennonite Cemetery.

Worline, Lenore, daughter of William and Mary Waters, was born in Putnam Co., Ohio, June 10, 1903; fell asleep in Jesus at her home near Swanton, Ohio, Feb. 17, 1954; aged 50 y. 8 m. 7 d. She was united in marriage to Coy Worline on March 24, 1920. This union was blessed with 3 sons. She is survived by her husband, 2 sons (Arlo, Swanton, Ohio, and George Waters, Morenci, Mich.), and many other relatives and friends. One son (Lyle), her parents, and one brother preceded her in death. She accepted Christ and was faithful until death. She had been in ill health for over three years. Over a period of six and seven years she made a home for 13 boys from the Child's Welfare. Funeral services were held at the Springfield Township Mennonite Church, Feb. 20, with Raymon Richer and Elden Merillat in charge Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Yocum, Lulu E., wife of Samuel Yocum and daughter of the late Amos L. and Susan (Eberly) Risser, was born Jan. 27, 1888; passed away at her home March 1, 1954, after an illness of 18 months; aged 66 y. 1 m. 4 d. She was a member of the Erb Mennonite Church. Surviving are her husband and a daughter (Ruth-Mrs. H. Clay Esbenshade, Lancaster, Pa.), 5 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and a host of friends. Funeral services were held at the Erb Mennonite Church, March 5, in charge of Homer Bomberger and Joseph Boll, Jr. Burial was made in the Erb Mennonite Cemetery.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 16 - April 20, 1954 --- page 381, 382

Gingrich, Abram S., son of the late Bishop and Mrs. Abraham Gingrich, was born in North Woolwich, Ont., Aug. 31, 1886; died suddenly of a heart attack March 30, 1954; aged 67 y. 6 m. 28 d. His wife, the former Lauretta R. Snyder, predeceased him in 1945. Surviving are 4 children (John and Isabel, Bridgeport, Ont.; Mary-Mrs. Arnold Musselman, Kitchener, Ont.; and Ruth-Mrs. Lloyd Jantzi, Wellesley, Ont.), 5 brothers (Cyrus, of Alberta; Angus, New Hamburg, Ont., and Ira, Addison, and Irvin, all of Guernsey, Sask.), 2 sisters (Mrs. Abram Snider, Guernsey, Sask., and Mrs. Henry Knoll, Elmira, Ont.), and 4 grandchildren. He accepted Christ in his youth and united with the Mennonite Church at Elmira. In 1927 he moved to the Breslau district, transferring his membership to the Cressman Mennonite Church, in which fellowship he remained until his sudden passing. He served in various capacities in the local congregation. The funeral was held April 2 in the Cressman Mennonite Church with Oscar Burkholder as minister in charge. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Good, Amos C., son of Jacob and Emma Good, was born July 13, 1901; passed away as a result of a heart attack on March 9, 1954, at his home in Elkhart, Ind.; aged 52 y. 7 m. 26 d. Surviving are his widow, the former Alpha Welty to whom he was married on June 22, 1928, a foster daughter (Nancy Lou Welty), and the following brothers and sisters (Emory, Hopedale, Ill.; Mrs. Ella Mast, Kokomo, Ind.; Jacob, of Elkhart; Raymon, of Chicago; Irven, of Goshen; Mrs. Anna Swartz, Turner, Mich.; Mrs. Bertha Swartz, Loogootee, Ind., and Mrs. Lizzie Miler, Lagrange, Ind.). There are a number of nephews and nieces. His parents and two brother preceded him in death. He united with the church in his youth at the Howard-Miami Church near Kokomo, Ind., and for many years had been a member of the Prairie Street Mennonite Church, Elkhart, Ind., where funeral services in charge of J. B. Shenk and D. A. Yoder were held on March11. Interment was made in the Prairie Street Cemetery.

Hershberger, Savilla, daughter of the late Solomon D. and Catherine (Yutzy) Yoder, was born near Grantsville, Md., July 4, 1877; died in the Meyersdale, Pa., Community Hospital on Jan. 30, 1954; aged 76 y. 6 m. 25 d. In her youth she accepted Christ as her Saviour and united with the Amish Mennonite Church where she labored faithfully to the end. She was married to Noah E. Hershberger on Dec. 2, 1894. To this union were born 8 children, of whom the eldest Annie, died at the age of 9 months. Also preceding her in death were her husband, who died Dec. 6, 1926, 2 full brothers, 5 half brothers, one half sister, 7 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Surviving are 7 children (Simon N., Wellman, Iowa; Sadie-Mrs. Elmer D. Schrock, Grantsville, Md.; Vernie-Mrs. Daniel S. Lichty, Oakland, Md.; Lydia-Mrs. Samuel A. Beachy, Salisbury, Pa.; Elmer N., Springs, Pa.; Fannie-Mrs. Noah S. Beachy, and Ervin N. both of Meyersdale, Pa.). The children were are present for the funeral. She also leaves 31 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, one aunt (Mrs. Russel Engle), and numerous other relatives and friends. She was taken to the hospital for observation for a heart condition and passed away two and one-half days after entering. Funeral services were conducted at the Mountain View Church near Salisbury, Pa., by Jacob J. Hershberger, Lynnhaven, Va., in German and A. J. Metzler, Scottdale, Pa., in the English language. Interment was made in the Niverton Cemetery.

Hochstetler, Edna Elizabeth, daughter of John H. and Rhoda Yoder, was born Aug. 27, 1894, at Bertrand, Nebr.; met her death by a train-automobile accident at Graceton, Minn., March 26, 1954; aged 59 y. 6 m. 29 d. In 1904, at the age of 8 years, she moved with her parents to North Dakota, where she lived the remainder of her life. She was baptized and united with the Old Order Amish Mennonite Church on Oct. 1, 1911. Later she transferred her membership to the Mennonite Church, where she remained a faithful member until death. On Oct. 31, 1912, she was united in marriage to Eli G. Hochstetler. To this union 5 sons and 2 daughters were born (Melvin and Rhoda-Mrs. Joseph Bacher, Wolford, N. Dak.; Perry, Williams, Minn.; Emery, Oxford, Iowa; Vernon, Graceton, Minn.; Dora Belle---Mrs. David Bacher of Wolford and Carl, Mylo, N. Dak.). Surviving besides her husband and 7 children are 24 grandchildren and one sister (Fanny-Mrs. A. J. Stoll, Wheatland, N. Dak.). Her parents, 2 brothers, and one grandchild preceded her in death. Funeral services were conducted at the Lake View Mennonite Church, March 30, by Rufus Beachy and Floyd E. Kauffman.

Hostetler, Daniel C., son of Christian C. and Anna (Zuercher) Hostetler, was born in Canton Bern., Switzerland, July 29, 1870; passed away at his home in Orrville, Ohio, Feb. 19, 1954, after several days of illness; aged 83 y. 6 m. 21 d. Since the age of ten, he lived in Wayne County, Ohio. He confessed Christ in early youth and became a member of the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church. In later years he transferred his membership to the Martins Mennonite Church where he served until death. He was married to Elizabeth Bixler on Oct. 14, 1897. He leaves his wife, 5 children (Laura-Mrs. Elton R. Yoder, Esther E.-Mrs. Harry M. Hostetler and Marvin E., all of Orrville; Mahlon W., Canton, Ohio, and Ellis M., Mentor, Ohio), 14 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, one sister (Mary Ann, Kidron, Ohio), and 4 brothers (Jacob C., and Simon C., Kidron, Ohio; Peter C., Salem, Oreg., and John C., Dalton, Ohio). Two children preceded him in death. Six years ago he and his wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. Funeral services at the church were in charge of Stanford Mumaw, assisted by Virgil Gerig, O. N. Johns, and Don Augsburger. Interment was made in Martins Cemetery.

Johns, Rachel Nanlee, daughter of Galen and Edith (Hoover) Johns, was born Dec. 20, 1952. Together with 2 brothers (Joe Allen and Steven) and one sister (Lois) she helped to make the home a happy one. On March 23, 1954, Jesus took her to her heavenly home; aged 1 y. 2 m. 24 d. Her death was caused by accidental toxication after having swallowed a number of pain relieving tablets. She passed away at the Goshen, Ind., hospital the following day. Funeral services were held March 25, in the Benton Mennonite Church, with Lewis Miller and Edwin J. Yoder in charge. Burial was made in the cemetery east of the church.

Luther, Robert M., was born in Westmoreland Co., Pa., May 24, 1872; departed this life at Sarasota, Fla., Feb. 2, 1954; aged 81 y. 8 m. 8 d. He is survived by his companion, Ella H. Weaver Luther, with whom he journeyed through life for over 61 years. Also surviving are 8 sons and 2 daughters (R. Bruce, Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Newton N., Algie T., Lydia Belle-Mrs. Charles Caldwell, and William C., all of Johnstown; J. Daniel, Three Rivers, Mich.; Edna Elizabeth-Mrs. Lloy A. Kniss, Witmer, Pa.; Martin R., Dayton, Ohio; Harold S., Greensburg, Pa., and George E., Silver Springs, Md.), 34 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. He was a faithful member of the Weaver Mennonite Church for more than 55 years. Services were conducted in Sarasota on Feb. 3 by T. H. Brenneman, after which the body was shipped to Johnstown where services were conducted in the Weaver Mennonite Church on Feb. 5, with Harold E. Thomas in charge, assisted by Aldus Wingard and Sanford Shetler. Interment was made in the Richland Cemetery.

McCormick, Mary, daughter of Martin and Susan (Meucher) Shoup, was born May 12, 1866, in Mt. Eaton, Ohio; died March 30, 1954, at the home of her son William, North Lima, Ohio; aged 87 y. 10 m. 18 d. She was in failing health for a number of years and bedfast the last four months. She was a member of the North Lima Mennonite Church. In 1883 she was married to Jacob McCormick, who preceded her in death in 1931. She leaves a daughter Mrs. Rosela Wingerter, of West Salem), 2 sons (William, North Lima, Ohio, and Ralph, Canfield, Ohio), 2 brothers (Elmer Shoup, West Salem, Ohio, and Noah, New Springfield, Ohio), 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. A son (Homer) preceded her in death. Funeral services were in charge of David Steiner. Interment was made in the North Lima Mennonite Church Cemetery.

Pletcher, Catherine Ann, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Clipp) Sherman, was born July 5, 1873, in Elkhart Co., Ind.; departed this life March 11, 1954, at the farm home near Wakarusa, where she had resided for many years; aged 80 y. 7 m. 6 d. On Dec. 23, 1888, she was united in marriage to Frank Pletcher. To this union 11 children were born, 8 of whom survive (Ralph and Earl, both of Elkhart, Ind.; Della-Mrs. John Nusbaum, Edna-Mrs. Howard parcel, and Celesta-Mrs. Rolland Troxel, all of Elkhart; Ruth-Mrs. Ray Blake, of Mishawaka; Ethel-Mrs. George Hunsberger, of Wakarusa, and Treva, at home). Nine grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends also survive. Three children (Myrtle, Roy, and Lowell) preceded her in death. After the death of her husband in 1933, she lived with her children. She was for many years a member of the Olive Mennonite Church and loved to attend as long as health permitted, and expressed her trust in Christ as her Saviour to the end of life. Funeral services were held at the Olive Mennonite Church March 14, in charge of Elno Steiner and Clarence Shank. Burial was made in the Olive Cemetery.

Rufenacht, Amos, son of John and Barbara Rufenacht, was born near Archbold, Ohio, Dec. 23, 1873; died March 26, 1954; aged 80 y. 3 m.3 d. On Nov. 30, 1899, he was united in marriage to Lizzie Short, who preceded him in death on March 25, 1943. This union was blessed by the birth of 4 children (Glen, Jesse, Mary, and Ruth). In his younger years he accepted Christ as his personal Saviour and united with the Central Mennonite Church, where he remained a faithful member until death. Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers, and one daughter (Ruth). Surviving are 2 sons, one daughter, all residing near Archbold, Ohio, 14 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted at the Central Mennonite Church by P. L Frey, Jesse Short, and Henry Wyse.

Willard, Jeremiah, son of John and Amanda (Fredricks) Willard, was born in Elkhart, Ind., Jan. 24, 1892; departed this life at the Elkhart General Hospital, March 25 1954; aged 62 y. 2 m. 1 d. On Dec. 13, 1917, he married Goldie May Lechlitner. He suffered much in the last two years. Surviving are his widow and 11 children (Pearl-Mrs. Chester Kane, South Bend, Ind.; Bernice-Mrs. Eaton Campbell, New London, Conn.; Deloris-Mrs. Lamar Brown, Florence-Mrs. Oliver Lowell, Bertha-Mrs. Donald Brown, and Ruth-Mrs. Lester O' Bryan, all of Elkhart; Ivan, Gary, Ind.; Russell, Robert, Ralph, and Walter, all of Elkhart), 2 sisters (Mrs. John Eberly, of South Bend and Mrs. Roy Schrock, Vandalia, Mich.), and 13 grandchildren. On son (John) preceded him in death. He attended the Oslo United Missionary Church. Funeral services were held at the Olive Mennonite Church, March 28, in charge of Dean Freed and Clarence Shank with burial in the Olive Cemetery.

Kanagy, Lydia Ann, daughter of Elias D. and Susannah Oswald Troyer, was born in Holmes Co., Ohio, Dec. 19, 1872; died March 23, 1954; aged 81 y. 3 m. 4 d. With her family she lived in pioneer times and conditions in the Michigan forest, later moving to Kansas and back to Illinois in covered wagons. Later they moved to Champaign Co., Ohio, where Lydia became a member of the Oak Grove Mennonite Church. She married Jacob Kanagy on Dec. 22, 1901. To this union was born one son (Vernon) who was taken from them at the age of 17; she never seemed to have recovered from this loss. She leaves her husband, 2 brothers (P. A. Troyer, of West Liberty, and M. L. Troyer, Elida, Ohio), 3 sisters (Mrs. Elizabeth Yoder, West Liberty, Ohio; Mrs. J. I. Byler, Shipshewana, Ind., and Mrs. S. W. Witmer, Goshen, Ind.), and 28 nieces and nephews. On sister (Martha) and 2 brothers (Eli and Noah) preceded her in death.

Stuckey, Emanuel, son of the late Peter C. and Anna (Short) Stuckey, was born near Stryker, Ohio, April 12, 1878; passed away at the home of his son, Marlin, near Archbold, Ohio, March 3, 1954; aged 75 y. 10 m. 19 d. On Jan. 10, 1901, he was united in marriage to Sarah King, who passed away on Sept. 18, 1939. Shortly after their marriage he was converted and together with his wife joined the Mennonite Church. He was a regular attendant at the Lockport Church as long as health permitted. To this union were born 3 children (Ilva Ann-Mrs. Harvey Grieser, Wauseon, Ohio; Marlin K., and Denver N., Archbold, Ohio). Besides his children and their companions, he is survived by 12 grandchildren, 10 brothers and sisters (Samuel, Aaron, and Mrs. Leah Stevens, Wauseon, Ohio; Peter and Dan, Stryker, Ohio; Mrs. Lizzie Nafziger, Mrs. Sarah Clinger and Elmer, of Archbold; Mrs. Mary Miller, Louisville, Ohio, and Mrs. Malinda Short, West Unity, Ohio), He was preceded in death by his wife, one grandchild, 3 brothers, and 3 sisters. Funeral services were held at the Lockport Church, March 6, conducted by the Lockport ministry. Burial was made in the Lockport Cemetery.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 17 - April 27, 1954 --- page 405, 406

Christner, Agnes Marie, daughter of Monroe and Edna (Hershberger) Christner, was born in Topeka, Ind., Sept. 16, 1933; passed away at her home near Lagrange, Ind., April 4, 1954; aged 20 y. 6 m. 20 d. She leaves her parents, one sister (Esther), 5 brothers (Arnold, Plymouth, Mich.; Allen, Adrian, Gerald, and Larry, at home) 4 grandparents, 7 uncles, 4 aunts and many other relatives and friends. Marie entered the Lagrange County Hospital on Feb. 27, where she was a patient for 29 days. Eight days before her death she was taken to her home. Death came as a result of broncho-pneumonia. At the age of ten Marie accepted Christ as her Saviour and became a member of the Maple Grove Mennonite Church. Later the family moved to their present home near Plato, Lagrange, Ind., where she served faithfully. Funeral services were held at the Plato Mennonite Church, April 8, in charge of Edwin Yoder and Willis C. Troyer, with burial in the Shore Mennonite Cemetery.

Histand, Ronald Eugene, infant son of Claude H. and Arlene A. Histand, Perkasie, Pa., was born prematurely April 5, 1954, and lived only two days. Burial was made in the Blooming Glen Mennonite Cemetery, April 8.

Hofstetter, Mary Ann, daughter of Christian and Anna (Zuercher) Hofstetter, was born in Bern, Switzerland, Nov. 4, 1871; died after a brief illness, April 8, 1954; aged 82 y. 5 m. 4 d. At the age of nine, she with her family migrated to this county, making their home in this community. She became a member of the Mennonite Church in 1889. Her constant prayer was that she would remain faithful to her Lord and Master. Not only was she faithful to God but to many members of her family who needed her, caring for others whose health was impaired and assisting in those homes where she was needed. For the past 20 years she resided with her niece, Mrs. Levi Lehman, and her family, where she was appreciated for her unselfish devotion. Her cheerfulness as she worked and her many kindnesses will long live in the hearts of those she loved. Her parents, one sister, and 5 brothers preceded her in death. Surviving her are 3 brothers (Peter, Salem, Oreg.; John C., Dalton, Ohio, and Simon, Kidron, Ohio), and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Funeral services were held April 11 at the Kidron Mennonite Church, in charge of Reuben Hofstetter, Allen Bixler, and Isaac Zuercher. Burial was made in the church cemetery.

Martin, Dean Ray, infant son of Clinton and Esther (Davis) Martin, Stuarts Draft, Va., was born Feb. 25, 1954; died March 25, 1954; aged one month. Besides his parents he is survived by his twin brother (Dale Lynn), an older brother (Gary), and his grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. John Martin, and Mr. and Mrs. George Davis, Waynesboro, Va.). Graveside services were held March 27 at the Springdale Church cemetery, conducted by J. R. Driver.

Middleton, Mary L., was born April 11, 1876; died March 22, 1954, at Hynes Convalescent Home, Ann Arbor St., Flint, Mich.; aged 77 y. 11 m. 11 d. She had been blind for the last 20-some years and suffered a stroke on Jan. 2, 1954. She accepted Christ and united with the Flint Mennonite Church in 1949. She was the mother of 4 sons and 2 daughters. She was a sincere child of God and a real testimony to those who visited her. Funeral services were conducted at the Dodds-Dumonow Funeral Home by Jesse L. Yoder. Interment was made in the Flint Memorial Park.

Miller, Lamora, daughter of Valentine and Polly (Miller) Ringler, was born in Lagrange Co., Ind., Aug. 5, 1873; passed away April 3, 1954; aged 80 y. 7 m. 28 d. She lived most of her life in the Middlebury community, but went from Goshen to the Froh Brothers Homestead, Sturgis, Mich., where she spent the last four months. At an early age she accepted Christ as her Saviour and was a member of the Forks Mennonite Church at her decease. On Dec. 20, 1890, she was united in marriage to Andrew J. Miller, who preceded her in death March 7, 1946. Surviving are 6 children (William L., Blissfield, Mich.; Anna-Mrs. Walter Burris, Homewood, Ill.; Edna-Mrs. Jack Minar, and Mrs. Mary Wagner, both of Goshen, Ind.; Leo E., Wellston, Mich.; and Albert, Bristol, Ind.), 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 4 brothers (George and James, Albuquerque, N. Mex.; Olen, Quincy, Mich.; and Calvin, Limon, Colo.), one sister (Mrs. Minnie Rhodes, Mexico, Ind.), and many friends. Funeral services were held April 6 at the Forks Mennonite Church in charge of Earley Bontrager and Wilbur Yoder with burial in the Forest Grove Cemetery.

Miller, Robert Lamar, son of Charles H. and Dorothy (Witmer) Miller, was born April 16, 1953; died Jan. 6, 1954, at the York Hospital; aged 8 m. 21 d. Besides his parents he is survived by these brothers and sisters (G. Glenn, Betty Anne, Marian, Dorothy Lou, Pearl, and Rhoda), his grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Christ K. Miller and Mr. and Mrs. Elam W. Witmer), a number of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Funeral services were held at the Manchester Mission, Mt. Wolf, Pa., with Richard Danner and Joseph Martin in charge. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Overholt, Ella, daughter of the late Louis and Elizabeth Lite, was born near Logan, Mich., March 12, 1882; died at Pennoch Hospital, Hastings, Mich., April 1, 1954; aged 72 y. 20 d. On June 4, 1904, she was married to Amos Kauffman, who preceded her in death Feb. 6, 1913. To this union were born 4 sons (Paul, deceased; Norman, Clarksville, Mich.; Niles, Goshen, Ind.; and Glen, Alto, Mich.), and one daughter (Ruth-Mrs. Harold Christophel, Clarksville, Mich.). On July 10, 1916, she was marred to John Overholt, and to them was born one son (Homer, Clarksville, Mich.). She united with the Bowne Mennonite Church in her youth and remained a faithful member all her life. She was anemic and suffered from other complications, which became more serious the last several months. She was the last of a family of 3 sons and 3 daughters. She leaves to mourn her departure her husband, 4 sons, one daughter, one step-son (George, Alto, Mich.), one stepdaughter (Lily Emerich, Grand Rapids, Mich.), 36 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held April 4 at the Bowne Mennonite Church with Daniel Zook, Ira S. Johns, and T. E. Schrock officiating. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Peters, Emma, widow of D. J. Peters, deceased, died on her way home from the Pond Bank Mennonite Church, March 26, 1954. She is survived by 5 daughters, whom she had by her first husband, William Hess (Mrs. Charlie Rock, Mrs. Harry Beard, Mrs. Clarence Rock, and Mrs. John Coffee, all of Chambersburg, Pa.; and Mrs. Mary Rook, Baltimore, Md.), 30 grandchildren, and 33 great-grandchildren. She had been a member of the Mennonite Church for about ten years and then of the Pentecostal Church until her death. Funeral services were conducted at the Pond Bank Mennonite Church, March 29, by Harvey E. Shank and Theodore Gaylord. Interment was made in the Pond Bank Cemetery.

Schrock, May (Birky), was born near Morton, Ill., Sept. 19, 1862; passed away at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. Alta Detweiler, Fisher, Ill., March 24, 1954; aged 91 y. 6 m. 5 d. She was bedfast for 18 months. On Feb. 19, 1885, she was married to John Schrock. He preceded her in death in July 1951. They were the parents of 2 children (Albert E., and Fannie-Mrs. J. A. Heiser). Albert preceded her in death in February, 1917, and Fannie in December, 1950. Surviving are her daughter-in-law (Mrs. Josephine Schrock, Eureka, Ill.), son-in-law (J. A. Heiser, Fisher, Ill.), 8 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She accepted Christ in her youth and bore testimony of her love for her Saviour. She was a member of the East Bend Mennonite Church. Funeral services were held at the East Bend Church in charge of Ezra Yordy. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Stauffer, Lydia, daughter of the late Aaron and Magdalena (Snider) Reed, was born near Wakarusa, Ind., Sept. 30, 1882; died at her home in Goshen, Ind., April 6, 1954; aged 71 y. 6 m. 6 d. Death was due to heart failure. She was united in marriage to Ezra N. Stauffer on Nov. 25, 1902, and in 1903 she and her husband united with the Wisler Mennonite Church. A number of years later they transferred their membership to the Yellow Creek Mennonite Brick Church. She is survived by her husband, 4 sons, and 3 daughters (Nelson R., Earl R., Lloyd J., and Elmer R., all of Goshen, Ind.; Florence-Mrs. Clair Knepp, of Fish Lake, Walkerton, Ind.; Mary and Clara, at home), 11 grandchildren, a brother (Wilson S. Reed, Goodville, Pa.), and a sister (Hannah-Mrs. David L. Martin, of Wakarusa). She was preceded in death by her parents and oldest sister. They celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary on Thanksgiving Day, 1952. This marks the first death in this family after a period of over 51 years. Services were held at the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church in charge of Peter B. Wiebe assisted by Kenneth Good, Morton, Ill.

Turner, Bertie Secrist, was born July20, 1873, near Criders, Va.; died April 6, 1954; aged 80 y. 8 m. 17 d. In 1893, she was married to J. Hop Turner, who was later ordained to the ministry. He preceded her in death in 1945. She was a faithful member of the Mennonite Church. She is survived by 4 daughters and 4 sons. Services were conducted April 8 at the house by Ray McDorman, pastor of the Methodist Church, and at Trissels Mennonite Church, near Broadway, Va., by John Stauffer and Timothy Showalter.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.


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