Herald of Truth Obituaries - August, 1896

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Herald of Truth, Vol. XXXIII, No. 15, August 1, 1896, page 236, 237, 238

ULRICH HEGE was born on the 13th of January, 1812 in Bockschaft. His father, Christian Hege, was a lessee of a large estate. His mother's maiden name was Elizabeth Glueck. The early years of the deceased were spent on his father's estate. Being of somewhat frail build and very fond of books, he entered into the employ of a merchant at Heidelberg in his 20th year. But obeying ceaseless prompting of the Spirit to teach the word of God which he had learned and loved, among his fellow believers, he went to Basle, Switzerland, where he remained in the Mission school until March 1836, studying the Scriptures. Finding that this sedentary life was injurious to his health, he returned to his home, and in 1839 he assumed the charge of part of his father's estate. He was married in the same year to his now surviving companion, Lydia Fellmann of Bruchhaeuserhof near Heidelberg. This union was blessed with 13 children, of whom 4 sons and 2 daughters survive. In 1845 he was chosen minister of his congregation, and in 1870 he was ordained bishop. He was faithful in the responsible position to which the Lord had called him, and his labors were blessed. In 1848 he moved with his family to Reihen where he conducted a store in connection with his agricultural pursuits. In 1870, in connection with Bro. Christian Schmutz of Rappenan, who died in 1873, and other co-laborers he began the publication of the "Gemeindblatt," and served faithfully and capably as its editor for 26 years. He was devoted to the work and his work has no doubt proved a blessing to many. In him the words of the Psalmist found fulfillment: "Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the house of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age," etc., Psa. 92:13-15. The last words the deceased uttered to his son were, "Saget den Bruedern: Liebet euch unter einander" (Tell the brethren: Love one another.) His age was 84 years and 5 months. He deceased has in his earthly life gathered but little of this world's goods, and many were the trials through which he passed, but he rejoiced in a living Savior by whose Spirit he was led, and he labored to lay up those treasures which moth and rust corrupt not and which thieves can not steal. His only hope was in Jesus, and he welcomed the death messenger. At his burial, the services were conducted by G. van der Smissen and Christian Hege of Breitenau, and at the Ittlingen M. H. by A. Schmutz of Bockschaft, and H. Funk of Neipperg.

Transcriber's note: I'm not sure if Gemeindblatt is spelled correctly, the type was not clear in places.

LEIS
.-Joseph Leis of near Wellesley, Waterloo Co., Ont., was born in Bavaria on the 9th of February 1817 and died on the 6th of July 1896, aged 79 years, 4 months and 27 days. He came to this country in his youth. He was married to Catherine Kennel. They lived in matrimony 52 years, 3 months and 17 days. He leaves his sorrowing widow, nine sons and four daughters and forty-three grandchildren. He lived in the house which he erected in the primeval forests of "Upper Canada" fifty-two years ago and his was the first death that occurred in the house. He was a faithful member of the Old Amish branch of the church, and died of paralysis and the infirmities of old age. A large concourse of friends followed his remains to the Wellesley graveyard on the 9th. Funeral services by Christian Gascho, Christian Zehr and John Gascho.

HARTMAN.-On the 11th of April, 1896, Emanuel Hartman, of South West, Ind., aged 41 years, 11 months and 23 days. He was sick about 12 weeks and in the early part of his sickness he saw the necessity of preparing for the eternal world, which he accomplished, if we may judge by his appearance, by repenting and accepting Christ as his salvation. He was buried at Yellow Creek on the 13th. The funeral was largely attended. Services by James McGowan and Noah Metzler. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn their loss.

"Our family circle now is broken,
Since our father dear has gone;
In our grief our hearts have spoken
Lord, Thy will, not ours be done."
NOAH METZLER.

FAUSER.-June 14, 1896, near White Oak, Lancaster Co., Pa., Katie H., daughter of Bro. and Sister Anthony Fauser, aged 3 years, 1 month and 10 days. Funeral on the 16th. Text, Psa. 103:15-18. Buried at Hernly's meeting house. This dear little girl was killed on the rail road. May the good Lord comfort the parents and family.

BRUBACHER.-Mch. 27, 1896, in Landisville, Lancaster Co., Pa., suddenly, Bro. Isaac Brubacher, aged 79 years, 16 days. Funeral on the 30th. Text, Rev. 16:15. Buried at Landisville meeting house. A large congregation assembled to pay a tribute of respect to the memory of the dear brother, and sympathize with the bereft family.

Transcriber's note: Mch. as in the original.

OESCH.-Near Philipsburg, Ont., Barbara, maiden name Nafziger, wife of John Oesch, aged 79 years, 9 months and 7 days. She was born in Imling, near Saarbourg, France, on the 11th of September, 1816. Her leaves her husband, one son and two daughters, two sisters and ten grandchildren to mourn, but not as those who have no hope. She was entirely helpless for two years and finally a stroke of paralysis came, two weeks before her death. Her remains were laid to rest in Steinman's graveyard in Wilmot Twp., and were followed to the grave by a large concourse of friends. Funeral services by Daniel Steinman from 1 Cor. 15 and by Jacob M. and Jacob Bender from John 5:24.
JOHN OESCH.

SUMMERS.-Nancy Anna Summers was born in Mifflin Co., Pa., May, 1817, united in marriage to John Bontrager, Dec. the 13th, 1835. Died in Champaign Co., Ohio, on the 10th of July, 1896, aged 79 years and 2 months. She was the mother of 11 children; two of them have gone before; 56 grandchildren living, and 9 dead; 34 great-grandchildren living and 3 dead. Her descendants in all number 113. She united with the Amish Mennonite church in her 17th year, and remained a consistent member to her end. Her aged husband, six daughters and two sons were at her bedside when she died. One son was not present. Funeral at South Union church, July 12th, conducted by J. Warye and C. K. Yoder in German and A. Miller in English, from the 90th Psalm, to an unusually large assemblage of sympathizing friends and neighbors. The Lord bless and comfort the bereaved family in this their sad bereavement. May they all meet her again in heaven. She lives an exemplary life and gave us the assurance that all was well with her soul.
C. BONTRAGER.

HUBER.-On the17th of July, 1896, in Lancaster Twp., Lancaster Co., Pa., of inflammation of the bowels, Michael L. Huber aged 75 years. He was a member of the Mennonite church for many years. A beloved companion and several children survive him.

MELLINGER.-On the 15th of July, 1896, at Baumgardner's Station, Lancaster Co., Pa., after a long illness, sister Anna M., wife of B. G. Mellinger. She was a faithful member in the Millersville Cong. She leaves her husband and 8 children to mourn their loss.

MYER.-On the 27th of June, 1896, near Witmer, Lancaster Co., Pa., Ruth, youngest daughter of Bro. Milton M. and Sister Bertha E. Myer, aged 5 months and 26 days. Funeral services by Pre. John Landis at Stumptown meeting house after which the remains of the dear little one were laid in their last resting place.

"Another little lamb has gone
To dwell with Him who gave;
Another darling little 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."

LEHMAN.-On the 17th of June, 1896, near Chambersburg, Pa., of measles, Willis F., son of Bro. J. E. and Sister Eleonora Lehman, aged 1 year and several months. Buried on the 19th at the Chambersburg meeting house. Services by P. Wadel, H. Bricker and P. H. Parret.

"Once we had a little blossom,
Full of sweetness, full of love;
But the angels came and plucked it
For the beauteous realms above."
D. D. LONG.

GROVE.-On the 24th of April, 1896, in Augusta Co., Va., Arthur Sellers, beloved son of Bro. Isaac and Sister Lizzie Grove, aged 1 year, 2 months and 21 days.

"Little Arthur was too fair,
In this cold world to stay,
So God in mercy called him home,
To dwell in endless day."

SIMON.-July 4th, 1896, near Mt. Joy, Lancaster Co., Pa., Bro. Christian Simon, aged 56 years, 9 months and 24 days. Funeral on the 9th. Text, 1 John 5:12. Buried at Erisman's meeting house.

SMELTZER.-On the 30th of June, 1896, in Harrison Twp., Elkhart Co., Ind., of dropsy, Susanna Smeltzer, aged 47 years, 10 months and 1 day. During her sickness she was led to see the necessity of consecrating herself to the service of God, and only a few days before her death she made a profession and was baptized and received into the church. She manifested a true faith, and was fully consecrated. She was buried at Yellow Creek, services were held by J. F. Funk. Peace to her ashes.

CULP.-On the 17th of July, 1896, in Harrison Twp., Elkhart Co., Ind., of the infirmities of old age, Sarah Whisler, widow of the late John Culp, aged 78 years, 1 month and 15 days. She was married to John Culp May 2nd, 1837, and lived in widowhood 28 years. She left 9 children to follow her to her last resting place. She was born in Bucks Co., Pa., in 1818 and was a sister to Bish. Jacob Whisler, who died some years ago. She was buried on the 21st at Yellow Creek, where a large concourse of people had gathered to manifest their esteem for the aged sister. Services were conducted by J. F. Funk, from Mark 13:35.

NIESLEY.-On the 12th of June, 1896, in Churchtown, Pa., David Niesley, bishop or elder in the Old Order Dunkard church. He was confined to his bed about three weeks from a stroke of paralysis, and from which he gradually sank until death ensued. He remained conscious to the last, and expressed a desire to go home. The funeral on the 15th from the home of his son Jacob was largely attended, about 400 being present. His remains were laid to rest at the Dunkard meeting house northeast of Churchtown. Funeral services by Pre. Pfoutz of Gettysburg and Pre. Barto of Mechanicsburg.

HECKMAN.-On the 5th of July, 1896, in Lostcreek Valley, Juniata Co., Pa., of the infirmities of old age, Sister Phebe Heckman, aged 88 years, 3 months and 5 days. She was a consistent member of the Mennonite church for many years, and was loved by all who knew her. Her maiden name was Sausman and she was the last of her family. She leaves two sons and one daughter and many relatives to mourn their loss. Buried at Lostcreek where appropriate services were held by William Graybill and Bish. William Auker. Text, Matt. 15:8.

HERR.-On June 28th, 1896, in Millersville, Lancaster Co., Pa., Miss Amanda M. Herr in her 35th year. She had been suffering six months or more with cancer internally, but bore her afflictions with patience and was fully reconciled to the will of God. In her home life she was esteemed by a large circle of friends and kindred and her love went out to them in kindly words and acts that will live and speak of her unselfish devotion as long as memory lasts. Her generous heart and hand lent assistance and aid to many. Her loss will be keenly felt by all who knew her. She was a member of the Lutheran church. Services at the house by Pre. Christ. Buried in the Millersville Mennonite Cemetery. Services at the church by Pre. Christ and Pre. Hertzler. Truly in the midst of life we are in death.

"Dear Manda is sleeping so free from all pain
Oh! wake not her sweet spirit to suffer again,
She slumbers so soundly, oh let her sleep on,
Her sickness is ended, her troubles are gone;
Oh, think how she suffered and moaned with pain
In the long, long hours as we soothed her in vain,
Till God in His mercy sent down from above
An angel that whispered a message of love."

FRANK.-March 10th, 1896, suddenly near Brunnerville, Lancaster Co., Pa., Bro. Henry Frank, aged 84 years, 10 months and 19 days. Funeral on the 13th. Text, Isaiah 51:2. Buried at Hess' meeting house. One granddaughter and her husband and family survive.

MUMMA.-March 27th, 1896, near Middletown, Dauphin Co., Pa., Deacon Christian Mumma, aged 83 years, 11 months and 29 days. Funeral on the 31st. Text, Psalms 37:37. Buried at Shope's meeting house. Many people assembled in token of respect for the departed brother. May the good Lord comfort the bereft family.

HESS.-On the 23rd of June, 1896, at the house of her parents, Jonas and Mary Ann Mumma of Landisville, Lancaster Co., Pa., Sister Anna, widow of the late Bro. John B. Hess who went before in 1890. She was aged 29 years and 21 days. She had been ailing for several years of consumption, which the dear sister bore patiently, trusting to meet her dear companion in that happy home where parting is unknown. One son, named Mumma Even Hess, aged 9 years, survives. On the 27th her remains were taken to their resting place at the Hess meeting house near Lititz. The funeral was largely attended. Services were conducted by Pre. Hiram Kauffman and Bish. J. N. Brubacher. Text, Phil. 1:2.

SHANK.-Caroline Shank was born in Pennsylvania, Oct. 7th, 1836, died in Elkhart Co., Ind., March 31st, 1896, aged 59 years, 5 months and 24 days. The funeral services were conducted by J. S. Lehman. Text, John 14:2.

SHREINER.-On the 13th of July, 1896, near Oregon, Lancaster Co., Pa., Katie Nora, daughter of Nathaniel and Sister Elizabeth Shreiner, aged 20 years, 2 months and 14 days. On Thursday the 9th inst, the deceased attended a funeral with usual health, but Friday morning she was unable to leave her bed. The doctor pronounced it bilious and typhoid fever. On Monday the doctor told her she must prepare for another world. She was stricken down since the sudden death of her 17 year old sister who died 6 months ago. She had withdrawn herself from the gay world and claimed to have faith, but she had not been baptized. But when the doctor told her of her condition they sent for a minister, but life was gone before he arrived. This should be a warning to all who are not in the ark of safety. These parents have within about a half a year laid by in the cool grave their two daughters. Two sons are all they have now left. On July 16th the remains of this dear daughter were interred in Hess' cemetery. Services were conducted by Pre. John Lefever, C. Risser, and J. Bucher. Text, Solomon's Song 12:1.

Transcriber's note: I'm not sure what "inst" means so I typed it as written.

KAUFMAN.-On the 13th of July, 1896, in Lyon Co., Kan., of cholera infantum, Nettie Nora, youngest daughter of Eli and Lena Kaufman, aged 4 months and 19 days. Nettie's death was very sudden. She took sick Sunday evening and died Monday evening. It was hard to say goodbye, yet she was a bud plucked from a family circle and transplanted to bloom forever in that garden where bouquets never wither, and lilies never fade. Her remains were laid to rest on the 14th in the Mulberry graveyard. Funeral service by Joseph Schlegel from 1 Peter 1:24.

We had a little Nettie once,
She was a darling child;
We loved her, ah, perhaps too well,
For soon she slept and died.

We often think of her sweet face,
Her ever faithful love;
Our very hearts she oft beguiled, -
She dwells with God above.

This holy bud so young and fair,
Called hence by early doom,
Just came to show how fair a flower
In Paradise may bloom.

Go, darling, little loved one, go,
A mother's heart can tell,
And none but hers can fully know
How hard to say, Farewell."
HER AUNT.

WAKEFIELD.-June 26th, 1896, in Columbia, Lancaster Co., Pa., Mrs. Mary Bard Wakefield, aged 90 years, 7 months and 2 days. Funeral on the 29th. Text, Psalm 71:9. Buried at Chesnut Hill meeting house. A goodly congregation assembled in token of respect for the deceased.

MESSINGER.-On the 9th of July, 1896, near Bluffton, Ohio, of dropsy and a complication of diseases, Bro. Geo. F. Messinger, aged 66 years, 5 months and 1 day. Bro. Messinger emigrated from Baden, Germany to America with his parents in his 22nd year. Four years later (April 22nd, 1856) he married widow Fannie Steiner, maiden name Newenswander, and soon after both united with the Mennonite church. He was a devoted Christian, always ready to assist in any good work and never made enemies, for it seemed "possible" for him to "live in peace with all men." He had a great desire to be relieved from the cares of this world and to go home to be with his Savior. He has been one of the faithful ones at Zion who stood by his post during all the fiery trials of the congregation in the years past. His absence will be greatly felt. He leaves six children, eight grandchildren, one brother, one sister and many friends to mourn his departure. Funeral services by C. P. and M. S. Steiner, from Jer. 12:5. Buried at Zion.

HOSTETTER.-March 14th, 1896, in Manheim, Lancaster Co., Pa., Bro. Jacob P. Hostetter, aged 56 years and 1 month. Funeral on the 18th. Text, 2 Cor. 5:1. Buried at Kauffman's meeting house. A large congregation assembled in token of love for the dear brother. He was a faithful brother in the church. May the good Lord comfort his dear children.

HEISEY.-March 20th, 1896, near Hernly's meeting house, Lancaster Co., Pa., Bro. Chr. Heisey, aged 76 years, 5 months and 15 days. Funeral on the 24th. Text, Psalm 103:15, 16. Buried at Hernly's meeting house. May the Lord comfort the family.

WITTMYER.-March 21st, 1896, near Annville, Lebanon Co., Pa., Pre. Cyrus Wittmyer, aged 67 years, 1 month and 11 days. Funeral on the 25th. Text, Luke 2:29-32. Buried at Gingerich's meeting house. A widow and one son survive him.

THOMAN.-May 24th, 1896, near West Liberty, Logan Co., Ohio, Eri E., daughter of Jeff and Mary Krepp, and wife of John Thoman, aged 21 years, 6 months and 2 days. Sister Thoman, though young in years, had suffered much, but God who is wise to err and too good to be unkind, in His own good time sent relief though death. She leaves father and mother, sister, husband and child, with many friends and relatives to mourn her early departure. Funeral services from South Union church on the 26th, conducted by Pre. Bean in English and David Plank in German. Interment in the Yoder family burying ground on Ludlow Road.

KROPF.-On the 16th of April 1896, near Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, Jacob Kropf, aged 42 years, 9 months and 9 days. Buried on the 18th at Eden M. H. Funeral services by D. Z. Yoder and Gabriel Shroyer.

FISHER.-On the 6th of July 1896, at Locke, Ind., Sister Hannah, wife of K. H. Fisher, aged 71 years, 8 months and 29 days. She lived in matrimony over fifty-four years. She leaves a kind husband and nine children, twenty-four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was a devoted Christian and a member of the Mennonite church for over fifty years. Buried on the 8th at the Whitehead burial place. Services by J. Bleiley, J. Hygema and Noah Metzler. Text, Psalm 39:6, 7.

"At our loss we will not murmur,
Tho' it fills our hearts with pain;
Nature's ties are strong and tender,
But our loss is mother's gain."

HECKLER.-On the 13th of July, 1896, in Lower Salford Twp., Montgomery Co., Pa., Joseph Heckler, aged 88 years, 2 months and 13 days. Deceased had gone to the barn in the afternoon to do some light work. Shortly afterwards his daughter heard him cough in a strange manner and went out, when she found him standing in the entry, the blood flowing from mouth and nose. A moment later he sank down and soon became unconscious. Help was called for and he was carried into the house, where he expired a few minutes later. During a spell of coughing-the after effects of lagrippe-a blood vessel burst, from which he bled to death. His remains were buried on the 18th at the Lower Salford meeting house. Funeral services by Jacob S. Moyer and Henry S. Bower. Of 8 children, 5 survive. His wife died about 25 years ago.

SCHERTZ.-Catherine Engel was born on the 14th of March 1820 in France, came to America in her youth, was married to Christian Schertz on the 25th of July 1841, died June 19, 1896, aged 76 years, 3 months and 5 days. She leaves five sons and three daughters, twenty-seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren to mourn her death, yet not as those who have no hope. She was a faithful member of the Amish Mennonite church. Her remains were laid to rest in the Union graveyard on the 21st. Funeral services by Peter Sommer and Andrew Schrock in German, and by E. Hartman in English. J. S.

KAUFFMAN.-On the 4th of May 1896, near Allensville, Pa., of paralysis, Mary Detweiler, aged 72 years, 7 months and 13 days. She was born in Pennsylvania, and in 1843 was married to Joel Kauffman, who died about sixteen years ago. She was a member of the Amish Mennonite church. Deceased was highly esteemed by a large circle of relatives and friends. She leaves five sons and four daughters, twenty-four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. On the 6th the remains were laid to rest in the Amish cemetery near Allensville.

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

But we miss you, oh we miss you,
In our home we miss you here;
Yes we miss your coming footsteps,
And we miss you every where!"

BOWMAN.-Enoch Bowman was born on the 20th of October 1846 and died on the 9th of July 1896, aged 49 years, 8 months and 19 days. The deceased was cutting wheat, and for some cause his horses ran away, throwing him under the machine. Death must have been instantaneous, as his neck was broken. His sudden death is a loud call to all to prepare for death. He leaves a bereaved widow, seven children and three grandchildren, also an aged mother and many other relatives and friends to mourn his sudden death. Buried on the 11th in the Martin graveyard. Funeral services by Paul Martin and Joseph Gingerich. Text, Rom. 11:32. HIRAM WEBER.

HARTZLER.-On the 23rd of June 1896, near Lewistown, Logan Co., Ohio, of summer complaint, Freeman C., only son of Uriel and Rebecca Hartzler, aged 2 years, 8 months and 25 days. His sickness lasted but twelve days when death relieved the little sufferer. He exchanged a short life for an eternal one. Funeral services were conducted at the Philadelphia (Lutheran) church by U. J. Hadley. Text, 2 Samuel 12:23.

"Once we had a lovely blossom,
Opening with life's peep of day,
But the angels sent by Jesus
Came and carried it away.

Now the little form is resting
In the cold and silent grave,
And his spirit has ascended
To the blessed Lord who gave.

Now we miss him oh, so sadly,
Yet we hope in heaven to see
Our little treasure, and be united
Through a long eternity.
HIS AUNT N. B. H.

WISMER.-On the 13th of July, 1896, in Plumstead Twp., Bucks Co., Pa., of old age, Sarah, wife of E. L. Wismer, in her 89th year. Her maiden name was Shaddinger. She leaves three aged brothers aged 86, 90 and 92 years respectively.

CONRAD.-On the 2d of May 1896, near Louisville, Stark Co., Ohio, Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Conrad, aged 33 years, 9 months and 4 days. Buried on the 4th. Funeral services by D. Z. Yoder, assisted by M. Slonecker.

HOUSEHALTER.-Maria Zehr was born on the 25th of September 1816, in Lorraine, France, was married on the 8th of May 1838, to Theobald Househalter. The union was blessed with eleven children, of whom eight survive, also fifty-six grandchildren, and twenty-two great-grandchildren, who with many other relatives and friends mourn their loss. She died on the 28th of June 1896, near Eureka, Woodford Co., Ill., and her remains were laid away on the 30th in the Roanoke graveyard. Appropriate services were held by Valentine Strubhar at the house and by Michael Kinsinger, Emanuel Hartman and John Schmitt at the meeting house. She was a faithful member of the Amish branch of our church and bore her afflictions with fortitude, longing for her release.

HARTMAN.-On the 4th of May, 1896, in Locke Twp., Elkhart Co., Ind., Rosa Arvilla, daughter of Peter S. and Anna Hartman, aged 3 years, 5 months and 6 days. Buried on the 6th at the North Union church.

"Dear Rosa Arvilla, since thou art gone,
We miss thee from thy place,
Thy place is vacant in our home,
We miss the smiling of thy face."

Little Rosa Arvilla was too fair,
In this cold world to stay;
So God in mercy called her home
To dwell in endless day."

WELDY.-On the 22d of April, 1896, in Wakarusa, Elkhart Co., Ind., Martha Jane, daughter of Jacob and Hannah Weldy, aged 12 years, 1 month and 7 days. Buried on the 25th at the North Union church.

The funeral sermon of the above children was postponed to a more convenient time on account of the children of both families being sick, and unable to attend the burial services. And as the children were cousins, it was thought best to hold the services together, which was done on Sunday, July 5th, at the North Union church, where a large concourse of relatives and neighbors had met in memory of the children and in sympathy to the parents. Appropriate remarks were made by Amos Mumaw and Jonas Loucks, from 2 Cor. 4:17. May God bless the bereaved parents in their affliction, that it may work in them a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

LANDIS.-On the 12th of July, 1896, while attending meeting at Trappe, Upper Providence Twp., Montgomery Co., Pa., suddenly of heart disease, Isaac Landis, aged 84 years. Buried on the 16th at the Lower Salford meeting house. Two children, a son and daughter, survive him.

SHEFFER.-On the 26th of June, near Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, Sarah Sheffer, aged 64 years, 4 months and 25 days. She was a consistent member of the Mennonite church, and a kind and affectionate mother. Her loss is deeply felt by her two beloved daughters, especially the youngest, with whom she had been living, yet we hope their loss is her eternal gain. We also hope that this may be the means of bringing her family and friends in a nearer relationship with their Master, to prepare to meet their God. She was buried on the 28th, in the Roland cemetery at Canton. Services were conducted by David Hostetler of Wayne Co., and by J. R. Keyler of Canton. Peace to her ashes.

Transcribed by Carolyn Hunnicutt, Indiana

UP


Herald of Truth, Vol. XXXIII, No. 16, August 15, 1896, page 254, 255

BISH. PETER LEHMAN
was born on the 16th of July 1829, in Harperich, Canton Grosztennchen, Alsace Lorraine, Europe. On the 15th of February 1852, he emigrated to America and founded a peaceful home here, where he spent the remainder of his days. On the 23d of November 1858, he was united in matrimony with Catharine Lehman (nee Widrich). The union was blessed with ten children, all of whom survive him, together with fifteen grandchildren. One grandchild preceded him 12 years and 4 months ago. He labored faithfully in the ministry of God's word for about twenty-eight years in our Amish congregation in Lewis Co., N. Y., and 8 years and 7 months as bishop. His death was caused by asthma and occurred at 6 o'clock on the morning of the 14th of July 1896. His remains were laid in their last earthly resting place followed by a sorrowing family and congregation, whom he had for many years served as a faithful and loving natural and spiritual father. May God comfort the bereft hearts.
CHRISTIAN LEHMAN.

BENDER.-On the 1st of August 1896, at the residence of J. E. Schwarzendruber, near Amish, Johnson Co., Iowa, of heart disease, sister Catharine Bender, widow of the late Bro. Christian Bender of Lyon Co., Kansas, aged 65 years, 17 days. Her maiden name was Jutzi, and she formerly lived in Somerset Co., Pa. She was an example of patience and resignation in her long period of suffering. Buried on the 3d. Funeral services by John Gunden and Jos. Guengerich from Rev. 7.

KAUFFMAN.-July 11th 1896, near Sporting Hill, Lancaster Co., Pa., Bro. John Kauffman, aged 76 years, 6 months and 4 days. Funeral on the 14th. Text, Isa. 40:6-8. Buried at Sporting Hill cemetery. Three weeks before he died he yielded to the grace of God. May the good Lord comfort his bereft family.

MILLER.-Near Morrison, Ill., on July 28th 1896, Edna Melvina, infant daughter of Emil and Sarah (Steiner) Miller, aged 1 month and 18 days. Buried July 29th at the Mennonite church in Ustick. Funeral services by John Nice from Jer. 31:15-17.

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

Edna is another jewel to adorn the Savior's brow.

BETZNER.-William Benjamin Betzner, son of David and Catharine Betzner, was born at Berlin, Ontario, Nov. 3d 1873, and died at Van Buren, Ind., Aug. 4th 1896, aged 22 years, 9 months and 1 day. Bro. Benjamin was the youngest of a family of seven sons, and the first that death has called from the family circle. In February 1891 he professed faith in Christ as his Savior and Redeemer, and died with the blessed assurance that he was at peace with God and would enter and enjoy the heavenly home of the happy redeemed, and we hope to meet in heaven our son and brother who was so early in life called from our midst. The remains were laid to rest on the 6th, followed by the sorrowing family and many friends. Funeral services by J. S. Coffman and J. B. Hall.

FRANK.-July 21, 1896, in Columbia, Lancaster Co., Pa., of spasms, Alice Irene, youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. C. G. Frank, aged 11 months and 13 days. Funeral on the 23d. Text, Isa. 11:6. Buried in the Columbia cemetery.

LANDIS.-July 27th 1896, at Palmyra, Lebanon Co., Pa., of injuries sustained by falling off a wagon, Jacob S. Landis, aged 32 years, 1 month and 3 days. Funeral on the 30th. Text, Amos 4:12. Buried at the Derry Brethren M. H. A sorrowing widow and four little daughters followed him to the grave. A large and sympathizing congregation assembled in token of respect for the deceased. May the good Lord sanctify the deep affliction to the family and friends.

MURRAY.-At his late residence near Edgely, Ontario, on the 11th of July, 1896, David Murray passed away in his 81st year. Deceased was afflicted four years with a nerve disease, and although he suffered severely at times, he bore it patiently, thanking God that it was not worse. At times he thought he could not leave us, but then he would say "Of what use am I? I am only living on borrowed time." He leaves an aged widow over 70, to mourn his loss. Deceased was born in Turkeyfoot Twp., Somerset Co., P., on January 25th, 1815. In his boyhood days he emigrated with his parents to Canada, coming by the way of Erie to Black Rock, where they crossed the river Niagara. They first settled on the lake shore, this side of Grimsby, but not being satisfied they came to Toronto, then coming north they settled near Emery, York Twp. The trip from Pennsylvania was made on horseback, David and his brother Isaac (deceased) were carried in a canvas pouch thrown across the horse's back on which their father rode, one on each side, while his sister, Mrs. S. Limes, was carried on another horse with her mother. In 1846, Mr. Murray was joined in wedlock to Miss Latimer. Their union was blessed with two sons and two daughters, and twenty-three grandchildren of whom three are dead. In 1861 Mr. Murray and wife were received into the Lutheran church by Pre. J. Fishburn. During his late years he never missed a service, if not prevented by illness. He also was a principal founder and supporter of a church, bearing his name, Murray Chapel, and made provisions for future support by bequeathing one hundred dollars a year for ten years, to be paid by the owner of his real estate. He also leaves a sister aged 79. He lived in matrimony 50 years and 5 months. He was a reader of the HERALD OF TRUTH from the beginning of its publication as near as we can recollect. He was well versed in the Bible. The last sad rites were preformed on Sunday the 12th of July by his pastor, Pre. J. A. Dunlap, who took for his text the 6th, 7th and 8th verses of the 4th chapter of 2 Timothy. The passages were selected by the deceased, and also these hymns:

"There is a house not made with hands,
Eternal in the heavens;
And here my spirit waiting stands,
Till God shall bid it fly."
and
"One sweetly solemn thought,
Comes to me o'er and o'er;
I'm nearer to my home to-day,
Than e'er I've been before."

His remains were followed by the largest concourse of people ever known in this vicinity to the Mennonite cemetery where he was laid to rest beside his father and mother-in-law. We hope and pray that his light has so shone that many may be brought to the fold, and that we may not forget his dying words, spoken to his wife, sons, daughters and grandchildren, as long as God permits us to live, for we know he is not dead but sleepeth.

"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.

God in his wisdom has recalled
The boon His love has given,
And though the body moulder here,
His soul is safe in heaven."
A GRAND-DAUGHTER.

HAVERSTICK.-On the 26th of July 1896, near Mount Joy, Rapho Twp., Lancaster Co., Pa., of blood poisoning, Bro. Levi Haverstick, son of Levi Haverstick of Manor Twp., Lancaster Co., Pa., aged 45 years, 10 months and 6 days. After a lingering illness for over two weeks he was taken away from his beloved wife and family. We extend our sympathy in their behalf. He endured his sufferings very patiently. About a quarter of a century ago he experienced the joy of forgiveness and adoption into the family of God and he lived an exemplary life. We believe that the dear brother rejoiced that he was counted worthy to suffer with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A few days previous to his death there seemed to be some hope of his recovery, but our hopes proved to be in vain, but we have a hope, a confidence that his soul is enjoying a blessed peace and perfection in the regions of eternal glory. The remains were interred at Habecker's M. H. on Wednesday the 29th in the presence of an unusually large congregation. Services were conducted by Jacob N. Brubacher and Abraham Whitmer. Texts: Phil 1:21 and 1 Thess. 4:13-18.

Weep not for me, beloved Annie,
The Lord has not taken more than He has given;
The time will be short, you must toil here below,
When the Master will call you to the heavens with me.

HERSCHBERGER.-On the 21st of July 1896, near Amish, Johnson Co., Pa., after suffering for 24 hours of inflammation of the bowels, Bro. Daniel, eldest son of Emanuel and Lydia Herschberger, aged 30 years, 8 months and 26 days. His remains were laid to rest on the 23d. Funeral services by J. F. Schwarzendruber and Peter Kinsinger. Deceased leaves a deeply bereaved widow, parents, brothers and sisters.

MELLINGER.-July 15th, 1896, in Pequea Twp., Lancaster Co., Pa., Anna M., wife of Benjamin G. Mellinger in the 44th year of her age. She leaves a husband and eight children to mourn their loss, but they need not mourn as those who have no hope. She was a faithful member of the Mennonite church. Funeral was held on the 17th at the Millersville church where services were conducted by John B. Harnish in German and Abram B. Herr and Benj. H. Hertzler in English. Text, Phil 1:21-23 and Rev. 14:13.

HUVER.-July 17th, 1896, in Lancaster Co., Pa., Michael L. Huver, aged 76 years, 9 months and 28 days. Funeral on the 20th at the Stone M. H., where services were conducted by Abram B. Herr and Benj. H. Hertzler. Texts, John 11:25, 26 and Matt. 24:44. He was sick but a few days and will be greatly missed in the family and also in the neighborhood in which he lived, as he was a kind and good neighbor, but we hope he may have found rest.

HERR.-On the 20th of July, 1896, in Pequea Township, Lancaster Co., Pa., very suddenly, Lizzie B. Herr, aged 60 years, 4 months and 9 days. She had been complaining for a few days, but it was thought to be nothing serious and she went to her room as usual in the evening. As she did not come for breakfast next morning she was looked after and found sitting in her chair, dead. Funeral on the 22d at the Stone M. H., where services were conducted by Abram B. Herr and Benj. H. Hertzler. Texts, 1 Tim. 1:15 and Prov. 27:1. L. G. H.

SMUCKER.-On the 23d of June 1896, in Wayne Twp., Wayne Co., Ohio, Bro. David Smucker, aged 59 years, 3 months and 7 days. Bro. Smucker was engaged in unloading hay in the barn with a large hay fork or hook, when the pulley, which was fastened to a rafter, tore loose and the hook fell on the side of Bro. Smucker's head throwing him off the wagon so that he fell on the back part of his head sustaining a worse fracture of the skull perhaps that that occasioned by the falling hook. This double blow rendered him unconscious. He was carried to the house and medical aid was at once summoned, but he never regained consciousness, and died a few hours afterwards. Bro. Smucker was born in Green Twp., Wayne Co., Ohio, March 16th 1837, and moved to his late residence about two years ago. His remains were laid to rest on the 25th in the Oak Grove graveyard, where about one thousand relatives and friends assembled to witness the last sad rites, and to mingle the tears of sorrow and of sympathy. He leaves his sorrowing companion, five daughters, one son and thirteen grandchildren to mourn their sad and sudden loss. Four children and three grandchildren preceded him. In his death the wife loses a kind husband, the children a good and loving father, the community a helpful and honest neighbor, the church a sincere, devoted member. He will be greatly missed by the family, the neighborhood, and also by the church and Sunday school, as he was a faithful, earnest Christian worker in the Amish church. Funeral services were conducted by Benj. Gerig, David Z. Yoder and David Garber. It is a crushing blow to the wife, son and daughters, neighbor and friends to find him so suddenly removed, but it was God's will, and his friends need not mourn as those who have no hope, but can be assured that he is now resting in the place where his soul often longed to be, free from all trouble. May the rich grace and true love of God comfort the sorrowing ones who have been so deeply wounded by this sudden death.

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

Now we miss him, oh we miss him,
When we see his vacant chair!
And how sad the room without him, -
For there is no father there.

Father's work on earth is ended,
Faithfully the cross he bore;
Now his loving soul's ascended
Over to fair Canaan's shore.

A sudden change-he in a moment fell;
He had no time to bid his friends farewell;
Think this not strange-death happens to us all!
This day was his, to-morrow you may fall. J. Z.

SHELLY.-On the 24th of July, 1896, in Elkhart, Elkhart Co., Ind., of injuries received from a fractious colt, Bro. Michael Shelly, aged 59 years, 4 months and 3 days. He was unhitching the colt from a cart in which he had been out driving, when the colt suddenly became unmanageable and threw Bro. Shelly to the ground. He was hurt in the throat or larynx, so as to produce emphysema. He seemed to be getting better but the disease took an unfavorable turn and he died unexpectedly on the evening of the fifth day after being injured. He leaves a sorrowing widow and four children to mourn his death. He was born near Quakertown, Bucks Co., Pa., and came west some 40 years ago. He had been engaged in teaming for the Lake Shore Railway Company about 15 years. He was buried on the 27th. Services were held at the Mennonite church in Elkhart, by John F. Funk, assisted by J. S. Coffman and J. S. Lehman. The high esteem with which all regarded him was manifested by the large attendance at his funeral.

WEBER.-On the 20th of July 1896, near Maugansville, Md., of gangrene, sister Catharine Weber, aged 32 years and 21 days. She was confined to her chair for sixteen months, and her sufferings were almost beyond description, yet she bore them patiently unto the end. She was buried at Reiff's Mennonite M. H. Services by Pre. George Keener and Bish. Michael Horst.
I. W. EBY.

MOYER.-On the 9th of July 1986, at his residence in Berlin, Ontario, after a long period of severe suffering from rheumatism, Peter E. W. Moyer, aged 69 years, 9 months and 6 days. He was born in Preston, Ont., on the 3d of October 1836, his parents, Bro. William and sister Mary (Erb) Moyer, having settled there. He began to teach school when only 15 years old, teaching in winter and working on his father's farm in summer for five years. He made a profession of religion at the age of twenty and united with the Methodist denomination, in which he was afterwards ordained to the ministry and followed this calling for three years. He was a graduate of Victoria University, and after leaving the ministerial field he entered the journalistic field, first acting as correspondent of a number of religious and secular journals in Canada and the United States. From 1866 to 1870 he published the Waterloo Chronicle, during which time he wrote and published an excellent history of the early settlement of Waterloo county, in which many interesting sketches of the early emigration of our Mennonite people have been preserved and used by other writers in subsequent works of the same kind. From here he went to St. Catharines, Ont., where he published a daily for eight years. Returning to Waterloo Co., he began the publication of the Daily and Weekly News at Berlin, which he continued up to the time of his death. In 1868 he was married to the eldest daughter of William Ardagh. This union was blest with nine children, all of whom survive. He was buried on the 11th in the Mennonite graveyard in Berlin. The funeral was largely attended. Besides his wife and family he leaves an aged mother, brothers and sisters, and many other relatives and friends.

EVANS.-Bro John H. Evans was born in South Cayuga, Ont., Oct. 22d 1866, was received into the church in the year 1893. His chief aim was to get more and better acquainted with God's holy word. He was always willing to be obedient to the teachings of Christ and His church. He was not only interested in his own soul's salvation but also in the welfare of others, especially so in the welfare of his father and mother, brothers and sister. His evidence of piety and trust in the Lord Jesus we believe helped him when the hour of trial came, for he expressed himself as fully trusting in the Lord. He died of an abscess of the bowels. He was sick nine days when death relieved him of the greatest of pain. He died July 21st 1896, aged 29 years, 8 months and 29 days. He leaves a wife, one son, parents, three brothers and one sister. They need not mourn as those who have no hope. Buried in the Mennonite burying ground at South Cayuga on the 23d. Services by the brethren Moses Hoover and Noah Stauffer from 2 Cor. 5 and Phil. 1:21. The funeral was largely attended.

BIXEL.-On the 26th of July 1896, near Bluffton, Ohio, Roy J., son of Christian and Lena Bixel, of cholera infantum, aged 2 years, 4 months and 5 days. Services by Pre. J. B. Bear assisted by the brethren Isaac Burkhart and Jacob Horning. Roy was a bright, loving child. The Lord comfort our dear brother and sister in the hour of their affliction.

HOWARD.-At Roxbury, Pa., Sadie Howard, wife of Stephen Howard, and daughter of Bro. John and sister Annie Gindlesperger, died May 11th 1896, aged 21 years, 1 month and 27 days. Buried in the Berkley graveyard. Funeral sermon was preached by Albert Berkley of the Dunkard church in English and Bish. Jonas Blough in German. She leaves a husband, an infant son, her father and three brothers to mourn their loss. Her mother, one brother and two sisters preceded her to the spirit world within seven years. She had been taken into the Dunkard church by the ordinance of baptism a few days before she died after which she claimed she had peace with her Lord and Savior and desired to die. We hope she is now enjoying everlasting happiness with those that had gone before. She was followed by her infant son, John Henry Howard, July 9th, 1896, aged 1 years and 6 days. He died of cholera infantum. The following are the ones that preceded her: .-Lizzie died Sept. 17th 1889, aged 18 years, 1 month and 21 days, single; Henry died Dec. 30th 1892, aged 35 years, 5 months and 18 days. He left a wife and three children to mourn his loss. Annie Gindlesperger, the mother, died Jan. 31st 1893, aged 58 years, 4 months and 12 days. She left a husband, two daughters and three sons to mourn their loss. Lucinda, wife of Albert Fisher, died Feb. 18th 1896, aged 28 years, 2 months and 6 days. She left a husband and two children to mourn her loss. Two of her children preceded her to the spirit world.

Transcriber's note: There are two obituaries in the above notice, Sadie Howard and her son, John Henry Howard and also other family members who died before her.

Transcribed by Carolyn Hunnicutt, Indiana


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