Amstutz.-Rosina Amstutz was born Feb. 29, 1920: died Oct. 25, 1939; aged 19 y. 7 m. 28 d. She leaves her father and mother, 7 sisters and 3 brothers: Katherine (Mrs. David Neuenschwander), Lena (Mrs. Carl Norr), Anna (Mrs. Emanuel Miller), Levi, Rachel (Mrs. A. L. Lehman), Bertha (Mrs. Gilbert Franks), Martha, Noah, Edna, and Freddie at home. Sixteen nieces and nephews, one grandmother (Katherina Amstutz), and many relatives and friends also survive. One sister (Sarah) preceded her in death. Funeral services were held in the home, conducted by Bro. Peter M. Neuenschwander, assisted by Bro. Louis Amstutz of Apple Creek, O. Text, Jas. 4:14. Interment in Neuenschwander Cemetery.
Short.-Mary Ann, daughter of Gotleib and Anna Beck,
was born near Archbold, Ohio, Feb. 5, 1874; died Oct. 18, 1939,
in her home near Stryker, Ohio; aged 65 y. 8 m. 13 d. On Dec.
6, 1892, she was united in marriage with Jonas S. Short. To this
union were born 8 children: Dan L., Sylvanus, Mabel (Mrs. Joe
Wyse), Monroe, Anna (Mrs. Jesse Wyse), Freeman, Virgil, and Zelma,
who died at the age of seven months. In her early years she accepted
Christ as her personal Saviour and united with the A. Mennonite
Church; remaining faithful to the end, always praying for the
welfare of her family and Church. She will be greatly missed in
the home and by all who knew her. She was an active teacher in
Sunday school for over 35 years, and served as secretary and treasurer
of the sewing circle for a number of years, always doing her part
faithfully. One daughter, 2 granddaughters, her parents, 3 sisters
and 5 brothers preceded her in death. She leaves her deeply bereaved
husband, 2 daughters, 5 sons, 25 grandchildren, 3 brothers (Jacob,
Joel, and Henry), and a host of relatives and friends. Funeral
services were held at the Lockport Church conducted by Bro. P.
L. Frey and Bro. Walter Stuckey. Text, Heb. 4:9. Interment in
Lockport Cemetery.
"Deep in our heart lies a picture
Of a loved one laid to rest;
In memory's frame we will keep it,
Because she was one of the best.
Friends may think we have forgotten,
When at times they see us smile;
But they little know the heart-aches,
That the smile hides all the while."
Freed.-Enos H. Freed, seventy-seven years old, died suddenly at the home of his son-in-law and daughter Mr. and Mrs. Henry Landis, at Harleysville, Pa., on Saturday evening, Sept. 30, 1939. He suffered a stroke that morning and died the same evening. He was deacon of the Towamencin Mennonite Church for 13 years. He was retired at the time of his death but he formerly operated a farm in Towamencin Township. His wife preceded him in death eleven years ago. The following children survive: Elwood, Raymond, and Flora (wife of Henry Landis) of Harleysville, Katie (wife of Howard Detwiler) of Lansdale, William of Telford, Sallie (wife of Wilson Allebach) of Kulpsville, Jonas of Elroy, and Emma (wife of Elwood Kolb) of Earlington; also 4 sisters (Mrs. Peter Wile, Mrs. Henry Nice, Mrs. Henry Detwiler. Mrs. Howard Booz), a half sister (Miss Mamie Freed), 41 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren survive. Funeral was held Oct. 5 at Towamencin Church. Services in charge of Warren Moyer, Wm. Anders, and Isaac Kulp. Buried in adjoining cemetery. By the children.
Sommer.-Mildred Anna, only daughter of Joseph D. and
Anna Litwiller Sommer, was born in Metamora, Ill., Aug. 11, 1914;
died at her home Nov. 13, 1939; aged 25 y. 3 m. 2 d. Having been
an invalid most of her life, she was never able to enjoy the privileges
of childhood and youth; but in spite of her physical disabilities,
she bore her suffering in silence and always with a smile. She
will be greatly missed in the home and by those to whom she was
so closely attached. She is survived by her parents and 1 brother
(Gerald). She was preceded in death by her grandparents and 1
brother (Kenneth) who died Dec. 6, 1928.
"The short rough road is ended,
Her weary feet have pressed;
How rough to her weak footsteps
Perhaps we never guessed.
But with the weary journey
She'll be no more distressed,
Now o'er life's pathway she has come
At last unto her heavenly home."
Funeral services in charge of Bro. H. R. Schertz assisted by Bro.
C. A. Hartzler of Tiskilwa, Ill.
Martin.-Amelia, daughter of the late Andrew and Whilamenia
Bergman, was born April 14, 1872, died Oct. 3, 1939; aged 67 y.
5 m. 19 d. She was a member of the Landis Valley Mennonite Church.
She was united in marriage to Esrom Martin who survives her. To
this union were born 13 children of whom 6 survive; also 22 grandchildren.
Mother passed from this earth very suddenly. The family feels
a great loss, as her greatest desire in life was to serve her
family well. She hoped that God would spare her life until her
children were grown and started homes of their own. God granted
her this wish. The funeral service was held at the Landis Valley
Mennonite Church. The services at the church were conducted by
Bros. Ira D. Landis and Amos Horst. Text, Psa. 17:15; Prov. 31:29.
Brief services at the house were conducted by Bro. Noah Landis.
Our Mother's walk in life left with us the consoling thought that
we need not to weep as those who have no hope.
"Mother, dear, your cares are over,
On this earth you've done your best;
That you've gone we scarcely realize,
Rest, dear Mother, rest, sweet rest."
By the Family.
Transcribed by Nancy Regan, Washington
Sheeley.--Catherine E., wife of Abraham Sheeley was
born in Washington Co., Md., Dec. 19, 1845; died at her home near
Smithsburg, Md., Nov. 18, 1939; aged 93 y. 10 m. 29 d. She united
with the Mennonite Church 41 years ago and remained a faithful
member until death. She is survived by 2 sons (Luther and George).
Funeral services were held at Stouffer's Mennonite Church conducted
by Brethren Amos Martin and Denton Martin.
"All is over, hands are folded,
On a quiet, peaceful breast;
All is over, life is ended,
Our dear Mother is at rest."
-By a Son.
Rutt.-Anna, daughter of the late Jacob and Cathrine (Longenecker) Rutt, was born April 28, 1881; died at her home in Elizabethtown, Pa., Nov. 10, 1939; aged 58 y. 6 m. 12 d. She is survived by 2 sisters (Mary, wife of J. Clayton Charles of Lancaster; Ida L. Rutt) and 4 brothers (John, Albert, Norman of Elizabethtown and Jacob L. Rutt a missionary in Argentina, S. A.). She united with the Mennonite Church in her youth and remained faithful until death. Funeral services were held Nov. 13 from her late home and at the Elizabethtown Mennonite Church by Bros. Noah Risser and Clarence Lutz. Texts, II Cor. 5:1-9; Heb. 13:14. Interment in the Bossler Cemetery.
"Peacefully sleeping, resting at last,
The world's weary troubles and trials are past;
In silence she suffered, in patience she bore,
'Til God called her home to suffer no more."
Cullar.-Jonas, son of Isaac and Barbara Cullar, was born in Mahoning Co., Ohio, Oct. 1, l863; died at the home of his son John near North Lima, Ohio, Nov. 30, 1939; aged 76 y. 1 m. 19 d. About 50 years ago he accepted Christ and became a member of the Mennonite church in Mahoning Co., where he remained a faithful member until death. On Oct. 23, 1890, he was united in marriage to Rebecca Lehman. To this union were born 2 sons (Elmer of Columbiana, O., and John of North Lima, O.). Besides his 2 sons he is survived by 5 grandchildren. His companion, 1 brother (Noah), and 1 grandchild preceded him in death. His son Elmer was not able to be present at the funeral because of illness following an accident. Since his companion passed away just ten months ago, Bro. Cullar has been especially homesick for heaven, and frequently expressed himself as being anxious to go home. Funeral services were held at the Midway Mennonite Church in charge of Brethren Paul Yoder and David Steiner. Burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Bowman.--Elizabeth Kreider Bowman, was born Feb. 11,
1877; died Nov. 8, 1939, at her home in Lancaster. She was the
widow of Isaac Bowman who died 15 years ago. Aunt Lizzie was sick
about six months. She died very peacefully. During her illness
she was never heard to complain, but seemed fully resigned to
the Lord's will. Aunt Lizzie had a lot of company during her illness
and was always so happy and always had a smile when her friends
came to visit her. She was a member of the Mennonite Church for
many years. She is survived by a brother (Harry D. Kreider of
Witmer), and a sister (Mrs. Susan E. Kreider of Paradise), also
nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Nov. 11, from the
home in charge of Bro. Parke Book, and at the East Chestnut Street
Mennonite Church by Bro. Stoner Krady. Text, Mark 14:8. Burial
in Hershey's Mennonite Cemetery.
"'Tis hard to part with Lizzie dear,
No more to see her here;
But yet we're glad if God saw best,
To end her troubles and give her rest;
In heaven to reign with angels fair,
May our names too be written there."
Schrag.-Christian, youngest son of the late Christian and Veronica Schrag, was born near Shakespeare, Ont., Jan. 8, 1876; died Nov. 6, 1939, after a lengthy illness, being bedfast the last 15 months; aged 63 y. 9 m. 28 d. On Dec. 23, 1902, he was united in marriage to Mary, daughter of the late Jacob and Marie Gingerich. In 1909 he was ordained a deacon in the Mennonite church at Zurich, Ont. Two years later he was called to the ministry at the same place, in which capacity he faithfully served until the Lord called him to his eternal reward. Surviving are his companion, 6 children (Ruth, wife of Pre. S. M. Peachy, Pre. Gordan, Stouffville, Ont.; William of Zurich, Ont.; Allan of Kingston, Ont.; Lewis and Ruby at home); also 8 grandchildren, 1 brother (Daniel of Leonardville, N. Y), and 1 sister (Mrs. Christian Baechler), and a wide circle of friends. One sister (Mrs. Peter Roth) predeceased him. Funeral services were held Nov. 9 from the home to the Zurich Mennonite Church, where a large congregation of friends had gathered. The following Bishops had part in the service: M. Hallman, O. D. Snider, M. H. Roth. Interment in Zurich Cemetery.
Embleton.-In Greenwood, Del., on the morning of Oct. 24, a baby girl was born in the home of John and Martha (Miller) Embleton, gladdening the hearts of three brothers and three sisters. She was named Bertha Dolores; a very sweet and healthy child, endearing herself to all who saw her. She took a cold which developed into pneumonia. On Nov. 21, a little more than a week after she took sick, God called her. God needed one more bud in His angel band so reaching down He clasped our darling's hand. She was preceded in death by her Grandmother Miller and Grandfather Embleton, and some other relatives. Little Bertha was the first to break the immediate family circle. She leaves her sorrowing father and mother, and the following brothers and sisters: Pauline, Dorothy, Jay, Thelma, Manford, and Merle, all at home. Services were conducted in the Greenwood A. M. Church by Bros. Eli Swartzentruber, Nevin Bender, and Noah Swartzentruber. Texts, Luke 18:16; Psa. 27:14; Gen. 18:14. Interment in the adjoining cemetery.
"Dear little hands, I miss them so,
All thro' the day wherever I go;
All thro' the night how lonely it seems,
For no little hands wake me out of my dreams."
Witmer.-Lillie (Wenger), wife of Eli Witmer of Soudersburg, Pa., was born Dec. 22, 1865; died Nov. 30, 1939; aged 73 y. 11 m. 8 d. She was a member of the Mennonite Church of Paradise. Besides her husband, she is survived by the following children: Samuel W. Witmer of Goshen, Ind.; Anna, wife of Parke Brackbill, Lincoln Highway East; Ada, wife of Samuel A. Shank, Dayton, Va.; Ella, wife of Emanuel C. Neff, Ronks; Esther, wife of J. Ellis Landis, Bird-in-Hand; Enos W., Lincoln Highway East; Eva, wife of Paul G. Martin, Bridgeport, Pa.; Caleb W., of Soudersburg, Pa. Four sisters (Mrs. Mary Greeninger, Denver, Pa.; Mrs. Annie Witmer, Brownstown; Mrs. Amanda Hershey, Lancaster; Mrs. Hettie Weber, Ephrata), and a brother (Minister Benjamin G. Wenger, Ephrata), also 28 grandchildren, survive. Funeral services were conducted by Bros. Ira Hershey and Parke Book on Dec. 3, at Paradise Mennonite Church. Burial in adjoining cemetery.
"Dear mother is sweetly resting
From her labors, and her works do follow her,
Without any longer toiling and wrestling,
For her blessings by her Saviour are transferred."
By the family.
Hamilton-Vernon Franklin, son of Charles E. and Minnie (Snyder) Hamilton, was born May 5, 1902, at Alpha, Minn.; died Oct. 30, 1939, at his home near Willamina, Oreg.; aged 37 y. 5 m. 25 d. His death, although sudden and unexpected, followed approximately two years of failing health due to heart trouble. He was confined to his bed for nearly two months, but had been able to be up and exercise lightly about one month just previous to death. He accepted Christ as his Saviour at an early age, uniting with the Mennonite Church at the Hopewell congregation, near Hubbard, Oreg. Later he moved with his parents to Airlie, Oreg., then to Sheridan, remaining a member of the church at each place. He was preceded in death by 1 brother who died in infancy and leaves his sorrowing parents, 2 brothers (Walter and Eldon, both of Willamina), 2 sisters (Mrs. Edward Hostetler of Bloomfield, Mont., and Mrs. Louis Mishler of Willamina) and many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held Nov. 2 in the Mennonite Church at Sheridan, Oreg., conducted by Bro. G. D. Shenk, assisted by Bro. Amos Kilmer. The sermon consisted largely of different scripture verses found marked in his Bible. Interment in the Harmony Cemetery near Sheridan.
"The call was sudden, the shock severe,
We little thought that his end was near;
And only those who have lost can tell
The loss of a loved one without farewell."
Fancher.-Anna Pauline Shellenbarger was born in Ohio,
May 26, 1853; died at her home in Galesburg, Mo., Dec. 1, 1939;
aged 86 y. 6 m. 4 d. She was married to Jacob Fancher Nov. 27,
1870. To this union 5 children were born. Two sons and 1 daughter
died in childhood. She is survived by 2 sons (John, of Wier, Kans.,
and Oliver, of Coeur-d-Alene, Idaho). Her husband died about thirty-one
years ago. She leaves 4 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren,
also 2 sisters (Mrs. Mary Miller, who shared her home; Mrs. Lillie
Worick, Bixby, Okla.), and 1 brother (John Shellenbarger, of Central
Point, Oreg.). For about fifty-six years she had lived in her
little home in Galesburg; and for the last thirty years she has
been a member of the Mennonite Church, a faithful member of the
White Hall congregation. She never seemed to grow old, but was
active to the last. Truly her watchword was, Others; she was always
being helpful and died with some unfinished plans for others.
As we stood by the casket and saw the cold, silent hands we thought
of the many stitches they had taken that others might not lack.
Death came suddenly, in an early morning hour, as she sat in her
chair, with only a little warning of the failing heart. The funeral
was held at White Hall Church on Sunday afternoon, conducted by
Bro. Earl Showalter, of Colorado, and Bro. Wm. Tweedy of the home
congregation. Burial in Weaver Cemetery.
How much she was loved,
only we who must lose her know;
but she has gone to the glory world
to join the loved ones she so sorely missed.
Heaven becomes dearer to us as it claims more of our treasures.
--- Myrtle Shenk.
Transcribed by Nancy Regan, Washington
Bodkins.----Benjamin T. Bodkins was born Dec. 28, 1875; died at his home near Dry Fork, W. Va., Dec. 2, 1939; aged 63 y. 11 m. 4 d. Bro. Bodkins united with the church years ago, but for some reason did not keep his church fellowship as we would have liked to see. In his affliction he asked to renew his fellowship and expressed his peace and trust in his Saviour and said he was ready to depart. He is survived by his wife, 4 sons, and 3 daughters. Funeral services were conducted Dec. 5 from the Riverside Mennonite Church by Bro. Amos D. Heatwole. Texts, Eccl. 3 :2; Heb. 9 :27.
Leasure.-Melvin Ray, son of Arthur E.. and Sara Brilhart Leasure, Scottdale, Pa., was born Aug. 2, 1931; died Dec. 9, 1939; aged 8 y. 4 m. 7 d. After but a few days' illness he died of toxic poisoning as a result of an attack of glandular fever. He is survived by his parents, 2 brothers, and 3 sisters. He was a faithful attendant of the Scottdale Mennonite Sunday School, and in moments of delirium he recited and sang his parts of the coming Christmas program. He will he greatly missed in the home and Sunday school and among friends. Services were held at the home and at the Scottdale Mennonite Church on Dec. 11, with the home ministers in charge. Interment in Scottdale Cemetery.
Bergey.-Larry Gene, son of Lester and Edna (Gehman)
Bergey of Elroy, Pa., was born Nov. 19, 1939; died the same day
at the Elm Terrace Hospital at Lansdale, Pa. Although everything
was done for the child, we feel it was God's will that the little
flower budded on earth, but to bloom more fair in heaven. Services
Nov. 21 at Rockhill Mennonite Cemetery. Surviving, in addition
to the parents, are the maternal grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. A.
Lincoln Gehman of Sellersville) and the paternal grandparents
(Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bergey of Elroy).
"Only a baby's life-
Brief as a perfumed kiss;
So fleet it goes, but our Father knows,
We are nearer to Him for this."
-Sadly missed by the parents.
Landis.-Hettie G., daughter of John S. and the late
Fannie (Gamber) Heller, was born in Lancaster Co., Pa., Oct. 4,
1884; died Nov. 25, 1939, after several months' illness. On Nov.
7, 1906, she was married to John L. Landis. She was a faithful
member of the Mennonite Church from her girlhood and was of a
kindly disposition and won many friends. She is survived by her
loving husband, aged father, and 4 sisters. Funeral services were
held Nov. 28 at the home by Bro. D. N. Gish, and at the Millersville
Mennonite Church by Bros. Jacob Hess and Christian K. Lehman.
Text, Rev. 21 :4. Interment in the adjoining cemetery.
"To a richer world than ours,
Clearer sight and wider powers;
To a life that knows no scorn,
She has gone for whom we mourn."
Kaufman.-Elsie Drange Kaufman was born in Chicago, July 2, 1886; died Nov. 13, 1939, aged 53 y. 4 m. 11 d. When still quite young she accepted Christ as her Saviour and united with the Mennonite Church of which she was a faithful member until her death. She was one of the first converts of the Mennonite Home Mission, Chicago. She served as a missionary to India, including furloughs, from 1908 until 1935. The day before New Year's Day of 1936 she suffered a stroke which left her an invalid. She did not have long to wait after her third stroke on the morning of Nov. 13, 1939, for she peacefully fell asleep in Jesus the same evening. In 1909 she was united in marriage to Bro. J. N. Kaufman who survives her. She is also survived by her 3 children (Russell, Paul, and Kathryn). and by her 2 grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted in the Pleasant Hill Mennonite Church near Peoria, Ill. Interment in the Harmony Cemetery. Brethren Ezra Yordy, Geo. Troyer, and Ernest Miller had charge of the services, the latter preaching the sermon.
Good.-Magdalena, daughter of the late Daniel and Elizabeth
(Carpenter) Nolt, widow of the late Samuel Z. Good of near New
Holland. Pa., was born March 19, 1862; died Nov. 27, 1939; aged
77 y. 8 m. 8 d. She was a faithful member of the Weaverland Conference
Mennonite Church for many years. She was born near New Holland.
She is survived by the following children: Daniel N. and Christian
N. Good of New Holland; Mary, wife of Noah N. Martin, of Ephrata;
Lizzie, wife of Henry H. Good of Ephrata; Anna, wife of David
M. Reiff of New Holland. She is also survived by 3 sisters, 21
grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Funeral services Dec.
1, at the house by Bro. Moses Horning, followed at the Groffdale
(frame) Mennonite Church by Bros. Joseph Hostetter and Frank Horst,
and at the grave by Bro. Abe Hoover. Text, Rev. 21 :4.
"Grandmother, dear, your wish is granted,
Sorrow, pain, and grief are o'er;
By the grace of God we'll meet you
Over on that peaceful shore."
By a granddaughter.
Moser.-Fanny, daughter of the late John and Anna (Tchantz) Lehman, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, Oct. 21, 1864; died Nov. 30, 1939; aged 75 y. 1 m. 9 d. On April 7, 1882, she was baptized and received into the Sonnenberg Mennonite Church, remaining a faithful member until death, always attending church services as long as her health permitted. On March 29, 1885 she was united in marriage with Jacob Moser. They were privileged for almost 55 years to share the joys and sorrows of life together. She leaves to mourn her departure her husband (Minister Jacob Moser of Kidron), 6 children (Mrs. Noah Sommer, John F. Moser, Mrs. Menno Gerber, Mrs. John Kratzer, and Jacob N. Moser of the home community, and Mrs. Daniel Kratzer of Canton), 31 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 4 brothers, 3 sisters, and many other relatives and friends. One brother, 1 sister, and 5 grandchildren preceded her in death. Funeral services were held at the Sonnenberg Church, conducted by Bro. Louis Amstutz and Bro. Jacob Neuenschwander. Text, Psa. 90:10. Interment in adjoining cemetery.
Neff.-Catherine, daughter of Moses and Susan Hostetler, was born July 25, 1854, at Sugarcreek, Ohio; died at her home Dec. 6, 1939; aged 85 y. 4 m. 11 d. She was married to Cornelius Neff in 1876. To this union were born 3 sons and 1 daughter. Her husband and 1 daughter (Minnie) preceded her in death. Those left to mourn her passing are her 3 sons (Henry and Edwin of Comins, John of Shanesville, O.), 1 sister (Mrs. Amanda Troyer of Amboy, Ind.), and 3 brothers (Jacob of Sugarcreek, O.; Emanuel of Middlefield, O.; William of Mio, Mich.). Four sisters and 2 brothers preceded her in death. She also leaves 8 grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. She accepted Christ in her youth and remained faithful to her vow until she was called home. She was bedfast for nearly five months, but bore her sickness with patience. She lived near Sugarcreek, O., until a few years after the death of her husband. Then with her family she moved to Comins, Mich., where they lived the past 35 years. She always filled her place in the home and community, and will be missed by everyone. Funeral services were held Dec. 9, with home ministers in charge. Text, I Pet. 1 :3, 4. Burial in Fairview Cemetery.
Bare.-John L., son of the late Wayne and Mary (Landis)
Bare, was born Feb. 10, 1850; died at his home in Bareville. Pa.,
Nov. 27, 1939; aged 89 y. 9 m. 27 d. Death was caused by complications.
Early in life he accepted Christ as his Saviour and united with
the Stumptown Mennonite Church, remaining a faithful member. He
was first married to Mary S. Rohrer Nov. 15, 1874. To this union
3 sons and 2 daughters were born (Mrs. David Weaver, Lancaster;
John R., Monterey; Martin R., Witmer; and Mary H. at home). His
wife and 1 son (Clayton H.) preceded him in death. His second
marriage was to Barbara S. Rohrer, Dec. 13, 1587. To his union
an infant was born. Surviving are his wife, 2 sons, 2 daughters,
16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; also 3 sisters and 1
brother (Mrs. Sarah Kurtz, Mrs. Emma Rohrer, Mrs. Ida Rohrer of
Lancaster, Wayne L. of Eden). It was 56 years on the date that
his former companion was laid to rest. The funeral was held Nov.
29 at the home by Elmer G. Martin and at Stumptown Church conducted
by David L. Landis. Text, II Tim. 4 :6 5. Interment in adjoining
cemetery.
"Silent is the voice of Father,
Vacant always is his chair;
And how sad the room without him.
For there is no father there."
Wenger.-Amos C., son of Levi and Sadie Wenger, was born
Sept. 9, 1885. After an illness of one month he died Oct. 20,
1939; aged 54 y. 1 m. 11 d. He was an active member of St. John's
Church, United Brethren in Christ, Paradise. During the pastorate
of E. J. Renshaw he was converted and from the beginning of his
Christian life took an active part in the work of the church of
his choice. He served as a steward of the church for some years,
also was a trustee of the church for six years. He served as class
header in the prayer meeting for 15 yrs. He taught the men's Bible
class for 16 yrs., also a rural mail carrier for the past 18 yrs.
On Jan. 21, 1909, he was united in marriage to Lydia Lichty. He
is survived by his wife and. an adopted daughter (Mrs. Lester
Myers), his mother, 4 sisters (Mrs. Maggie Kreider, Mrs. Catherine
Kreider, Mrs. Mary Groff and Sarah at home), and 1 brother (Christian
Wenger). He was preceded in death by his father, a brother (Oliver
Wenger) and a sister. Funeral services were held in St. John's
Church, conducted by C. A. Snavely. Text, Acts 24:15. Interment
in adjoining cemetery.
"The call was sudden, the shock severe,
We little thought that his end was near;
And only those who have lost can tell
The loss of a loved one without farewell."
By a friend.
Souder-Harvey A., son of Pre. Mahlon and Lizzie Souder
(deceased), was born near Sellersville, Pa.. Feb. 26, 1891; died
at his late residence (adjoining the farm where he was born) Nov.
11, 1939; aged 48 y. 8 m. 15 d. He was bedfast 5 months. On March
30, 1912, he was married to Bessie Freed. This union was blessed
with 4 children. He is survived by his companion and 4 children
(Paul, Ruth, Eva and Marie) all at home; also 2 brothers and a
sister (Pre. Edwin A. Souder, Telford, Pa.; Erwin A. of Philadelphia;
and Hannah, wife of A. Lincoln Gehman of Sellersville). Three
sisters and 2 brothers preceded him in death. He was very active
in church and Sunday school work, being a trustee of the Rockhill
Church (of which he was a member from his youth), also secretary
of the Sunday school and a member of the Cemetery Committee. He
was always interested in the spiritual welfare of the Church.
Funeral services were held at the home Nov. 15. Services were
conducted by Bro. Isaac F. Detweiler and at the Rockhill Mennonite
Church by Bros. Jacob Clemens and Alfred Detweiler. Text, Psa.
55 :22. Interment in the adjoining cemetery.
"Sweetly rest, dear brother,
With loved ones gone before;
May we all prepare to meet you
On yonder peaceful shore."
By his sister.
Brenneman.-Alta Brenneman, was born Apr. 22, 1894 died at her home near Kalona, Iowa, Dec. 4, 1939: aged 45 y. 7 m. 12 d. On Sept. 9, 1914, she was united in marriage to Ray Brenneman. To this union 3 sons were born (Elwyn, Leland and Marvin), who with their father mourn the passing of a devoted and loving companion and mother. In her infancy she was adopted into the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward D. Miller, who preceded her in death. In this home she was reared, grew to womanhood, and always enjoyed the love and devotion of a Christian home. In this home she was intimately associated with Cora, wife of Ben M. Miller of Kalona, and Gertrude, wife of Samuel Bender of Wellman. They together experienced the joys of childhood and youth, and the love and devotion that have bound them together all these years have always been very marked. In her youth she accepted Christ as her Saviour and united with the East Union Mennonite Church, where she always was a faithful and consistent member. Alta was of a kind and cheerful disposition, which naturally won for her many friends, always taking an active interest in the various activities of the Church. In the passing of Sister Brenneman, the family circle is broken (where she will naturally be missed most), the community loses a fine neighbor and friend, the Church a faithful servant of the Lord. Thus we humbly submit to Him who "doeth all things well." Funeral services were held at the East Union Church, with burial in the East Union Cemetery, in charge of Bros. John Y. Swartzendruber and D. J. Fisher.
Transcribed by Nancy Regan, Washington
White.-John T. White was born in Illinois, Dec. 18, 1868; died Nov. 20, 1939; aged 71 y. 11 m. 2 d. He was married three times. Two children were born to the first union (Thomas White of Lagrange, Mo., and Clara Jaspering, Warenton, Mo.). Five children were born to the second marriage (James G. White, Leo F. White, Stella McThanth, Oscar White, and Virgil White, all of Marion Co., Mo.). To the third union 9 children were born (Gilbert, Louise, Harry, Wayne, Winson, Junior, Lucille, Paul, and Donald Lee, all at home). One half brother, who lives at Alton, Ill., is left to mourn his departure. One child preceded him in death. He was a member of the Christian Church. Funeral conducted by J. M. Kreider, assisted by H. R. Buckwalter.
Shull.-John W., son of Daniel and Mary Shull, was born Aug. 30, 1862 in Hancock Co., Ind.; died Oct. 25, 1939; aged 77 y. 1 m. 26 d. He was married to Hattie White, March 12, 1892. Eight children were born to this union (Frank Shull of Quincy, Ill.; Mrs. Henry Jensen of Campbell, Calif.; Mrs. J. L. Martin of Philadelphia, Mo.; Mrs. Jack Maynard, of San Jose, Calif.; Mrs. William Ward of Chicago, Ill.; Lillie Shull of Sacramento, Calif.; Thomas Shull of Philadelphia, and Mrs. A. W. Spratt of Muscatine, Ia.). Two brothers and 1 sister are left to mourn his departure. He was a great sufferer. He had a great longing to go home, where he would be forever free from suffering. He had been a member of the Mennonite Church for over thirty years (having formerly been a Presbyterian) and was a faithful member until God saw fit to take him home. Funeral at the Presbyterian Church near Benbow, Mo., in charge of Bro. J. M. Kreider assisted by Brethren Ira and Harry Buckwalter. Text, II Cor. 5:1.
Ranck.-Anna M. Ranck was born in Lancaster Co., Pa., Jan. 22, 1871; died at her home near Paradise, Pa., Nov. 28, 1939; aged 68 y. 10 m. 6 d. She was in failing health for several years, but bore her sufferings patiently, only waiting for her Lord to take her home, there to join in the songs of the redeemed, with those of the family who have gone on before. She accepted Christ as her personal Saviour in early life, united with the Mennonite Church, and remained a faithful member until death; being a Sunday-school teacher for a number of years. She is survived by 1 brother, 1 sister, 2 nieces, 2 nephews, and many other sympathizing friends. Funeral services were conducted Dec. 1 at the home by Bro. Martin Hershey (text, Psa. 16) and at Strasburg Mennonite Church by Bro. Parke Book. Text, Jer. 31:25, 26. Burial in the adjoining cemetery. While we miss her sweet presence very keenly, we are comforted to know that if we are faithful we will meet her again. May we cherish the memory of her gentle life and Christian example.
Martin.-Anna, daughter of the late Jonathan and Elizabeth Martin, was born March 9, 1864, near Dalton, Ohio; died Dec. 12, 1939, at the home of her nephew (D. J. Martin near Dayton, Va.); aged 75 y. 9 m. 3 d. She is survived by 1 brother (Samuel B. Martin of Dalton) and 1 sister (Elizabeth, wife of Jacob S. Lehman of Columbiana, Ohio). She was predeceased by 4 brothers (John, Christian, David, and Henry) and 1 sister (Barbara). In October, 1930, several years after the death of her sister Barbara, she moved to Virginia, where funeral services were held Dec. 13 at the Pleasant View Mennonite Church. The body was then shipped to Ohio, where services were held Dec. 13 at the County Line Mennonite Church. Interment in the cemetery near-by. She suffered much in her lifetime, and the last three months a heart ailment gave her so much distress that she longed for eternal rest and to meet those gone before. She was "Aunt Annie" to many, and will be greatly missed.
"Thou child of God well done.
The Master has called for thee;
Thy beautiful crown is won,
In Jesus victory."
Weldy.-Kathryn Marilyn, daughter of Noah and Lily Weldy was born near Wakarusa, Ind., Sept. 1, 1926. She gave her heart to the Lord and united with the Mennonite Church and Holdeman congregation Dec. 13, 1938. She was a faithful attendant at Sunday school and Church services. She had not been well during the last year, suffering from heart trouble. She attended the first five weeks as an eighth grade pupil at the Wakarusa school. She had been confined to her bed the last seven weeks and was taken to the Elkhart hospital where she died Nov. 27, 1939. During her suffering she expressed her trust in her Saviour, that He would do what is best for her. She leaves her parents, 1 brother (Russel of Ft. Wayne, Ind.), 1 sister (Marjorie, at home), and her grandmother (Mrs. Henry Weldy). One brother (Dorvin) died in infancy. Funeral services held at the Olive Mennonite Church conducted by the home ministers, S. L. Weldy, Warren Shaum, and D. A. Yoder.
"Peacefully sleeping, resting at last,
The world's weary troubles and trials are past;
In silence she suffered, in patience she bore,
Till God called her home to suffer no more."
Martin.-Elizabeth H., widow of the late Benj. S. Martin, was born Aug. 7, 1860; died Oct. 30, 1939, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, John H. Thomas, of Letort, Pa.; aged 79 y. 2 m. 22 d. She was a daughter of the late Martin and Elizabeth (Herr) Dambach and is the last of a family of 15 children. She was united in marriage to Benjamin Shaub Martin Nov. 11, 1884, and they united with the Habeckers Mennonite Church May 1, 1886; to which vow she remained faithful till death. Her seat was seldom empty when health permitted. Her husband and 1 son (Amos Walter) preceded her in death. She is survived by the following children: John D. Martin; Mary D., wife of Amos H. Shaub of Lancaster; Elizabeth, wife of John H. Thomas; Susan A., wife of Jacob H. Thomas of Lancaster; Benjamin F. Martin; also by 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held Nov. 2 at the home of her daughter (with whom she resided) and at Habeckers Mennonite Church in charge of the home ministers: Jacob C. Habecker, Christian K. Lehman, and John K. Charles. Burial in the adjoining cemetery.
"We know there's a home in our Father's house,
A home for us all in the skies;
And we know that the one we loved so well,
Has gained that Paradise."
Wolfe.-Marion Francis, eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. William Wolfe, was born in Fairfield Co., Ohio. Aug. 16, 1855; died at his home in West Liberty, Ohio, Dec. 8. 1939; aged 84 y. 3 m. 22 d. In the year 1878 he was united in marriage to Mollie E. Bontrager, who preceded him in death 10 years ago. In the year 1882 they moved to near Kingscreek, Ohio, where they resided with Grandpa and Grandma Bontrager, until the death of both parents, later moving to West Liberty. There were no children born to this home, but a niece (Mrs. Josie Woodruff) was given a home with them and cared for as their own child for a number of years. Later, his father and mother came to make their home with them, and were tenderly cared for during their declining years. "Uncle Marion" was of a very quiet, retiring disposition but his friends were many. He was always ready to lend a helping hand whenever the opportunity afforded. He was a charter member of the Bethel Mennonite Church, was interested in the work of the Church, and was always found in services as long as health permitted. On Aug 14, 1931, he was united in marriage to Sister Sarah Stayrook, who with 3 stepdaughters and 3 stepsons survive him. He also leaves 2 brothers (Perry of Urbana and Lemuel of DeGraff) and 2 sisters (Mrs. Mary Dickinson of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Mrs. Chloe Snoke of Lancaster, Ohio), and many relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at Bethel Church in charge of Bros. S. E. Allgyer and Wallace Kauffman. Interment in the South Union Cemetery.
Weep not that his toils are over,
Weep not that his race is run;
God grant we may rest as calmly,
As he, when our work is done.
Good.-Phares, son of the late Christian and Hannah (Burkhardt) Good, was born Oct. 25, 1872, near Bowmansville, Pa.; died Dec. 9, 1939, at the place of his birth; aged 67 y. 1 m. 15 d. In October, 1893, he was baptized on confession of faith and received into Christian fellowship by the late Bishop Martin Root. In October, 1896, he joined hands and heart with Sister Lydia Bowman. He was a faithful member of the Bowmansville congregation, ready to do his part whenever called on. They lived all their life (except the two first years) on the old Christian Good homestead near Bowmansville. God gave to them 7 children, who with their mother all survive. Their names are: Susie (Good), Katie (Good), Elsie (Brendle), Bessie (Buckwalter), Mamie (Good), Omar, and Horace. Omar lives on the old homestead where the parents resided. 18 grandchildren remain. He left 1 brother and 2 sisters. His demise was a shock to the family and to the whole community. Being engaged at a wool-carding machine in an Adamstown hat factory, he was caught in a wheel and his body so badly mangled that he passed away 17 hours later in the Reading General hospital. Tragic indeed, ended the career of our beloved and faithful brother in the Lord. Through this providence God calls to us all to be ready. His life and testimony are such that we can have a sure hope that he is gone "to be with the Lord." He was a faithful standby in all the Church services, took part in Sunday school and week-day evening Bible study, shared the lot for the ministry, with nine others in 1912. Funeral services were held Dec. 13 in the Bowmansville Church. Relatives, sympathizing friends, and neighbors filled the house. Service, in charge of the home ministry. Text, Matt, 23:44-47.
Herschberger.-Barbara Miller Herschberger, was born May 11, 1878, near Sugarcreek, O.; died at Portsmouth, Va., on Nov. 14, 1939; aged 61 y. 6 m. 3 d. On Sept. 24, 1896, she was baptized and received in the Old Order Amish Church and lived a faithful member until death. On Feb. 3, 1898, she was married to Enos C. Herschberger of Arthur, Ill. They never had any children; but on Aug. 2, 1910, they adopted Robert Fritz Herschberger, then two years old. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, 1 brother (Isaac), and 5 sisters (Elizabeth, wife of Eli Kaufman, Middlebury, Ind.; Sarah, wife of Lewis Kaser, Farmerstown, O.; Susan, wife of Joseph Kuhns, Milford, Ind.; Mattie, wife of Abraham M. Miller, Beech City, O.; and Fannie died when young). She leaves her husband, foster son, 1 brother (Levi A. Miller of Hartville, O.), and many nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends. After marriage she lived near Arthur, Ill., until 1903. Then moved to Lenapah, Okla.; in 1904 moved back to Ohio and lived there until 1924; then came to Virginia. She had been failing in health since 1917, and for the past five years had been in a wheel chair. She suffered much pain for several years. Death was due to heart trouble; also had dropsy and rheumatism, and was not able to take care of herself for a number of years. However, she was bedfast only about two months. Funeral services were held at the Old Order Amish Church at Kempsville, Va., conducted by Bishop D. J. Stutzman and Eli Yoder in German, and Orrie Yoder of Oyster Point, Va., in English. Burial in the near-by cemetery.
"'Tis hard to part with Barbara, dear,
No more to see her here;
But yet we're glad if God saw best
To end her troubles and give her rest;
In heaven to reign with angels fair,
May our names too be written there."
-Enos and Robert.
Yoder.-Christian Z., son of John K. and Lydia (Zook)
Yoder, was born Nov. 28, 1845 near Belleville, Pa., moved to Wayne
Co., O., with his parents at the age of ten years, and died Dec.
9, 1939, at his home near Wooster, O.; aged 94 y. 11 d. Death
came after an illness of thirty-six hours and is ascribed to heart
failure. He married Lydia Smiley Oct. 22, 1868, and on Apr. 1
of the following year they moved to the farm which was his home
until death. This loving partnership was broken after fifty-three
years by the death of Lydia on Jan. 22, 1922.
Funeral services were held in the Oak Grove Church near Smithville,
O. A crowd of relatives and friends from the home and surrounding
communities and adjoining states attended the services. Both auditorium
and basement (where amplifiers had been installed) were filled
to capacity. Thirty-five ministers and deacons occupied the rostrum
and front seats. The services were conducted by J. S. Gerig of
the Oak Grove church, and I. W. Royer of Orrville, O.; David McFadden
of the Ch. of the Brethren, S. C. Yoder of Goshen, Ind., D. D.
Miller of Middlebury, Ind., and S. B. Allgyer of West Liberty,
O., contributing. David McFadden was always a close friend of
the family. His father being born within a few days of Bro. Yoder
in the same school district, moving to Wayne Co., at the same
time and settling in the same school district, they were close
friends until his death four years ago. The theme of the messages
centered about the importance of making Christ and His Word central
in our lives and the power of a life so surrendered. Tribute was
paid to Bro. Yoder's ministry of song, ministry of exhortation,
and ministry of service. The seven sons acted as pall bearers.
Burial in the cemetery near the church.
He confessed his Saviour in June, 1865, and in Sept. of that year
was received by baptism as a member of the Oak Grove Church, where
he happily served his Christ till death by song, by prayer, and
by sacrificial service. His life was truly surrendered to God
and no task was too large or too small, too far or too exacting
to be joyfully accepted and conscientiously performed. In fullness
of joy he served his congregation and the Church at large. In
1871 he was asked to organize the Sunday school at Oak Grove and
acted as its Supt. for twenty-two years. After that, for many
years his task in the Sunday school was to gather the children
around him for songs and stories before they went to their classes.
In 1890 he was chosen to serve as a deacon and in the same year
organized a young people's Bible meeting at Oak Grove. He aided
in the organization of the Ohio State Sunday School Conference
and several Sunday schools in Ohio. In Oct., 1904, he was chosen
to serve as one of the ministers at Oak Grove, a service in which
he was active until after his ninetieth year. Even after his strength
did not permit him to preach and his eyes were dim, he enjoyed
repeating sections of the Bible and leading his favorite songs,
and he was a familiar figure visiting the old and sick and distributing
flowers.
He served the church at large as an evangelist, preaching in practically
every Mennonite community in the United States and Canada. He
made the creation and organization of missionary interest and
activity in the Mennonite Church a central part of his Christian
service. From 1899 to 1906 he served as Vice-president of the
Mennonite Board of Charitable Homes and Missions and was continued
in that position when that Board and the Mennonite Evangelizing
and Benevolent Board merged to form the present Mennonite Board
of Missions and Charities. From 1911 to 1920 he served as President
of this Board, from 1920 to 1928 as Chairman of the Mission Committee
of this Board, and since 1928 as an honorary member of this committee.
He was always interested in song. In 1866 he organized and led
a singing school meeting at Center School in Green Twp., using
religious songs and hymns as teaching material. He conducted a
number of such schools, and later the Paradise Church of the Brethren
invited him to lead singing classes in their church on Sunday
evening, which meetings led to the organization of our own young
people's Bible meetings. He served on the Music Committee of the
General Conference since its organization and assisted in the
compilation of the German Hymnal in 1894, the Mennonite Church
and Sunday School Hymnal in 1902, the Supplement to the Church
and Sunday School Hymnal in 1911, Life Songs in 1916 and the Mennonite
Hymnal in 1927.
Besides his Church and Sunday-school activities, he found time
to serve his community in its daily life and make his living in
a very difficult period for agriculture. Practically the entire
period of active farm management, 1865 to 1895, was one of post-war
depression and low farm prices, which he successfully met. He
introduced a number of new cultural practices to the community-the
abolition of fences, soilage system of farm management, under-drainage,
the culture of vegetables and berries, greenhouse culture. He
was instrumental in the organization of farmers' institutes, was
an early Institute speaker and contributor to farm papers, and
was influeutial in the location of the Ohio Agricultural Experimental
Station at Wooster. For many years he was a member of the Green
Twp. School Board, being a member when the schoolhouses which
have been just recently discarded were built and was largely responsible
for the pine trees which surround all of them. He loved his community
and was loved by all.
His wife, 1 brother (Preacher David Z.), 1 sister (Mary, wife
of Jacob N. Yoder), and 1 daughter (Mary B.), preceded him in
death. He is survived by 7 sons (John S. of Wooster, David A.
of Toledo, Rufus M. of Lancaster, Menno S. and Ira D. of Barberton,
Orie C. of Peru, Ill., and Joseph D. of Larchmont, N.Y.), 16 grandchildren,
and 12 great-grandchildren. He had the pleasure of having six
of his sons and many of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren
celebrate his birthday with him just eleven days before his death.
Transcribed by Nancy Regan, Washington