Gospel Herald Obituaries - May, 1954

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 18 - May 4, 1954 --- page 429, 430

Brubaker, Sophia Frances, daughter of the late Jacob and Margaret (Heatwole) Showalter, was born Nov. 29, 1877, in August Co., Va.; passed away at her home near Mt. Crawford, Va., March 13, 1954; aged 76 y. 3 m. 13 d. Death came suddenly, due to a heart attack although she had been in failing health for some time. She had been able to attend church and her sear was seldom vacant. On Jan. 16, 1908, she was united in marriage to William S. Brubaker, who preceded her in death on July 27, 1937. She leaves to mourn her departure the following children: Jacob D.; Margaret L.-Mrs. Boyd Shank, Mary F., Anna R., and Daniel A., all of Harrisonburg, Va.; also 12 grandchildren. An infant son (James W.) and an infant grandson also preceded her. The following brothers and sisters survive: Mrs. David Swope, Annie Showalter, and Mrs. Samuel Weaver, all of Dayton, Va.; Henry, Denver, Colo.; Daniel and Peter, Harrisonburg, Va. One brother (Menno) preceded her. Funeral services were conducted at the Pike Mennonite Church by S. H. Rhodes, assisted by Aldine Brenneman and D. W. Lehman, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Detwiler, Emma, daughter of John and Barbara (Plank) Detwiler, was born Sept. 15, 1868, near Mingo, Ohio; died March 14, 1954; aged 85 y. 6 m. She became a member of the Mennonite Church in hear early youth, and was a charter member of the Bethel Mennonite Church in West Liberty. She lived a life of service for others from the time she was but a young girl. She lived the greater part of life in Bellefontaine, Ohio, spending her later years in the home o her brother (Clarence) and for the last year and half at the Solomnson Rest Home in West Liberty where she passed to her eternal reward. She appreciated greatly the Christian care she received at both her brother's home and at the rest home. She is surivived by 2 brothers (Edward, Wellman, Iowa, and Clarence, Bellefontaine, Ohio). Funeral services were conducted at the Troyer and Lynn Funeral Home, West Liberty, Ohio, by Nelson Kanagy. Interment was made in the Alexander Cemetery near Degraff, Ohio.

Eberly, Rose Ann, daughter of Norman N. and Ruth (Landis) Eberly, New Holland, Pa., was born Feb. 8, 1950; died in Lancaster General Hospital, March 28, 1954; aged 4 y. 1 m. 20 d. Death was caused by a fractured skull received in an accident on her father's farm on March 24. She never regained consciousness after the accident. Besides her parents she is survived by these brothers and sister (Leon, Paul, Glenn, Marian, and Joyce, all at home), and her grandfather (Harry M. Landis). Funeral services were held on April 1 at the Groffdale Mennonite Church. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Hathaway, Lawrence Dale, son of Oliver and Ruby (Greaser) Hathaway, was born Sept. 23, 1951, near Palmyra, Mo.; passed away March 23, 1954, at Barnes Hospital, St. Louis, Mo.; aged 2 y. 6 m. His death was caused by a brain tumor. Lawrence Dale was sick only a short time. He underwent surgery tend days after his first complaint of a headache, and died as the doctor was putting in the last stitches, just after the doctor had remarked that the operation was a success. He leaves to mourn his early departure, his parents, 2 half brothers (Howard and James), grandparents, and many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the Pea Ridge Mennonite Church, March 26, with Daniel Kauffman in charge, assisted by Harold Kreider, Ira Buckwalter, and Harry Buckwalter. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Miller, Annie Mabel, daughter of John B. and Catherine (Yoder) Miller, was born in Johnson Co., Iowa, Aug. 30, 1880; died at her home near Wellman, Iowa, Feb. 8, 1954; aged 73 y. 5 m. 8 d. In youth she accepted Christ as her Saviour, and was a charter member of the Upper Deer Creek, C. A. Mennonite Church at the time of her death. On Nov. 27, 1904, she was united in marriage to David D. Miller. To this union 3 children were born (Bertha-Mrs. Ora Swartzendruber, Parnell, Iowa; Emily, at home; and Ivan J., Wellman, Iowa). Besides the children she leaves 9 grandchildren, 2 brothers (Eli A. Miller, Colorado Springs; and Ura A. Miller, Lone Tree, Iowa), and 2 sisters (Naomi-wife of the late Pre. David Miller, Wellman, Iowa; and Helena-Mrs. Menno Swartzendruber, Limon, Colo.). Her husband preceded her in death Feb. 10, 1949, also one sister (Esther-Mrs. Chris Hershberger) and one brother (Uriah). Her health had been failing for some time, and the last three weeks she was confined to her bed, and then peacefully passed away. Funeral services were held at Upper Deer Creek Church near Wellman, Iowa, Feb. 10, in charge of Albert S. Miller, Morris E. Swartzendruber, and John Y. Swartzendruber.

Ressor, Thomas, was born March 18, 1867; passed away March 20, 1954; aged 87 y. 2 d. He was married to Adeline Grove, who died in 1943. To this union were born 4 daughters and one son (Amos, of Scarboro Township; Martha, deceased; Esther-Mrs. Aaron Weber, Elmira, Ont.; Elizabeth-Mrs. Allen Wideman, of Stouffville; and Annie-Mrs. Isaac Robert, of Maple), 13 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. He belonged to the Markham Mennonite Church and was ordained to the ministry in 1916. He was leader in founding the relief organization, and showed a keen interest in the same until old age prevented. Funeral services were held March 22 at the Ressor Church. Ministers who took part in the services were Fred Nighswander, Abraham Smith, and Cecil Ressor. Visiting ministers who took part in the services were Paul Hoover, Goshen, Ind.; Amsey Martin, Wallenstein, Ont.; Moses Horst, Rittman, Ohio; and Banks Horning, Denver, Pa. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Slonecker, Peter J., son of the late Daniel J. and Mary (Krabill) Slonecker, was born to Stark Co., Ohio, Nov. 20, 1874; died April 7, 1954; aged 79 y. 4 m. 18 d. His parents moved to Logan Co., Ohio, when he was a small child and he remained in the community all his life. He was married to Katie Roth, Dec. 12, 1899, and they celebrated their fiftieth anniversary on Dec. 12, 1949. To this union were born 4 children (Mary-Mrs. Archie Headings, West Liberty, Ohio; Margaret-Mrs. Boyd Yoder, Lester, and Carl, all of Bellefontaine, Ohio). Besides his wife and 4 children, he is survived by 13 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and one brother (Dave Slonecker, of Bellefontaine). One grandson preceded him in death. He always enjoyed good health until June, 1952, when he underwent surgery. His health gradually failed and his daughter, Mary, and her husband came to stay with him and her mother during his failing days. He was a faithful member of the South Union Mennonite Church from his youth. Funeral services were

held at the South Union Mennonite Church conducted by Paul Roth, Mason Town, Pa., nephew of the family and Wayne North. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Troyer, Noah E., born into the home of Elias D. and Susannah (Oswald) Troyer, near Berlin, Ohio, May 5, 1879, was the fifth of a family of nine children (Peter, Lydia, Elizabeth, Martha, Amanda, Eli, Sana, and Menno). At the age of three, the family moved to Michigan, later going to Arthur, Ill., McPherson Co., Kans., back to Illinois, and finally to Champaign Co., Ohio, in 1895, in which community he resided since, except for four years given in service to the church as superintendent of the Mennonite Mission at Canton, Ohio. On Feb. 28, 1907, he was married to Eva Mae Allgyer, eldest daughter of Bro. S. E. Allgyer. To this union 3 children were born (Louella-Mrs. L. J. Martin, Goshen, Ind.; Mark Raymond and Samuel Earl, West Liberty, Ohio). His wife preceded him in death on Sept. 4, 1949, also a sister and a brother. Besides his 3 children, he is survived by 2 brothers (Peter A., who is presently at Sarasota, Fla., and Menno L., Elida, Ohio), 4 sisters (Mrs. J. F. Kanagy and Mrs. Eli D. Yoder, West Liberty, Ohio; Mrs. J. I. Byler, Shipshewana, Ind.; and Mrs. Samuel Witmer, Goshen, Ind.), 10 grandchildren, 25 nieces and nephews, and 54 grandnieces and nephews. As a young man of 16 he felt the need of a personal Saviour, yielded his life to the Lord, and joined the Oak Grove Mennonite Church. From that time he continued a life of unselfish devotion to his Master and his Church accepting increasing responsibilities as part of his service. He served as chorister, Sunday-school teacher and superintendent. He was ordained to the ministry April 28, 1919, and as bishop April 21, 1940. From 1919 to 1923 he was superintendent of the Canton Mennonite Mission. With this experience in the mission, he felt the need of doing additional evangelistic work and devoted as much of his time toward that end as he could spare from his other duties. Few are the communities of Ohio, Indian, Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Ontario, that have not felt the impact of his soul-stirring messages. He also became active in the conference-wide administrative work of the church. He was president and member for some years of the Executive Committee of the Ohio and Eastern A. M. Conference and a member of the Ohio Mission Board. The burden of his heart was that the church would remain faithful and true. He never wanted to be a burden to his church or community, and so combined farming with his ministerial duties, retiring from the farm in 1944 and from the ministry in 1952. The humility of spirit, his willingness to accept the hard things of life, whatever God asked him to endure, and his great patience and devotion to others were especially noteworthy during the nine years of unselfish care of his wife during her illness and passing. Gradually failing in health after a life of hard work and unselfish devotion, his last years were spent quietly in rest and meditation at the home of Grandfather Allgyer, his sister Elizabeth, and for a short time with his son Raymond. When his failing faculties required more care, he went first to the Mennonite Home for the Aged near Rittman, Ohio, and then to the Kollmeier Rest Home, in Findlay to spend his remaining days. He had been a resident at the latter home only since the Christmas holidays. He had been ill from a complication of diseased which became critical the last three days. He quietly passed from this life on Feb. 4, 1954; aged 74 y. 8m. 30 d. H could say with the Apostle Paul, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day." Many will miss his wise counsel, his kindly concern for their welfare, his deep humility, his constant devotion, and his unfailing patience.

Wenger, Sarah Frances (Sallie), daughter of Abraham B. and Sarah (Hartman) Wenger, was born Oct. 27, 1878, near Harrisonburg, Va.; died March 14, 1954, at her birthplace; aged 75 y. 4 m. 15 d. "Miss Sallie," as she was affectionately known by both old and young, possessed a kind and gentle Christian personality. She was a lifelong member of the Mennonite Church. She is survived by one sister (Mrs. Rachel Kilburn, of Harrisonburg), and a number of nieces and nephews. Two sisters (Mrs. Rebecca Barnhart and Miss Elizabeth Wenger), and 2 brothers (Isaac B., and Clement D.), preceded her in death. Funeral services were held March 16 at Weaver's Church with Harold Eshleman in charge, assisted by Aldine Brenneman and Daniel Lehman.

Yoder, Ella M., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Tangeman, Talmage, Nebr., was born June 27, 1883; passed away March 11, 1954, at the Municipal Hospital, Wadsworth, Ohio; aged 70 y. 8 m. 12 d. On Feb. 4, 1908, she was united in marriage to Alpha B. Yoder. They lived in Talmage for 21 years and then moved to West Liberty, Ohio, where they lived for 27 years. At an early age she became a member of the German Evangelical Church, later transferring her membership to the Oak Grove Mennonite Church, West Liberty, Ohio, where she was a happy, faithful member. A little more than a year ago as her health was failing she and her husband decided to enter the Home at Rittman Ohio, where they were happy and content. Two weeks before her death she entered the Municipal Hospital, where she peacefully fell asleep due to a malignant condition. She leaves her husband, one brother (Elmer Tangeman, Lander, Wyo.), and many nephews, nieces, and friends. Funeral services were conducted at the Crown Hill Church near Rittman, Ohio by Nelson Kanagy, assisted by Wm. G. Detweiler. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 19 - May 11, 1954 ­ page 453, 454

Bontrager, Mary Magdalene, oldest daughter of Amos and Elizabeth (Grove) Weaver, was born Oct. 11, 1915, near Kinross, Iowa; was called to rest at the Halstead Clinic, April 21, 1954; aged 38 y. 6 m. 10 d. She had been afflicted five years previously with chronic ulcerative colitis. She had a second major operation from which she never recovered. She leaves to mourn her departure her husband (David A. Bontrager), 2 daughters (Twila Fern, aged 12; Bonnie Jean, aged 5), 2 sons (Orval Lee, aged 11; Duane Dee, aged 9), her parents, 5 sisters (Esther-Mrs. Leroy E. Schrock, Glen For a, Wis.; Goldie-Mrs. Melvin Miller, Ft. Seybert, W. Va.; Virginia, Goshen, Ind.; and Velma-Mrs. Dean Yoder, Wellman, Iowa), and one brother (Vernon, Kalona, Iowa). She was preceded in death by 2 brothers (Floyd and Melvin). She united with the Liberty Mennonite Church, South English, Iowa, at the age of seven. Her faithful service at home and her activity in the home church prepared her for her call to serve at the Hutchinson Mission. Funeral services were held at the Yoder Mennonite Church, April 25, conducted by Harry A. Diener, Anderw Bontrager, Edward Yutzy, and John E. Wenger.

Hochstetler, Ruth Leona, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Dettweiler) Tyson, was born March 8, 1899, Elkhart Co., Ind.; died April 21, 1954; aged 55 y. 1 m. 13 d. In her youth she accepted Christ as her Saviour and united with the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church where she remained a faithful member until death. On Nov. 3, 1923, she was united in marriage to Levi G. Hochstetler. To this union were born 4 daughters and 2 sons (Gladys, Westville, Ind.; Ernest, Syracuse, Ind.; Lois-Mrs. Lloyd Miller, and Fern-Mrs. Maynard Begly, both of Goshen, Ind.; and Faye and Otis at home). Surviving besides her husband and 6 children are 4 grandchildren, her mother, one sister (Mrs. William Goetz, of Goshen), and 2 brothers (Levi, Elkhart, Ind., and Elmer, Wakarusa, Ind.). Three grandchildren, her father, and one brother preceded her in death. Funeral services were held at the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church with Roy S. Koch and Peter Wiebe in charge. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Hochstetler, Samuel D., son of the late Pr. David and Magdalena Hochstetler, was born in Elkhart Co., Ind., Aug. 25, 1872; died Feb. 17, 1954, on the same farm where he was born; aged 81 y. 5 m. 23 d. He was united in marriage to Magdalena Troyer on March 24, 1893. She preceded him in death in 1947. He leaves to mourn his departure 2 sons, 5 daughters, 2 foster sons, and one fosters daughter (Elmer, of Goshen; Sarah-Mrs. Henry Miller, Middlebury, Ind.; Mary-Mrs. Manasseh Bontreger, Calico Rock, Ark.; Elam, of the home place; Fannie-Mrs. Fred Otis, of Goshen; Lucy, a patient at the mental hospital, Logansport, Ind.; Susie-Mrs. Andrew Miller, Millersburg, Ind.; Blair Ringer, Portland, Oreg.; Walter Heinrich and Almeda-Mrs. Daniel Kauffman, both of Goshen, Ind.), 24 grandchildren, 13 foster grandchildren, 6 stepgrandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, 12 foster great-grandchildren, and 3 brothers (Joseph, Kokomo, Ind.; Daniel, Canby, Oreg.; and Amos, Nappanee, Ind.). He was preceded in death by 4 small sons, 2 grandsons, one granddaughter, his parents, 5 brothers and 3 sisters. He died of a weak heart and obstruction of the bowels. He was bedfast for about five months but suffered little pain except for the last eleven hours of his life. He was ordained in the ministry on Nov. 3, 1902, and to the office of bishop on Nov. 23, 1923. Funeral services were held at the home on Feb. 20, conducted by Rudy Kauffman and Christ Miller in German, and Ira S. Johns in English, assisted by Perry Nisley, Harry Stutzman, Henry Miller and Albert Graber. Interment was made in the Nisley Cemetery.

Leatherman, John S., son of the late Jacob L. and Elizabeth (Swartz) Leatherman, was born Dec. 12, 1872, at Pipersville, Pa. He was married to Ellen M. Landis of Pipersville. After marriage he and his wife united with the Deep Run Mennonite Church. To this union 9 children were born; one was stillborn, Howard died in infancy, and Jacob, who was pastor of the Providence Mennonite Church, passed away in December 1953. Six are still living to mourn his departure (Elizabeth, Abner, Paul, Lydia-Mrs. Milton C. Keeler, all of Perkasie, Pa.; Sara-Mrs. Russel M. Moyer, Telford, Pa.; and Elsie-Mrs. Curtis K. Freed, Souderton, Pa.). He was a truck farmer most of his life, and attended the Blooming Glen Mennonite Church regularly over the years, where he taught Sunday-school classes as long as he was well. He retired about seven years ago and spent the last years at the home of his daughter and son-in-law (Mr. and Mrs. Curtis K. Freed). He passed away March 18, 1954; aged 81 y. 3 m. 6 d. Services were held at the Blooming Glen Mennonite Church on March 22. Joseph L. Gross preached the sermon, assisted by David Derstine and Menno Souder. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Lehman, John P., son of Peter J. and Elizabeth (Kipfer) Lehman, was born Feb. 1, 1871, near Kidron, Ohio; died at the home of his son (Mr. and Mrs. Simon J. Lehman) on April 22, 1954, from a heart attack; aged 83 y. 2 m. 21 d. He accepted Christ as her Saviour and joined the Mennonite Church in his youth. He remained faithful to his religious beliefs until the end of life. He was a lover of music and enjoyed singing. He composed a song entitled, "Saviour, Lead Me all the Way." He married Mary Zuercher on Dec. 14, 1893. They were occupied in farming in this community all their lives. In 1935 they sold their farm and moved to Kidron. On March 25, 1942, his companion preceded him in death. Surviving are 5 sons (Aaron, Apple Creek, Ohio; Simon, David, and Martin, of Kidron; and Weldon, Wooster, Ohio), 19 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, one brother (David P., of Apple Creek), 2 sisters (Anna Zuercher, Harrisonbuyrg, Va., and Sarah-Mrs. Simon W. Sommer, Millersburg, Ohio), also a large number of other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held April 24 at the Kidron Mennonite Church with Reuben Hofstetter, Isaac Zuercher, and Allen Bixler officiating. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Roth, Lydia, daughter of Joseph L. and Catherine (Zehr) Roth, was born near Baden, Ont., Sept. 29, 1883; passed away at St. Mary's Hospital, Kitchener, Ont., March 16, 1954; aged 70 y. 5 m. 15 d. She accepted Christ as her Saviour in her youth and united with the Maple View A. M. Church, Wellesley, Ont., and later when she moved to different communities she transferred her membership to the Croghan A. M. Church, Croghan, N. Y., and to the Steinman A. M. Church, Baden, Ont. She also served in the A. M. Children's Home in Maryland for some time. She was in ill health the last five years. Surviving are four brothers (Christian, Joseph, Benjamin, all of Wellesley, Ont.; and Samuel, Waterloo, Ont.), and 6 sisters (Mary-Mrs. Abraham Steinman, New Hamburg, Ont.; Katie-Mrs. Joseph B. Leis, Elrose, Sask.; Salome-Mrs. Emanuel Roth, New Hamburg, Ont.; Madeline-Mrs. William Kropf, Kitchener, Ont.; Sara and Edna, Waterloo, Ont.). Funeral services were held at the Steinman A. M. Church, Bade, Ont., in charge of Elmer Schwartzendtruber, assisted by Peter Nafziger. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Rushly, Chris W., son of the late Chris and Anna (Klopfenstein) Rushly, was born July 2, 1868, at Alsace Lorraine, France. At the age of 14 he, with his mother and sister (Emma) came to the United States, settling south of Holden, Mo. In his youth he accepted Christ as his personal Saviour and became a member of the Mennonite Church in which faith he remained until his death. On May 12, 1907, he was united in marriage with Susie Raber. This home was blessed with 3 sons (Rolla Alfred, Lawrence Ervin, and Ralph Daniel). With his family he moved near Garden City, Mo., in 1916. Recently he was stricken with pneumonia but was soon able to resume his duties. On March 30 he submitted to surgery from which he never recovered. He was called home on April 4, 1954; aged 85 y. 9 m. 2 d. Besides his parents, one sister preceded him in death. He is survived by his companion of nearly fifty years, his 3 sons and 6 grandchildren, all of the same community, a sister (Mrs. Emma Klopfenstein), and a niece and nephew, all of Downey, Calif., and many other relatives and friends. The funeral was held at the Sycamore Grove Mennonite Church near Garden City, Mo., on April 7. Frank Raber preached the sermon, assisted by S. S. Hershberger and John A. Kauffman. Interment was made in the Clearfork Cemetery.

Snyder, Linda Carol, was born Dec. 16, 1953, in Peoria, Ill.; departed this life April 21, 1954, at Proctor Hospital, following a brief illness of pneumonia; aged 4 m. 5 d. She was enrolled on the Ann Street Mennonite Church Cradle Roll. She leaves to mourn her departure, her parents (Robert R. and Shirley Huffman Snyder), 2 sisters (Barbara Jean and Sharon Snyder), a brother (Jess Russell), all of home; her grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Jess Snyder and Mrs. Emma Bouchez, all of Peoria), besides many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted at the Ann Street Mennonite Church in charge of the pastor, J. J. Hostetler, with interment in the Swan Lake Memory Garden.

Winder, Charles, was born in Wales, July 23, 1867; passed away at the Kitchener-Waterloo Hospital April 22, 1954; aged 86 y. 3 m. He was married to Emmaline Shirk in 1904. He is survived by his wife, one son (Harvey, of Orillia), 2 daughters (Bertha, of Orillia; and Ida-Mrs. Colin Saunders, of Toronto), and one grandchild. He was a faithful member of the First Mennonite Church since his reception on July 30, 1933, when he transferred his membership from the Erb Street congregation in Waterloo. Funeral services were held in the Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Parlor, April 24, with J. H. Hess officiating. Interment was made in the First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener.

Yoder, Jacob B., oldest son of Jerry and Elizabeth (Christner) Yoder, was born in Elkhart Co., Ind., Aug. 23, 1877; died at the Halstead Hospital of cancer, April 29, 1954; aged 76 y. 7 m. 28 d. On Feb. 10, 1904, he was united in marriage to Anna Miller. They were blessed with 7 children (Edwin, Polly-Mrs. Wm. E. Bontrager, Lizzie-Mrs. Orie Troyer, Susie-Mrs. Paul Schrock, Moses, Sarah, and Rachel-Mrs. Maurice Bontrager.) Surviving are his wife, Tobie, (her son by a former marriage), the 7 children, 30 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one brother (David), 2 sisters (Fannie and Susie), and many other relatives and friends. As a young man he became a Christian and united with the Amish Mennonite Church, and lived faithful to the Lord until death. He was one of the charter members of the Yoder Mennonite Church and showed an active interest in Christian service all his life. In 1892 he, with his parents, located near Yoder, Kans. At the time of their marriage, they moved to an adjoining farm on which they lived ever since, for over 50 years. Funeral services were held at the Yoder Mennonite Church, April 24, in charge of Harry A. Diener, assisted by John E. Wenger. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 20 - May 18, 1954 ­ page 477, 478

Bachman, Barbara, daughter of Joseph B. and Catherine Good, was born near Hopedale, Ill., Feb. 24, 1867; passed away at the home of her daughter, Martha Bachman, Metamora, Ill., April 20, 1954; aged 87 y. 1 m. 23 d. On March 6, 1890, she was united in marriage to Samuel Bachman, who preceded her in death on Jan. 10, 1925. To this union 2 sons and 2 daughters were born (Martha, of Metamora; Ida Stringer, and Roy, both of Lowpoint, Ill.; and William, deceased). Also surviving are 8 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and 4 sisters (Phoebe Birkey and Sarah Bellar, both of Eureka, Ill.; Katie Horsch, Fisher, Ill.; and Mary Birkey, Shickley, Nebr.). Her parents, 3 brothers and 2 sisters preceded her in death. She accepted Christ as her Saviour in her youth and remained a true Christian until death. Funeral services were held at the Roanoke Mennonite Church in charge of John Hostetler, Ezra Yordy, and Dan Hostetler. Burial was made in the Stuart Harmony Cemetery.

Beiler, Sarah, daughter of the late Isaac K. and Rebecca (Zook) Stoltzfus, was born May 30, 1872, near Lancaster City, Pa.; passed away April 1, 1954 at the home of her son, Harvey, Elverson, Pa.; aged 81 y. 10 m. 1 d. After suffering from precious anemia for some years and having received over thirty pints of blood by transfusions, death was finally due to a liver condition. She was a member of the Conestoga Mennonite Church. On Jan. 17, 1892, she was united in marriage to Levi Beiler, who preceded her in death by almost 21 years. Surviving are 12 children (Rebecca-Mrs. David L. Smoker, Atglen, Pa.; Mary-Mrs. Levi M. Stoltzfus, Levi, David, Isaac, and Stephen of Elverson, Pa.; Carrie-Mrs. David M. Kurtz, and Irvin of Mogantown, Pa.; Martha-Mrs. John M. Stoltzfus, Parkesburg, Pa.; Fannie-Mrs. Jonas K. Yoder, Boyertown, Pa.; Harvey, with whom she resided; and Sadie, a missionary in Asucion, Paraguay), 55 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and 3 sisters (Mrs. Katie Stoltzfus, Intercourse, Pa.; Mrs. Fannie Allgyer, Monterey, Pa.; and Mrs. Rebecca Yoder, Long Beach, Calif.). One daughter and two sons died in infancy. Services were held at the Conestoga Mennonite Church, April 5, in charge of C. J. Kurtz and Ira Kurtz. Interment was made in the near-by Mast Cemetery.

Hartzler, John Y., son of the late Menno S. and Mary (King) Hartzler, was born Oct. 3, 1878; passed away at his home near Belleville, Pa., April 17, 1954; aged 75 y. 6 m. 14 d. He is survived by his wife, Fannie Kauffman Hartzler, 2 daughters (Mary Dumm and Mildred Renno, of Belleville, Pa.), and a sister (Mrs. Sadie Peachey, also of Belleville). He was a charter member of the Rockville Mennonite Church near Belleville. Funeral services were held at the home, April 20, in charge of Raymond R. Peachey, assisted by Aaron Mast and Jacob Weirich. Burial was made in the Allensville Mennonite Cemetery.

Kalin, Joyce Marie, infant daughter of Edward and Ella Mae (Shireman) Kalin, Ontario, Calif., was born April 26, 1954, and passed away the following day. Surviving besides her parents are her grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. James Shireman, Ontario, Calif.; and Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Kalin, Riverside, Calif.). Graveside services were held April 27 in charge of Sherman Maust.

King, Elba Lee, son of John W. and Eliza (Bontrager) King, was born Nov. 20, 1877, near West Liberty, Ohio; passed away at Mary Ruttan Hospital, Bellefontaine, Ohio, April 20, 1954; aged 76 y. 5 m. His death came after a brief illness of only 10 days. On Dec. 21, 1899, he was united in marriage with Elsie Yoder. To this union were born 5 children (Mabel-Mrs. Paul P. King, of West Liberty; Freda-Mrs. Carl Slonecker, Bellefontaine, Ohio; Margaret, at home; Winfred, of West Liberty, and Herbert of Bellefontaine). He is also survived by his companion, a sister (Mrs. George Dowell, of Bellefontaine), a brother (Leon, of West Liberty), 12 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. He joined the South Union Mennonite Church as a young man and was a faithful member until the time of his death. During the last years of his life, and until the day when he was stricken with his fatal illness, he was employed at the Maple Drive Dairy in West Liberty. Funeral services at the South Union Mennonite Church were in charge of Stanley Shenk, with Wayne North and Richard Hostetler assisting. Interment was made in the South Union Cemetery.

King, Mary Ann, daughter of Jeff and Mary Knepp, was born in Logan County, Ohio, Jan. 27, 1879; died suddenly at the Solomonson Rest Home, April 22, 1954; aged 75 y. 2 m. 26 d. Death was due to a heart ailment. She was preceded in death by her husband, 2 children, who died in infancy, and a sister (Mrs. Ella Thoman). She was a member of the South Union Mennonite Church. Funeral services were held at the Troyer-Lynn Funeral Home in West Liberty April 25, in charge of Stanley Shenk. Interment was made in the Yoder Cemetery near West Liberty, Ohio.

McCarter, James R., was born in North Carolina in 1858; died April 2, 1954; aged 95 y. In 1884, he was married to Mary Jane Nelson, who departed this life in 1947. To this union were born 7 children, of whom only one son (Walter C., Purvis, Miss.) survives. Also surviving are 6 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. He was a resident of Sarasota, Fla., since 1911. He was received into fellowship with the Pinecraft Mennonite congregation in 1950. Funeral services were conducted at the Pinecraft Mennonite Church, April 4, by R. W. Benner, assisted by Otho B. Shenk, and J. M. Nissley. Interment was made in Rosemary Cemetery, Sarasota.

Risser, Martha E., (Mattie), daughter of Pre. Jacob H. and Fanny (Eby) Risser, was born Oct. 16, 1872, in Washington Co., Md.; died April 18, 1954, at the Mennonite Old People's Home, near Maugansville, Md., where she had been a guest since 1941; aged 81 y. 6 m. 2d. Aunt Mattie, as she was known by both old and young, spent about half her years in total blindness, her eyesight having failed in her youth. She did not enjoy good health as most of us do, but she bore her affliction with much patience. She possessed a kind, sympathetic Christian personality. She was a lifelong member of Reiff's Mennonite Church. She is survived by 2 brothers (Benjamin E., Hagerstown, Md., and Amos E., Greencastle, Pa.), and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at Reiff's Mennonite Church, April 21, conducted by Moses K. Horst and Stanley H. Martin. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Sensenig, Barbara N., daughter of the late Isaac and Barbara Martin, was born Nov. 1, 1891; passed away Jan. 21, 1954; aged 62 y. 2 m. 22 d. On Jan. 4, 1912, she was united in marriage to C. E. Sensenig. To this union were born 2 sons and one daughter. One son (Mervin) and the daughter (Helen) preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband, one son (Carl), 2 grandsons, and 3 brothers (Horace N., East Earl, Pa.; Isaac N., and Martin Y., Blue Ball, Pa.). One brother and one sister preceded her. She was a member of the Weaverland Mennonite Church. Funeral services were held at Weaverland, Jan. 25, conducted by John Burkholder, Mahlon Witmer, and Alvin Martin. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Stoltzfus, Elaine Marie, infant daughter of Stephen and Almeda Stoltzfus, was born prematurely, April 4, 1954, and died immediately. Burial was made in the Conestoga Mennonite Cemetery, April 7. Graveside services were conducted by Luke G. Stoltzfus.

Troyer, Levi S., was born Nov. 17, 1870, in Howard Co., Ind.; passed away April 15, 1954, after an illness of 12 weeks; aged 83 y. 4 m. 28 d. He is survived by 5 children, 33 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and one brother (Seth, Goshen, Ind.). He accepted Jesus as his Saviour in 1889 and united with the Amish Mennonite Church. On Jan. 1, 1891, he was married to Savilla Miller, who preceded him on May 10, 1948. They lived in matrimony 57 y. 4 m. 10 d. To this union were born 6 children (Samuel, John, Barbara-Mrs. Jacob Miller and Levi, or Mio, Mich.; Katie Ann-Mrs. Aden Kauffman, and Susanna-Mrs. Wilbur Yoder, of Middlebury, Ind.). One brother (Samuel), and one grandchild (daughter of Jacob and Barbara Miller) preceded him in death. They moved to Oscoda Co., Mich., on April 2, 1903, and lived on the same farm the rest of their days. He was ordained Oct. 16, 1910, as a minister and as a bishop on May 24, 1939. Funeral services were held at the Fairview Mennonite Church, April 18, in charge of Harvey Handrich and Ammon Troyer. Interment was made in the Kittle Cemetery.

Wolf, Newton L., son of Michael and Hester (Cable) Wolf, was born in Stephenson Co., Ill., April 16, 1870; passed away at his home April 24, 1954, following a brief illness after suffering a stroke on April 21; aged 84 y. 8d. He was married to Sadie Lapp on Dec. 25, 1902, at Dakota, Ill. Not long after his marriage he became a member of the Freeport Mennonite Church where he remained a member throughout life. Surviving are his wife, 2 sons (Milton and Paul, both of Freeport), one brother (James, Pecatonica, Ill.), and 5 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 5 brothers and 3 sisters. Funeral services were held at the Freeport Mennonite Church, April 27, with Richard Yordy and A. C. Good officiating. Burial was made in the church cemetery.

Yoder, Frank L., was born Feb. 13, 1896, near Garden City, Mo.; passed away at a hospital in Columbia, Mo., April 17, 1954; aged 58 y. 2 m. 4 d. Death was due to Hodgkin's disease. For at least 13 years he had been in poor health due to a lung condition. During these years he underwent surgery four times and was often hospitalized. In his youth he accepted Christ as his Saviour and became a member of Sycamore Grove Mennonite Church, and was a faithful member of the church. He was one of six children born to I. Z. and Sarah (Kauffman) Yoder. His marriage with Ann Nafziger, Pryor, Okla., occurred May 18, 1922, and they began life together near Garden City, Mo., later moving to their present home near Harrisonville, Mo. Surviving him, besides his companion, are 3 children (Maurice and Jean-Mrs. Joe Durbin, of Harrisonville; and Barbara, at home), 3 grandchildren, 3 brothers (Will, Chauncey and Roy), a sister (Edna), and many other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death were a daughter (Frances), his parents, and a brother (Melvin). Funeral services were conducted at the Sycamore Grove Mennonite Church April 20, in charge of Frank Raber, assisted by S. S. Hershberger and John A. Kauffman, with burial in the Clearfork Cemetery.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.

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Gospel Herald - Volume XLVII , Number 21 - May 25, 1954 ­ page 502, 503

Buckwalter, Marian Ruth, daughter of Robert and Faith (Steffy) Buckwalter, was born Sept. 22, 1953, at Wellsville, N. Y.; was called home April 6, 1954; aged 6 m. 15 d. After having tonsillitis and swollen glands for about a month, she contracted pneumonia, which resulted in death at the same hospital where she was born. Her parents and 6 brothers and sisters (Linda, Robert, Jr., Judith, Joyce, John, and Leon) miss her. Also surviving are her grandmother (Mrs. Martha Buckwalter, Lancaster, Pa.), her grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Noah Steffy, Leacock, Pa.), and her great-grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Benj. Denlinger, Lititz, Pa.) Funeral services were held at York's Corners Mennonite Church, April 9, conducted by Ivan Smoker, Harold Thomas, and Richard Buckwalter, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Burkholder, Andrew Levi, son of Levi M. and Ethel B. Burkholder, Phoenix, Ariz., was born prematurely March 18, 1954; died the same day. Besides his parents, he is survived by a sister (Elizabeth Ann) and his grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. William Boyer, Phoenix, Ariz., and Mr. and Mrs. Moses E. Burkholder, Middlefield, Ohio). Graveside services were held at the Rest Haven cemetery near Glendale, Ariz., by the pastor, Melvin L. Ruth.

Emenheiser, Reuben E., son of the late Benjamin and Elizabeth (Keller) Emenheiser, was born in York Co., Pa., Feb. 17, 1877; passed away at his home near Elizabethtown, Pa., April 1, 1954; after a lingering illness of a heart condition; aged 77 y. 1 m. 14 d. When a young man he came to Lancaster Co., Pa. On Dec. 23, 1900, he was married to Barbara S. Ginder, after which they together united with the Mennonite Church and remained faithful members until death. She passed away Dec. 18, 1929. To this union 7 children were born, 5 dying in infancy. Two grew to maturity, but the last one, Benjamin, died Feb. 6, 1953. On March 9, 1932, he married Katie B. Zimmerman. This union was blessed with one son, who also died at the age of 7 years. He is survived by his wife, 2 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, a brother (Frank, Quincy, Pa.), and a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at the Mt. Pleasant Brethren in Christ Church, April 5, by Grabill Wolgemuth and Noah Rissser. Paul Emenheiser, a nephew, had closing prayer. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Graber, Samuel J., son of the late John B. and Mary (Stoll) Graber, was born in Daviess Co., Ind., Dec. 14, 1899; died in an automobile accident at a grade crossing near his home, April 9, 1954; aged 54 y. 3 m. 25 d. On March 1, 1928, he was married to Caroline Kemp, who survives. To this union were born 3 sons and one daughter (James, who also met his death in the same accident; Ben, Indianapolis, Ind.; John and Mildred, at home). Also surviving are 3 brothers (Peter and Amos, of Loogootee; and Jacob, Odon, Ind.). Four sisters (Hannah, Lydia, Rebecca, and Leah) preceded him in death. In his young manhood he affiliated with the O. O. Amish Church. In recent years he transferred to the Amish Mennonite Church where he held his membership at the time of his death.

Graber, James, son of Samuel, Jr. and Caroline (Kemp) Graber, was born in Daviess Co., Ind., Jan. 2, 1930; died in an automobile accident, which also took the life of his father at a grade crossing near his home, April 9, 1954; aged 24 y. 3 m. 7 d. He is survived by his mother, 2 brothers and one sister (Ben, of Indianapolis, Ind.; John and Mildred, who live at home), his grandfather (Samuel Kemp, Loogootee, Ind.). 7 uncles and one aunt. He was baptized and received into church fellowship of the Berea Mennonite Church, where he held membership at the time of his death. A double funeral was held at the Berea Mennonite Church, Montgomery, Ind., April 11, conducted by David Graber, Wm. Yoder, and Edd P. Shrock, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Lehman, Salome, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Kreider) Buzzard, was born near Goshen, Ind., Nov. 21, 1872; died May 4, 1954, after having been confined to her bed for nearly five years; aged 81 y. 5 m. 13 d. In her early years she accepted Christ as her Saviour and united with the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, where she worshiped and served her Lord faithfully. On Nov. 20, 1892, she was united in marriage to Simeon Lehman, who preceded her in death Jan. 15, 1937. To this union were born 8 children (Howard, who died in infancy; Arthur, Wakarusa, Ind.; Ruth-Mrs. Enos Mumaw, Elkhart, Ind.; Hazel-Mrs. Floyd Weaver, Goshen, Ind.; Joseph, Archbold, Ohio; Edna-Mrs. William Kauffman, Mt. Ayr, Ind.; and Wilbur, Nappanee, Ind.). She is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and 2 brothers (Alph and John, Goshen, Ind.). Besides raising her own family, she also took into her home and cared for a number of other individuals at different times, and for various lengths of time. Services were held at the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church with Ralph R. Smucker and Peter B. Wiebe in charge. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Mast, Wilmer J., son of Isaac C. and Lydia (Stoltzfus) Mast, was born Nov. 4, 1924; passed away Sept. 8, 1953, in Lancaster General Hospital, two hours after being injured in an automobile accident; aged 28 y. 10 m. 4 d. He is survived by his parents, one sister (Elizabeth) and 2 brothers (John and Samuel). Funeral services were held at the Millwood Church, Sept. 11, in charge of Noah Hershey and LeRoy Stoltzfus.

Myers, Clara, daughter of the late Henry and Alma (Dollman) Weldy, was born June 2, 1888, near Wakarusa, Ind.; died at the Goshen Hospital, May 9, 1954; aged 65 y. 11 m. 7 d. On Dec. 29, 1906, she was married to Aaron Myers. To this union was born 7 sons and 3 daughters, all of whom survive (Mabel-Mrs. John Yoder, Elkhart, Ind.; Kenneth and Harold, New Paris, Ind.; Lowell, Jerome, Mich.; Roscoe, Bertha-Mrs. Ivan Martin, Forrest Robert, all of Goshen). Also surviving are 36 grandchildren, and the following brothers and sisters (Noah, Sarasota, Fla.; Cornelius, Anna-Mrs. Oliver Loucks, Emma Mullet and a foster sister, Della-Mrs. Mahlon Weaver, all of Wakarusa). One brother, one sister, and 4 grandchildren preceded her in death. She had been in failing health for the past 5 years, bedfast 3 weeks. Death was caused by complications. Early in youth she accepted Christ as her Saviour and united with the Mennonite Church, in which faith she died. Funeral services were held at the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church with Ralph R. Smucker and Peter B. Wiebe in charge. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery.

Nofziger, Levi, son of David and Barbara Nofziger, was born near Archbold, Ohio, Feb. 27, 1879**; departed this life at his home in Archbold, April 1, 1954, after a few hours' illness due to a heart attack; aged 84 y. 1 m. 4 d. On Dec. 8, 1892, he was united in marriage with Lizzie Riegsecker,* who passed away Dec. 15, 1939. To this union were born 4 sons and 2 daughters (William, of Archbold; Ira, Wauseon, Ohio; Cora-Mrs. Menno Maust and Herma-Mrs. Oscar Gautsche, both of Archbold; Floyd of Wauseon; and Jesse, Goshen, Ind.). His passing away is mourned by his children, especially by his daughter Cora who for the last 31 years after the death of her husband cared for her parents; also 23 grandchildren, 17 grandchildren, and 3 sisters (Lizzie-Mrs. Simeon Grieser, Emma-Mrs. Solomon Short, and Sarah, all of this vicinity). Besides a host of other realtives and friends. There preceded him in death his companion, one grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 2 brothers (Jacob and Samuel), and 2 sisters (Mary-Mrs. Jacob Short and Katie-Mrs. Samuel Sauder). In his youth he accepted Christ as his personal Saviour united with the Central Mennonite Church where he remained faithful. His place was seldom vacant, and he was present at the services the last Sunday of his life. Funeral services were held at the Central Mennonite Church in charge of Jesse Short, P. L. Frey, and Henry Wyse.
*[Note: In Lizzie Nofziger's obituary  in Gospel Herald, Feb. 1, 1940 her name was spelled 'Reigsecker' - used in maiden name index - tlm]
**[Note: He was likely born in 1870. This would figure out right for the age given and would make him about the same age as his wife - tlm]

Oswald, Sevilla, daughter of Simon D. and Mary (Keim) Troyer, was born in Holmes Co., Ohio, March 11, 1880; died April 24, 1954; aged 74 y. 1 m. 13 d. She was in ill health for two years, having been bedfast for the last two months. On Jun 2, 1897, she was united in marriage to Albert W. Oswald who preceded her in death Match 10, 1937. To this union were born 3 sons (Archie, at home; Oscar, of Farmerstown; and Woodrow of Bunker Hill), and 2 daughters (Mrs. Russell Sheneman, of Sugarcreek; and Mrs. Clifford Glison, of the home). She leaves to mourn her departure her 5 children, 18 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and 2 sisters (Mrs. Adam Oswald of Berlin; and Mrs. Annas Miller, of Elkhart, Ind.). One brother and one sister preceded her in death. She united with the Walnut Creek Mennonite Church in her early youth and remained a member there until ten years ago, when she transferred her membership to the Berlin Church. Funeral services were held at the Berlin Church, in charge of D. D. Miller and Simon Sommer, with interment in the Walnut Creek Cemetery.

Saltzman, Barbara, daughter of Joseph and Christina (Eicher) Stalter, was born Feb. 15, 1868, near Gridley, ill.; passed away at her home in Flanagan, Ill., May 7, 1954, after a lingering illness of more than three years; aged 87 y. 2 m. 22 d. On Nov. 10, 1887, she was united in marriage with Peter Saltzman, who preceded her in death Nov. 10, 1921. To this union were born 7 children, 2 of whom preceded her death in infancy. The following survive (Mrs. Roy Hartzler, Minonk, Ill.; Clara, at home; Mrs. Will Yordy, and Mrs. Noah Eigsti, of Flanagan; and Raymond, of Minonk). Besides her children, she leaves 18 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one brother (John Stalter, of Gridley). She became a member of the Waldo Mennonite Church in her youth, remaining a faithful member through life and having been a member of this church for about seventy years. Funeral services were held at the Waldo Mennonite Church in charge of J. D. Hartzler, assisted by E. J. Stalter. Interment was made in the Waldo Cemetery.

Shetler, Daniel Nafszinger, son of the late Lewis and Lydia (Nafszinger) Shetler, was born June 10, 1880, at Hollsopple, Pa.; died April 16, 1954, at the home of his daughter, Ruth; aged 73 y. 10 m. 6 d. In May, 1908, he was married to Lucy Weaver, who preceded him in death in July, 1925. Surviving are 3 children (Clayton, Hollsopple, Pa.; Ruth, at home; and Dwight, Johnstown, Pa.), one sister (Mary Shenk, Atglen, Pa.), and 8 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter (Erma) and 2 brothers (Jacob and William). He became a member of the Mennonite Church in 1907, and remained faithful until the end, holding his membership with the Kaufman congregation, where he served as a Sunday-school teacher for many years. Funeral services were conducted at the Kaufman Church, April 19, in charge of Harry Y. Shetler, Harry C. Blough, and Irvin M. Holsopple. Interment was made in the Kaufman Cemetery.

Stauffer, Minnie M., second daughter of Abram and Lizzie Hernley, was born near Manheim, Pa., July 11, 1887; died near West Linn, Oreg., of cancer, April 17, 1954; aged 66 y. 9 m. 6 d. On Oct. 10, 1911, she was married to Elmer E. Stauffer. She leaves to mourn her departure, her husband and the following children (Mrs. Mary Menchel, Mrs. Martha Johnson and Paul, Portland, Oreg.; Mrs. Grace Hatfield; Mrs. Clara Griffiths, and Chester, near Portland, Oreg.; David, West Linn, Oreg.; and Wesley, Prospect, Oreg.), also grandchildren, and friends. Funeral services were held in Oregon City Funeral Parlor with James Bucher and N. A. Lind officiating. Burial was made in the Hopewell Mennonite Church Cemetery, near Hubbard, Oreg., of which congregation she was a member.

Yoder, Sharon Lee, daughter of Rollin and Edna (Shantz) Yoder, Eaglesham, Alta., was born March 28, 1954; passed away April 24, 1954; aged 27 days. Her death was caused by pneumonia. On this earth she leaves her father and mother, one brother (Clifford), a sister (Yvonne), and her twin sister (Shirley), her grandmother (Mrs. C. D. Yoder, Windom, Kans.), and grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Sam Shantz, Geneva, Nebr.), 5 uncles, 5 aunts, and other relatives and friends. Funeral services were in charge of D. D. Brenneman, assisted by Loyal Roth.

Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.


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