Burkey, Gene Edward, son of Burdette and Mary (Stutzman) Burkey, of near Milford, Nebr., was born Oct. 2, 1946; met his death Aug. 1, 1956; aged 9 y. 10 m. 1 d. He and his brother Jerry were taking feed to the pasture when the tractor hit a wet ditch and overturned upon him, crushing his chest and causing instant death. Gene was an average boy, and yet unusual. He appreciated the flowers, birds, trees, and all of nature. He was always happy to meet his grandparents and aunts, uncles, and whoever happened to enter the home. Surviving are his parents, one brother (Jerry), 2 sisters (Joan and Kathy), his grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. D. J. Stutzman and Mr. and Mrs. Edd Burkey, of Milford), and many other relatives and friends. Services were held at the East Fairview Mennonite Church near Milford, Nebr., on Aug. 3, with Ammon Miller, Oliver Roth, and Sterling Stauffer officiating. Burial was made in the church cemetery.
Cressman, Amanda Ethel, wife of Bishop Curtis C. Cressman, was born near Pulaski, Pa., April 29, 1893; passed away to be with her Lord on Aug. 11, 1956; aged 63 y. 3m. 13 d. She was the oldest daughter of the late Jacob and Lydia (Kauffman) Byler. During 1916-18, while attending Hesston College, Bro. Cressman met her and on Jan. 25, 1919, they were married. After her marriage she came to Ontario where he husband served as pastor of the Biehn Mennonite Church, and for 37 years she filled and vital place in his ministry in the congregation and conference, as well as faithfully serving in the home community as she saw spiritual need. She was instant in prayer, constantly remembering her immediate family, and did not fail to see the needs of the wider circle of relatives and loved ones who were lost. Her prayer ministry reached lives around the world. She was very conscious of her shortcomings and failures, realizing her need of the Father's forgiveness, daily. In her life as wife and mother she endeavored to exemplify the will of the Lord and to uphold the principles of His Word and the church she loved. She had great joy in seeing her children yield their lives to Christ. When her daughters, Ruth, and Elsie consecrated their lives to work in Arkansas and Eastern Africa, she was happy. Three children preceded her in death (Paul and Lydia in infancy and Ruth Strubhar in 1955). Surviving are her husband, a son (Howard, New Hamburg), 2 daughters (Lillian-Mrs. Gordon Bean, New Dundee, Ont.; and Elsie, Tanganyika, Africa, serving in the mission for lepers), 9 grandchildren, 3 sisters (Mary-Mrs. Amos Yoder, Aberdeen, S. Dak.; Alice-Mrs. Chris Miller, Linville, Va.; and Elsie-Mrs. Roy Frey, Clarence Center, N. Y.; Archie and Raymon, both of Lagrange, Ind.), and 3 aunts. During the last months of her life, she had a longing to go Home and was active in making preparation to the end. Funeral services were conducted at the Biehn Church on Aug. 14 in charge of Moses H. Roth and Moses Baer. Burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.
Geiser, Nathan Alden, son of Allen and Orpha (Gerber) Geiser, was born near Kidron, Ohio, Aug. 12, 1935; passed away Aug. 14, 1956, at the home of his parents after a one-year illness of cancer; aged 21y. 2 d. During his long illness, he bore his suffering with patience. When he recalled his illness was incurable, he expressed his desire to slip away to his Lord and Master whom he had accepted at the age of twelve, as his personal Saviour. He is survived by his parents, 7 brothers (Amos, Gilbert, Sylvester, Peter, Daniel, Frank, and Ray, all of the home), 2 sisters (Esther, who came home recently from nurses' training to care for him, and Doris Ann, of the home), his grandfathers (Peter F. Geiser, Apple Creek, Ohio, and Peter P. Gerber, Dalton, Ohio), and many other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held on Aug. 17 at the Kidron Church in charge of Reuben Hofstetter, Allen Bixler, and Isaac Zuercher, with burial in the church cemetery.
Miller, Saloma, daughter of John and Barbara (Grieser) Stauffer, was born Jan. 16, 1876, near Gridley, Ill.; passed away Aug. 14, 1956, at the Milford Rest Home, Milford, Nebr., following a stroke; aged 80 y. 7m. 28 d. At the age of 3 years she moved to Milford where she grew up, was baptized as a member of the East Fairview Mennonite Church, and was a faithful member until death. She was united in marriage to Andrew S. Miller, Middlebury, Ind., on Dec. 21, 1903. He preceded her in death Jan. 3, 1947. To this union were born 4 sons and one daughter. Surviving are these children (Orvil E., Milford; Harry D., Nampa, Idaho; and Alta-Mrs. Sylvan Yoder, Oxford, Iowa), 21 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 3 brothers and one sister (Henry, John, Chris, of Milford, Nebr., and Phoebe Lauber, Shickley, Nebr.), and a host of other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her husband, 2 sons, and a brother. During the last year and a half she made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Yoder, at Oxford, Iowa. On May 11, she went to Milford for a visit and took sick, and was unable to return. Funeral services were held at the East Fairview Church Milford, Nebr., in charge of Ammon Miller, Oliver Roth, and Sterling Stauffer, with burial in the church cemetery.
Norton, Jennie, was born Aug. 29, 1877, in Petersburg, Pa.; passed away Aug. 10, 1956; aged 78 y. 11m. 12 d. She with her husband (who preceded her in death) united with the First Mennonite Church in Johnstown in 1950. Surviving are 3 sons, all living in Johnstown. Funeral services were held on Aug. 13 with J. E. Gingrich officiating.
Slabaugh, David H., son of the late Moses J. and Martha (Yoder) Slabaugh, was born Nov. 9, 1912, near Kokomo, Ind.; went to be with his Lord following a heart attack at his home near Topeka, Ind., on July 30, 1956; aged 43 y. 8 m. 21 d. On March 21, 1942, he was united in marriage to Verna Hooley. Their home was blessed with 5 children. One son was stillborn. He is survived by his wife, twin sons and 2 daughters (Robert Dean and Richard Gene, Ruth Elaine and Rebecca Jo), his stepmother (Mrs. Anna Slabaugh, Millersburg, Ind.), 5 brothers and 2 sisters (Roman, Milford, Ind.; Jacob, Goshen, Ind.; Katie-Mrs. Jonas J. Miller, Dundee, Ohio; Daniel, Detroit, Mich.; Henry, Vassar, Mich.; Anna-Mrs. David L. Haarer, Albion, Mich.; Elva, Northville, Mich.), and a stepsister (Amanda-Mrs. Perry J. Miller, Topeka, Ind.). He was preceded in death by 5 sisters and one brother. In the spring of 1933 he was received as a member of the Maple Grove Mennonite Church. Until his passing he was faithful in serving his Lord and the church in whatever way he was asked. At the time of his death he was serving as a Sunday-school teacher at the Wawasee Lakeside Chapel, 20 miles from Topeka, where he and his family worshiped. Funeral services held in the Maple Grove Church on Aug. 2 were conducted by Herbert Yoder, Ellis Croyle, C. Norman Kraus, and Edwin J. Yoder. Interment was made in the Maple Grove Cemetery.
Transcribed by Ruth Slabaugh Schrock, Indiana
Yoder, Lizzie, daughter of John L. and Mary (Nold) Yoder, was born near Columbiana, Ohio, Sept. 8, 1891; died of complications in the same home in which she was born, Aug. 19, 1956; aged 64 y. 11m. 11 d. She was baptized and received into the Midway Mennonite Church on Oct. 9, 1904, and retained her membership until death. Surviving are 3 sisters and 3 brothers (Ada, at home; Mrs. Abram Wenger, Fentress, Va.; Mrs. Dan Martin, Columbiana, Ohio; Alvin, at home; Paul Columbiana; and Elmer, Biglerville, Pa.). Her parents and one sister preceded her in death. Services were held at the Midway Church on Aug. 22 in charge of S. A. Yoder and Ernest Martin.
Zook, Glen M., son of Daniel H. and Lizzie M. (Zook), was born Feb.3, 1942; passed away June 22, 1956, t the hospital in Philadelphia, where he was under observation; aged 14 y. 4m. 19 d. Death was due to a heart ailment. Besides his parents he is survived by two brothers (Lee James and Loyd Thomas) and one sister (Mary Ellen), all at home; his grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Steven W. Zook and Mrs. Israel B. Zook), all of Belleville, Pa. He accepted Christ as his Saviour four years ago and united with the Allensville Mennonite Church, where he was a faithful member and a ready witness for his Lord. Funeral services were held at the Allensville Church on June 25, in charge of Raymond R. Peachey and Elrose Hartzler, with interment in the Alllensville Mennonite Cemetery.
Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.
Fretz, Joseph C., son of Manasseh and Mary Ann (Cober) Fretz, was born Sept. 25, 1885; died Aug. 22, 1956; aged 70 y. 10 m. 28 d. He died as he had lived, active in the Lord's work. He was a member of the Shantz Mennonite Church, serving as deacon since 1953. He served many years as secretary of the Ontario Mission Board, Conference historian, and manager of the Golden Rule Book Store, Kitchener. He was a diligent promoter of summer Bible school and child welfare work. He served his Lord faithfully and well. In 1918 he was married to Martha Ressor, who survives with 2 sons (John, Salem, Oreg.; Walter, Toronto, Ont.), 2 daughters (Ruth-Mrs. Cyril Gingrich, Toronto, and Pauline-Mrs. Clayton Cressman Moorefield). Also surviving are 5 brothers (Samuel, Oren, Lewis, Fred and Edward) and 4 sisters (Mrs. Chris Smith, Mrs. Elvin Snyder, Mrs. Orval Weber, and Mrs. Vernice Hoover), and 6 grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Aug. 26 at the First Mennonite Church, Kitchener, and Wideman Mennonite Church, Markham, with S. B. Martin, L. H. Witmer, A. J. Metzler, Emerson McDowell, A. D. Grove, and Elmer Burkholder participating. Burial was made at the Wideman Cemetery.
DePaepe, Sophia, daughter of Albert and Susan Dillon, Patton, Pa., died at Arlington, Va., Aug. 23, 1956; aged 60 years. Her husband, Henry DePaepe, preceded her in death many years ago. She is survived by 2 sons (Paul, Champaign, Ill.; and Louis, Arlington, Va.), and the following brothers and sisters (Mahlon and Boyd, Lawton, Va.; Kyle, Scottdale, Pa.; Louis, Accokeek, Md.; Floella-Mrs. Robert Booterbaugh, and Elizabeth-Mrs. Harold Klinefelter, both of Arlington, Va.). She united with the Scottdale Mennonite Church in 1924, but was a member of the Woodridge Mennonite Church, Washington, D. C., at the time of her death. Funeral services were held at the Stevens Funeral Home, Patton, Pa., on Aug. 26 in charge of John L. Horst. Interment in the Fairview Cemetery.
Graber, Joel, son of Sam and Katie (Knepp) Graber, was born Nov. 14, 1898, in Daviess Co., Ind.; passed away at the St. Joseph Hospital, Kokomo, Ind., Aug. 11, 1956, of a coronary occlusion; aged 57 y. 10 m. 28 d. He accepted Christ as his Saviour and was a faithful member of the Howard-Miami Mennonite Church. On March 8, 1923, he was married to Anna Marner. He is survived by his wife, 4 sons (Sam, Kokomo, Ind.; Joseph, Goshen; Ray, Spencerville; Jay, Peru), 2 daughters (Mrs. Luellen Troyer, Mio, Mich.; Mrs. Evan Higgins, Kokomo), 12 grandchildren, 5 brothers (Abe and Simon, Middlebury, Ind.; Amos and Joe, Arthur, Ill.; Henry, Plain City, Ohio), 4 sisters (Mrs. Martha Kaufman and Mrs. Amanda Stutzman, Arthur, Ill.; Mrs. Mary Otto, Uniontown, Ohio, and Mrs. Sarah Miller, Middlefield, Ohio), and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the Howard-Miami Church with Emanuel J. Hochstedler and Joe Neuhouser in charge Burial was made in the Christner Cemetery.
Hartman, Clifford Dale, son of Lewis and Ilse (Schroeder) Hartman, was born Aug. 15, 1956, at the Doctors' Hospital, Washington, D. C.; died at the Children's Hospital, Washington, D. C., Aug. 22, 1956. Clifford had undergone surgery on August 19. He is survived by his parents and grandparents (Mrs. Margaret Heyer, Berlin, Germany and Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Hartman, Harrisonburg, Va.). Funeral services were held Aug. 23 at the Gasch Funeral Home with John R. Martin in charge. Burial was made at the Fort Lincoln Cemetery.
Herr, Mary Ann, daughter of Isaac and Mary (Leaman) Herr, was born June 18, 1870; died Aug. 17, 1956; aged 86 y. 1 m. 30 d. She had been in ill health for some time. She was a lifetime resident of Lampeter, Pa., and a member of Mellinger's Mennonite Church. Surviving are a sister (Emma-Mrs. A. D. Metzler, Holtwood, Pa.), and one brother (Benjamin L. Herr, Lampeter), with whom she resided. Services on Aug. 20 at the Herr's Funeral Home were in charge of Elmer Martin, David Landis and Harry Lefever, with burial in Mellinger's Cemetery.
Hook, Larry Maurice and Harry Michael, twin sons of Joseph and Doris (Birky) Hook, were born Aug. 5, 1956, in Valparaiso, Ind.; died Aug. 6, 1956. Surviving are the parents, grandparents (Ben and Leah Birky, Kouts, Ind.), and a number of uncles and aunts. Graveside services were conducted at the Hopewell Mennonite Church Cemetery by Emanuel Birky.
Hostetter, Emma G., daughter of Henry and Catherine (Garber) Reist, was born near Florin, Pa., on April 4, 1866; entered into rest July 15, 1956; aged 90 y.3 m. 11 d. On Nov. 5, 1885, she was married to Henry N. Hostetter, who preceded her in death on Dec. 9, 1946. A son (Christian) passed away in 1952, and two sons in infancy. Surviving are 3 daughters (Ella R., and Fannie R.-Mrs. Jonas Bear Brubaker, both of Mt. Joy, and Katharine H.-Mrs. Harry C. Swarr, East Petersburg), 4 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. She was a member of the Mt. Joy Mennonite Church, where she attended regularly as long as she was able. Funeral services held July 18 at the Mt. Joy Church were in charge of Henry E. Lutz, Henry W. Frank, and Henry F. Garber. Interment was made in Kraybill's Cemetery.
Kanagy, George W., eldest son of Levi and Rebecca (Knepp) Kanagy, was born Aug. 19, 1871, passed from this life on Aug. 20, 1956; aged 85 y.1d., after a period of declining health. He died at the Mary Rutan Hospital, Bellefontaine, Ohio, where he was taken after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage. He was united in marriage to Annie M. Detweiler on Dec. 15, 1897. She preceded him in death on April 18, 1930. To this union were born 5 children (Willis, Manitou Springs, Colo.; Sadie-Mrs. Boyd King, Bellefontaine; Forrest, Gettysburg, Pa.; Nelson and Earl of West Liberty , and a host of relatives and friends. He became a member of the Mennonite Church early in life and remained a faithful member at Oak Grove until his death. Funeral services were held Aug. 23, at the Oak Grove Church, with burial in the Oak Grove Cemetery in charge of Abram Kaufman and Edward Stoltzfus.
King, Benjamin John, son of David H. and Barbara (Zook) King, was born in Minonk, Ill. Nov. 12, 1870; departed this life on Aug. 7, 1956; aged 85 y. 8m. 26 d. As a youth he moved with his parents to Kansas. He was married to Irean Lighthall on May 27, 1894. She preceded him in death on Aug. 7, 1937. To this union were born 3 sons (Paul, Irvine, who died at the age of 9 years; Roy J., Haddonfield, N. J.; and Lloyd B., Helena, Okla.). He also leaves 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, one brother (Emanuel, Hutchinson, Kans.), and a host of other relatives and friends. In his youth he united with the Mennonite Church and remained a faithful member He retained his membership in the Hesston Mennonite Church. In his later years he spent much of his time writing and reading, having read the Bible through many times; also hundreds of others books. As long as his health permitted he took great joy and an active part in the singing in the church. Most of his married life was spent in Harvey and Pawnee counties, Kans. The last 16 years were spent with his son in Oklahoma. Funeral services were held Aug. 9 at the Pennsylvania Church near Hesston, Kans., with Earl Buckwalter officiating. Burial was made in the nearby cemetery.
Miller, Letha Gail, infant daughter of LeRoy and Ruth (Stutzman) Miller, was born at Weatherford, Okla., Aug. 19, 1956; departed this life five days later, Aug. 24. Her death was due to a blood condition. Surviving are her parents, a brother, and a sister, her grandparents (Mrs. Ida Miler and Mr. and Mrs. S. E. Stutzman), and many other relatives. A brother, Eldon Ray, preceded her in death. Funeral services were held Aug. 26 at the Pleasant View Mennonite Church, near Hydro, Okla., by John Slagell and Alva Swartzendruber, with interment in nearby cemetery.
Sala, David Ray, son of Ammon and Carrie (Thomas) Sala, Sr., was born Sept. 8, 1941, at Johnstown, Pa.; died at his home on Aug. 5, 1956, at Hollsopple, Pa.; aged 14 y.11 m. 3 d. He was a cerebral palsy invalid since birth, but the immediate cause of his death was pneumonia. Besides his parents he is survived by 2 half brothers (Robert P. and Ammon, Jr., Hollsopple), one half sister at home, and his grandmother (Alice Sala). One half sister preceded him in death. Funeral services were conducted at the Stahl Church by Sanford G. Shetler and David Alwine, with burial in the adjoining cemetery. Many questions concerning affliction area unanswered in life, but a loving Father does all things well. David with his limitations had a very sweet personality. Everything that was possible to provide for him in the way of care was done; yet as the parents expressed themselves "the care of David requited in life is but a sweet remembrance of him in death."
Wenger, Timothy J., son of Jab and Hannah (Brenneman) Wenger, was born near Harrisonburg, Va., on Feb. 18, 1864; passed away at his home near Fentress, Va., on Feb. 11, 1956; aged 91 y. 11m. 23 d. Death was preceded by an illness of about 5 weeks, up to which time he had enjoyed good health, and had been a regular attendant of church and Sunday school each Sunday. In 1886 he was married to Mary Powell. To this union were born 2 sons and 8 daughters. He was preceded in death by his wife in 1923, and 2 daughters. Surviving are one sister (Mrs. Katie Brunk, Denbigh, Va.), 8 children (Anna-Mrs. Moses Hertzler, and Mollie-Mrs. Sam Brunk, of Denbigh; Mrs. Lessie Hershberger , Harrisonburg, Va.; Etta-Mrs. Ernest Miller, Mrs. Lula Lehman, Mrs. Ida Shaddinger, Roy and Powell, all of Fentress), 34 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends. He accepted Christ in his youth and in 1900 was ordained deacon of the Springdale Mennonite Church in Augusta County. He also taught school a number of years in the Greenmount vicinity, and in Augusta County. In 1908 he moved with his family to Fentress and served as deacon of the Mt. pleasant Church, where he remained a faithful worker and regular attendant. At the time of his death he was the oldest ordained man in the Mennonite Church and had served longest as deacon. Funeral services were conducted in the Mt. Pleasant Church by Joseph R. Driver and Clayton Bergey, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Yoder, Rhoda Susan, daughter of Bert and Susie (Bontrager) Yoder, was born on Feb. 1, 1937, near Greenwood, Del.; passed away on July 28, 1956, at the Delaware Hospital, Wilmington, Del., after an automobile accident in which she received a skull fracture and brain injuries from which she never regained consciousness; aged 19 y. 5m. 27 d. Rhoda was born with an imperfect heart which left her unable to do many things most children do. Through all her suffering and sickness she always had a cheerful smile and was a real testimony to her many friends. Her life was a miracle to doctors and her family accepts her death also as the hand of God. At the age of 13 she underwent a heart operation since which time she lived a normal life. This last year she enjoyed her work as nurse aide. Early in youth she accepted Christ and was baptized at the age of 19 as a member of the Greenwood Conservative Mennonite Church. Surviving are her parents, the following brothers and sisters (Ruth, Grantsville, Md.; Edward, Meyersdale, Pa.; Irene-Mrs. Jonas Maust, Grantsville, Md.; Martha-Mrs. Norman Yoder, and Mary-Mrs. Ivan Miller, Greenwood, Del.; Clayton, Grantsville, Md.), and a number of other relatives. Funeral services at the Greenwood Conservative Church were conducted by Nevin Bender and Alvin Mast, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.
Easter, Clarence M., Jr., son of Velma Easter and the late Clarence Easter, Sr., of Masontown, Pa., died in West Haven, Conn., Aug. 30, 1956, at the age of 18 y. 10 m. 13 d. Besides his mother he leaves the following brothers and sisters: Le Roy, Alfretta, Mary, and Carmen. Funeral services were held in the Masontown Mennonite Church where Clarence had united as a member at the age of nine. Burial was made in the Greendale Cemetery in charge of Paul M. Roth.
Emmett, Melzelda, daughter of Edward Phillips and Charlotte Trotter, was born at Winn City, Ill., Feb. 1, 1875; died at her home near Norfork, Ark., Aug. 10, 1956; aged 81y. 6m. 9 d. She was married four times: first to Wm. Robert Reed, then to T. J. Pinkston, third to James Enos Young, and last to J. W. Emmett, all of whom preceded her in death. She is survived by 5 children (Mrs. Lottie Parnell, Norfork, Ark; E. J. Pinkston, Mountain Home, Ark.; Charles G. Pinkston, Long Beach, Calif.; Mrs. Nettie Pool, Culp, Ark., and Raymond Curtis Young, Hot Springs, Ark.), one brother (Charles W. Trotter, Mountain View, Ark.), 17 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Since she was the type of person that showed herself friendly and was continually helpful to those in need, she is also survived by an unusually large number of personal friends. She was a member of the Bethel Springs Mennonite Church, Culp, Ark. Funeral services were in charge of Frank Horst were at the Galatia Methodist Church near Norfork, Ark., and burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Gahman, Daniel G., son of the late Samuel and Mary (Gross) Gahman, was born in Plumstead Twp., Pa., on Nov. 17, 1878; died July 26, 1956; aged 77 y. 8m. 9 d. He was united in marriage to Maggie Histand on Jan. 18, 1902. To this union one son (Melvin) was born. In 1939 they moved to their son's home in Bedminster Twp., where he remained until the Lord called him home. He suffered a heart attack 12 years ago, but had been in fair health since that time and had been working at the carpenter trade and in his repair shop. He accepted Christ as his Saviour in his youth and took great interest in the church. On Oct. 20, 1927, he was ordained to the office of deacon where he served faithfully until the end. On July 24 he was taken to the Grandview Hospital, Sellersville, and passed away July 26. Surviving are his wife, his son, 2 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and 3 brothers (John G., Souderton, Samuel G., Dublin, and Abram G., Perkasie). He will be missed by the Deep Run congregation as a deacon and wise counselor. Funeral services were held July 30 at the Deep Run Church in charge of Erwin Nace, Joseph Gross, and Richard Detweiler. Interment was made in adjoining cemetery.
Hershberger, Noah A., son of Abraham and Susanna (Miller) Hershberger, was born Oct. 11, 1879, in Harrison Twp., Miami Co., Ind.; departed this life on Aug. 30, 1956, at his residence in Kokomo, Ind.; aged 76 y. 10 m. 19 d. He had lived in this community most of his life. On May 2, 1903, he was married to Mattie Troyer, who survives. To this union were born 3 children, one of whom died in infancy. Surviving besides his wife, are two children (Marvin and Ruth-Mrs. Clayton Sommers, both of Kokomo), 4 grandchildren and a sister (Neoda-Mrs. Jonas Keim, Sugarcreek, Ohio). A sister and a brother are deceased. He was a member of the Howard-Miami Mennonite Church from early youth, and served in various capacities in the Sunday school and church. He also served a period of eight months in Puerto Rice on a mission project at the Howard-Miami Church on Sept. 1 with Emanuel J. Hochstedler and A. G. Horner officiating; burial was made in the Mast Cemetery.
Martin, Martha, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Culp) Yoder, was born Feb. 2, 1887, in Elkhart Co., Ind.; passed away Aug. 27, 1956; aged 69 y. 6m. 25 d. On Dec. 9, 1905, she was united in marriage to Edward F. Martin. They had 3 sons and 2 daughters (Helen Lucille, who died in fancy; Mary-Mrs. H. D. Hershberger, Los Angeles, Calif.; Ellis M., Elkhart, Ind.; Robert, Alto, Mich.; and Owen P., Elkhart). Besides her husband, and 4 children, she is survived by 12 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, 2 sisters (Sadie-Mrs. Ezra Bleilie, Nappanee, Ind., and Goldie-Mrs. Oscar Stealy, Goshen), and a brother (Warren, Elkhart). One brother preceded her in death. In 1901 she was baptized at the Olive Mennonite Church where she remained a faithful member all these 55 years, having her hope in Christ her Saviour. She always looked forward to the monthly sisters' sewing while she was able to participate. While her husband was business manager of Goshen College in 1927-31, she especially enjoyed the fellowship of the college faculty and friends. She had been in failing health the last 5 years and slept peacefully away on Monday at their home in Elkhart. She and her husband observed their golden wedding anniversary in December of1955. Funeral services were held on Aug. 25 with the brethren D. A. Yoder, C. A. Shank, J. C. Wenger, and Elno Steiner in charge, with burial at the Olive Cemetery, Elkhart.
Rockwell, Jay S., Jr., son of Jay S. and Etta (Helmick) Rockwell, died in the Children's Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pa., Aug. 21, 1956, at the age of 14 y. 11 m. 11 d. Besides his parents he is survived by two brothers, four half brothers and five half sisters. He was a Sunday-school and summer Bible school pupil at the Masontown Mennonite Church. Funeral services were conducted by Paul M. Roth in the Honsaker Funeral Home. Burial in the Greendale Cemetery.
Taylor, Edgar H., son of Aaron and Mary (Showalter) Taylor, was born Nov. 18, 1888, near Terre Hill, Pa.; lost his life by drowning near Santa Fe, Honduras, July 26, 1956; aged 67 y. 8 m. 8 d. He became a member of the Mennonite church in his youth and remained faithful until death, serving as deacon for the Frazer congregation near Malvern, Pa., for many years. He was of a generous disposition and enjoyed doing things for others. The last few years he suffered from heart trouble but worked up until just before his death. He is survived by his wife, who was Verna Martin before marriage, and the following children (Dora, Trujillo, Honduras; Muriel-Mrs. Noah K. Mack, Morgantown, Pa.; Glenn, Lederach, Pa.; Louis-Mrs. D. Wilbur Erb, Harrisburg, Pa.; and Joyce-Mrs. Melvin Mast, Elverson, Pa.), also 16 grandchildren, one brother (William, Reading, Pa.), and other relatives. Funeral services were held July 27 at Trujillo, Honduras, with George Miller, Norman Hockman, and Catarino Cloter taking part. His peaceful face impressed many people who came to express their sympathy. Interment was made in the Trujillo Cemetery. On Aug. 18 a memorial service was held at the Frazer, Pa., Church.
Yoder, Ira, son of David Y. and Christina Yoder, was born at Blake, Ohio, April 19, 1878; passed away at the home where he had lived man years on Aug. 5, 1956; aged 78 y. 3 m. 16 d. He was united in marriage to Nola Orr Hall, who preceded him in death on Nov. 27, 1947. To this union were born 2 sons (Vernon, Medina, and Dalen, Wadsworth), 3 daughters (Mrs. Lois Farnsworth and Mrs. LaRue Minkhouse, both of Wadsworth; Mrs. Iona Shaw of the home). Besides his 5 children, he is survived by one step daughter (Mrs. Arline Shelly, Wadworth), one sister (Mrs. Emma Brubaker, Mt. Home, Idaho), 11 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, and 3 step-great-grandchildren. He became a member of the Lower Mennonite Church near Wadsworth, by water baptism on July 7, 1956. Funeral services were held at the Hilliard Funeral Home, Wadsworth, with Abram Good and Elmer Good officiating. Burial was made at Rose Hill Burial Park, Montrose, Ohio.
Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.
Charles, Esther, daughter of the late Emanuel and Susan (Herr) Groff, was born Nov. 15, 1897, near Lancaster, Pa. On June 15, 1956, she suffered a stroke from which she steadily declined and on Aug. 22 she passed away; aged 58 y. 9 m. 7 d. She was preceded in death by a brother and 2 sisters. On Nov. 16, 1922, she became the wife of Ivan N. Charles in double ceremony with her sister Susan who became the wife of Furry H. Frey. Surviving are her husband and 2 sons (David Arthur and Ivan G., both of Lancaster), 4 grandchildren, and these brothers and sisters (Mrs. Mary H. Hess, New Danville, Pa.; Anna-Mrs. Jacob H. Rohrer, Lampeter, Pa.; Nora-Mrs. Andrew N. Miller, Manheim, Pa., and Elias H., New Danville, Pa.). She was a member of the New Danville Church from her early teens; after her marriage her membership was at Habecker's Church where funeral services were conducted Aug. 24, with Christ B. Charles and Mahlon Hess in charge Burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.
Diller, Lydia A., daughter of Joseph and Nancy (Hilyard) Brenneman, was born Feb. 20, 1865, near Elida, Ohio; died June 12, 1956, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Samuel Blosser; aged 91 y. 3m. 23 d. She had been in failing health for some time, but died soon after she had a heart attack. She was married to Samuel S. Diller on July 2, 1888. He preceded her in death in 1949. To this union were born 6 children, 3 preceded her in death. Surviving are 3 daughters (Bertha-Mrs. Ancil Showalter, La Junta, Colo.; Nancy-Mrs. Sam Blosser, Lima, Ohio; Mary-Mrs. Orlo Bixler, Comins, Mich.), a daughter-in-law (Barbara Diller, Elida, Ohio), 20 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and one great-great- grandchild, 2 sisters (Mrs. Mary Ross and Mrs. Perry Smith), and one brother (Noah). She accepted the Lord in her youth and was a faithful member of the Pike Mennonite Church. Officiating at the services were Paul Smith and Harold Good, assisted by I. Mark Ross and Andrew Brenneman.
Dunlap, Eugene, was born Nov. 17, 1875, in Hartstown, Pa.; died Sept. 2, 1956, at the Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, Manistique, Mich., where he had been a patient for 2 _ weeks; aged 80 y. 9m. 16 d. Before being admitted to the hospital, he had been a patient at the Cloverland Lodge Rest Home in Manistique for three years. On Jan. 29, 1956, he accepted the Lord as his personal Saviour and on later visits, as the Scriptures were read to him, he expressed himself as desiring baptism. On May 4, 1956, he was baptized by Norman Weaver, assisted by Leonard Schmucker, and received as a member of the Cedar Grove Mennonite Church at Manistique. We praise God that even at the age of 80, he responded to God's great salvation and left a Christian testimony to his family. Funeral services were held Sept. 4 at the Messier-Broullire Funeral Home, with burial in the Thompson, Mich., cemetery.
Litwiller, Emma A., daughter of Joseph and Mary (Ropp) Litwiller, was born near Tremont, Ill., on Feb. 25, 1870; departed this life at her home near Hopedale, Ill., on Sept. 5, 1956; aged 80 y. 6m. 11 d. She was united in marriage on Jan. 2, 1896, to Benjamin Litwiller, who preceded her in death in 1943. To this union were born 3 sons and one daughter. One son, 3 brothers and 2 sisters also preceded her in death. Surviving are 3 children (Ervin, Hopedale; Alvan, Bradenton, Fla.; and Stella, with whom she lived in her home), 19 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one sister (Anna Stauffer, Milford, Nebr.), one brother (Thomas, Tremont, Ill.), and many relatives and friends. In her early youth she accepted Christ as her personal Saviour, and united with the Mennonite Church, in which faith she quietly passed away. Because of fail health, many of her last years were spent quietly at home. Many were the pleasant hours she used in singing hymns and in learning new Gospel Songs. She was a lover of music, flowers, and nature. Funeral services were held Sept. 8 at the Hopedale Church with Ben Springer and Howard Zehr in charge with interment in the Hopedale Mennonite Cemetery.
Smucker, Jonathan (Joe), son of the late John and Anna Smucker, of Bird in Hand, Pa., was born Jan. 27, 1925; passed away on Aug. 18, 1956, after a four-day illness at the Milford Memorial Hospital, Milford, Del.; aged 31 y. 6 m. 22 d. He was united in marriage to Mary Glick on Nov. 21, 1946. This marriage was blessed with 3 sons (Johnny, deceased; Mervin and Marlin). Also surviving are 3 brothers and 3 sisters (Paul M., Port Allegany, Pa.; John, Marcus, Levina, Sarah Ann, and Mary Ellen, Bird in Hand, Pa.). He was en route to the C. M. Church Conference at Greenwood, Del., when he was admitted to the hospital with an infected and swollen throat which made breathing almost impossible. The infection was possibly caused by a tetanus germ. He was a member of the Bart Mennonite Church, a man of spiritual vision, energy, and initiative, with a passion for the lost. He served in various capacities and places in his church, community, and conference. Funeral services were conducted at the Weavertown Church by Shem Peachey and Nevin Bender.
Stauffer, Maggie V., daughter of the late George and Margaret (Sharlock) Vegel, and widow of Samuel N. Stauffer, died at her home, Staufffertown, Mount Joy, Pa., on Aug. 26, 1956, after a long illness; aged 81 years. She was a resident of Stauffertown for 54 years and a member of the Mount Joy Mennonite Church. Surviving are 3 daughters (Mabel-Mrs. John K. Earhart, Mount Joy; Esther, at home, and Hattie-Mrs. Carl B. Drohan, Mount Joy), 4 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held from the Nissley funeral Home on Aug. 29 conducted by Henry Lutz, assisted by Henry Garber, Amos Hess, and Henry Frank.
Stichter, Gordon H., son of Henry and Lucy (Kegg) Stichter, was born at White Cloud, Mich., on Aug. 24, 1905; died at his home near Bremen, Ind., on Sept. 8, 1956; aged 51 y. 5 d. He was united in marriage to Esther Good, Dec. 18, 1930, and is survived by 5 sons and 2 daughters (Donald, Goshen, Ind.; Leonard, Ralph, Kenneth, Carolyn, and Lorene, at home, and Loren, in VS in Puerto Rice). One son died at birth. He also leaves 3 grandchildren, one sister and one brother, and many other relatives and friends. He accepted Christ as his Saviour in youth and was a member of the North Main Street Mennonite Church at the time of his death. He had a keen interest in missions and disaster and relief work, and gave freely of his time to various projects as they arose. He was a member of the local Mission Committee and the Disaster and Service Committee at his death. Services were held on Sept 10 at the North Main Street Church in charge of Homer F. North, assisted by Ray F. Yoder, with burial in the Olive Cemetery.
Stutzman, Glenda Jean, infant daughter of Ivan and Eileen Stutzman, Cleveland, Ohio, was born in the Pomerene Hospital, Millersburg, Ohio, July 30, 1956; passed away the following day. Surviving are the parents, and the grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. Joe Stutzman, Wooster, Ohio, and Carl F. Mast, Berlin, Ohio), Graveside services were held in the Berlin Mennonite Cemetery on July 31, in charge of Paul Hummel.
Unruh, Daniel J., was born in Henry Co., Iowa, on July 22, 1885; departed this life on Sept. 2, 1956, at the Joslin Hospital, Harper, Kans., aged 71 y. 1m. 12 d. On March 11, 1906, he was united in marriage to Mary Eck. To this union were born four sons (Irvin A., and J. Lee of Harper, Denver J., of Corvallis, Oreg.; Orvel C., deceased), one daughter (Alta Mae-Mrs. Glen Crawford, Potwin, Kans.). Surviving are the immediate family, one brother (John C., Lynnwood, Calif.), 2 sisters (Mrs. Mary Bayne, Parkville, Mo., and Anna Hirsh, Compton, Calif.), 11 grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. Besides his son, he was preceded in death by his companion on Nov. 23, 1954, his parents, one grandchild, 6 brothers, and 2 sisters. He accepted Christ early in youth and united with the Mennonite Church at Birch Tree, Mo., later uniting with the Pleasant Valley Church at Harper, Kans., remaining a faithful and active member. Services at the Pleasant Valley Church were in charge of Waldo E. Miller, with interment in the nearby cemetery.
Transcribed by Marcia Bickel, Kansas.