Heckendorn. - John Heckendorn was born in Waterloo Co., Ont., Jan. 22, 1835; died Dec. 8, 1916; aged 81 y. 10 m. 16 d. He was married to Maria Good June 27, 1858. There were born to them 7 girls, 3 boys, 46 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren. The funeral was held Dec. 10. Services conducted by Enoch Bauman and A. B. Snyder.
Witmer. - Bro. Elias Witmer died at his home in Harrisburg, Pa., Dec. 1, 1916, after a long illness, leaving his wife, 5 boys and 2 girls. He has been a member of the Mennonite Church for many years. Funeral was held at Shope's Church near Highspire, Pa., Dec. 4, by the brethren, Harry L. Longenecker, John W. Weaver, and D. Z. Miller, after which remains were laid in cemetery nearby. Text, I Thes. 4:13-18.
Bachman. - Mary Maria Bachman (nee Garber) was born May 9, 1851, in Tazewell Co., Ill; died June 12, 1916; aged 65 y. 1 m. 3 d. She was united in marriage to Andrew J. Bachman Mar. 4, 1879. To this union were born 6 sons and 3 daughters (Joseph H., David E., Anna M., Jacob B., Peter S., Bertha E., Matilda P., William E., Andrew R.) all of whom with the father survive. She leaves to mourn her loss 29 grandchildren, and a host of friends. Funeral services at the Roanoke Church by A. A. Schrock, A. L. Buzzard, and Clayton F. Derstine.
Glimanhaga. - Veronica (or Fannie) Glimanhaga was born in Ontario, Feb. 2, 1835; died in Elkhart Co., Ind., Dec. 13, 1916; aged 81 y. 10 m. 11 d. She leaves to mourn her departure a sister and other relatives. She with the surviving sister lived together for many years on the farm where she died. She had been in feeble health for years. She united with the Mennonite Church over fifty years ago and remained faithful to the end. Funeral services were conducted at the Yellow Creek Church on Dec. 16, by Jacob K. Bixler from the text II Cor. 5:1.
Benner. - Ada Lillian, daughter of Rhine W. and Anna N. Benner of Job, W. Va., was born Sept. 26, 1916; died Nov.. 20, 1916; aged 1 m. 24 d. She was taken from the above named place to Souderton, Pa., the former home of the parents, for burial. Funeral services were held on Friday afternoon, Nov. 24, at the Souderton Mennonite Church, conducted by Bro. Jacob M. Moyer in English and Bro. Jodnas Mininger in German, speaking from the text found in Job 1:21 (latter clause) after which her little form was taken to its final resting place in the adjoining cemetery, there to await the glorious resurrection.
Thomas. - Lewis Conrad Thomas was born in Manard Co., Ill., Mar. 17, 1853; died at Manson, Ia., Dec. 16, 1916; aged 63 y. 8 m. 29 d. He was married to Martha Glenn Dec. 26, 1889. To this union 5 daughters were born. Two died in infancy. He leaves wife and 3 daughters to mourn their loss. He confessed Christ as his personal Savior Oct. 26, 1916, and was received into the Mennonite Church. Funeral services in the Mennonite Church in Manson Dec. 17, 1916, conducted by Bros. D. D. Zehr and J. C. Eigsti. Texts, Amos 4:12; Psa. 119:105; Jno. 1:29. Interment in Rose Hill Cemetery. May God be very near the family.
Holdeman. - Mary Elizabeth Beidler was born Nov. 23, 1866; died Dec. 14, 1916; aged 50 y. 21 d. She was married Jan. 29, 1891 to Amos Holdeman. To this union were born 6 children. One son preceded her to the spirit world. She leaves to mourn her departure her husband, 3 sons, and 2 daughters. For many years she was a faithful member of the Freeport, Ill., Mennonite Church. Five years ago they moved to Fergus Falls, Minn. The body was brought back to Freeport for burial. Funeral services conducted by E. M. Shellenberger and S. E. Graybill. Text, Rev. 14:13.
Gardner. - Catharine Knipfer Garner was born in Germany, Feb. 26, 1851; died at her home near Beaver Crossing, Nebr., Dec. 12, 1916; aged 65 y. 9 m. 17 d. She came from Germany to Canada while a child. She united with the Amish Mennonite Church in her youth and remained faithful to the end. She was married to Daniel Gardner Sept. 30, 1875, and later moved to Nebraska. She was a mother of 7 children, of whom 3 preceded her in death. She leaves husband, 4 children, 2 sisters, a brother, 3 grandchildren, and many relatives and friends to mourn her departure. She will be missed in family, neighborhood, and church. She had a longing to go home. Funeral services were conducted by Bros. Peter Kennel and Dan Lapp. Interment in West Fairview Cemetery.
Weaver.- Sister Fannie Weaver died at the home of her daughter, Rebecca (Weaver) Stratton, West Chambersburg, Pa., Dec. 22, 1916; aged 90 y. 10 m. 20 d. She was the widow of the late John S. Weaver. She had been blind for a number of years; otherwise her health was good until the death of her sister, Leah W. Lehman, who died Nov. 24, when the shock was too much for her feeble body and she died a month later. She was the last of a family of 4 sisters and 1 brother, who all died in the faith. She was for many years, a consistent member of the Mennonite Church. Funeral Dec. 24. Services at the home by Jos. E. Lehman and at Chambersburg Mennonite Church by J. S. Burkholder. Text, Psa. 17:15. Her body was laid away in the adjoining burying ground.
Freed. - Ephraim B. Freed was born at Harleysville, Pa., Oct. 20, 1845; died at the home of his son-in-law, Bro. Allen A. Alderfer, Souderton, Pa., Dec. 16, 1916; aged 71 y. 1 m. 26 d. Bro. Freed seemed in usual health Friday morning at 6:30 when he spoke to his son-in-law from his bedroom, before the latter left to attend market in Philadelphia. His daughter, thinking it rather late for him to be sleeping, went to his room, where she found her father unconscious, having had a stroke of paralysis between 6:30 and 8 o,clock. He remained in this condition until his death, Saturday afternoon at 4 o,clock. His wife (whose maiden name was Hannah Clemens) preceded him in death about 6 years; also one son. He is survived by 2 daughters, 1 son, 1 brother, and 2 sisters. He has been a faithful member of the Mennonite Church for many years, serving the Souderton Church as trustee until last spring, when he resigned owing to old age. Funeral services on Dec. 21, were conducted at the home by Bro. Jonas Mininger; at the Souderton Church by Bros. Abram Clemmer and Jacob M. Moyer. Text, Rev. 16:15.
Liechty. - Daniel Liechty was born in Wayne Co., Ohio,
Mar. 22, 1855; died at his residence near Orrville, Ohio, of heart
failure, Dec. 18, 1916; aged 61 y. 8 m. 16 d. He was united in
marriage to Emma Berkey, Oct. 12, 1876, she preceding him in death
August, 1915. Since there were no children born to this union,
their hearts were sympathetic, they opened their home for other
children, and three daughters were reared to womanhood and enjoyed
the comforts of their home.
He was the third youngest of a family of eleven children, two
sisters preceding him to the great beyond.
Four brothers, 4 sisters, and a host of relatives and friends
remain to mourn his departure.
Services held at the Oak Grove Church by the brethren, I. W. Royer
and J. S. Gerig. Interment in the cemetery near by.
Brubaker. - Leah Brubaker was born near Mifflintown,
Pa., died at her home in Snyder Co., Pa., Nov. 26, 1916; aged
69 y. 11 m. 26 d. She was a sufferer from diabetes since spring.
She was married to Jacob S. Brubaker Feb. 12, 1874. She was a
faithful member of the Mennonite Church for 41 years. She is survived
by her husband, 2 sons, 2 daughters, 26 grandchildren, 2 brothers,
and 4 sisters. Funeral services were conducted by William Schaefer,
Samuel Leiter, and W. W. Graybill. Text, Heb. 2:3. Buried in cemetery
nearby. Although any will miss her smile and cheering words, we
have reasons to believe, from her longing to go home, that our
loss is her eternal gain.
"Dearest mother, thou hast left us,
Here our loss we deeply feel;
But tis God who hast bereft us,
He can all our sorrows heal."
Burkholder. - Sister Lizzie E. (Longenecker), wife of
Pre. Abram Burkholder was born Oct. 9, 1857, in Lancaster Co.,
Pa,; died at her home near Newville, Pa. Dec. 8, 1916, of a stroke;
aged 59 y. 1 m. 29 d. She leaves to mourn her departure a grief-stricken
husband, 6 step-children, 6 brothers, 3 sisters. One sister preceded
her in death.
She was married Jan. 7, 1904, and was a good help to her companion
in his work for the Lord, but we believe our loss is her eternal
gain. She was failing in health for over a year, but death was
very unexpected at this time, as we had gained hopes of her recovery.
During the last year she had expressed herself as being willing
to go if the Lord saw fit. Funeral was held Dec. 11 at the Diller
Church. Services conducted by the brethren, W. W. Hege and Walter
Charlton. Text, II Tim. 4:6-8. Interment in the cemetery adjoining
the church.
Warey. - Mary Warey (nee Troyer), wife of the late Bishop
Christian Warey, was born in Knox Co., Ohio, July 11, 1833; died
at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. B. Yoder, near Kalona, Iowa,
Dec. 21, 1916. In her girlhood she moved with her parents to Champaign
Co., Ohio, where she was married to Christian Warey Oct. 14, 1855.
Later they moved to St. Joe, Mich., where they resided till the
spring of 1884, when they moved to Johnson Co., Iowa, where the
deceased lived until death. She leaves to mourn her departure
1 daughter and 2 sons (John of Kalona, and Chris of Amish), also
13 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
In her youth she united with the Mennonite Church, of which she
was a faithful and devoted member all her life, faithfully sharing
with her companion all the cares of the work of church extension
in the early days.
Funeral services were held at the East Union Church Sunday, Dec.
24, conducted by Eli Frey of Wauseon, Ohio, and S. C. Yoder of
the home congregation, at which time a large concourse of friends
gathered to pay their last respects to the departed one.
Schertz. - Ferdinand Schertz was born in Butler Co.,
Ohio, June 26, 1850; died at his home near Roanoke, Ill., Dec.
21, 1916; aged 66 y. 5 m. 25 d. At the age of 9 years he, with
his parents, moved to Tazewell Co., Ill., where he grew to manhood.
Later the family moved to Woodford Co., Ill., where Bro. Schertz
resided until his marriage to Mary Garber, Jan. 19, 1875. After
residing in Livingston Co. four years, Bro. Schertz and wife returned
to Woodford Co., and took up their permanent abode in the community
where he died.
Nine children were born to this union - 5 boys and 4 girls. Three
children preceded their father in death. The surviving children
are: Mrs. Geo. Sumner, August W., Edwin R., Mrs. Peter Ulrich,
Rudolph C., and Sadie. He is also survived by his loving companion,
4 sisters, 2 brothers, 18 grandchildren and a host of other relatives
and friends.
When a young man Bro. Schertz united with the Mennonite Church
at Washington, Ill., later placing his membership with the Amish
Mennonite Church in the community where he lived, to which he
remained true and faithful to the end.
About 35 years ago Bro. Schertz's hearing became defective and
for 30 years he has not been permitted to hear a sermon; yet he
never complained. He was a constant reader of the Bible which
was his staff and guide. A little more than 9 years ago he was
seriously injured in a fall, which caused him much suffering,
but he was very patient during it all and bore his suffering without
complaint.
His last illness was only of a few days, duration and when nearing
the noon hour, on the day of his death, as calmly as if he were
going to sleep, his spirit passed away.
Funeral services were conducted at the home Sunday morning by
Bro. A. L. Buzzard and at the Harmony Church by Bro. A. H. Leaman
of Chicago. Text, Psa. 90:12. Interment was made in the cemetery
nearby.
Transcribed by: Mary Teeter , Michigan
Zuercher. - Abram, infant son of Bro. Joel and Sister Martha Zuercher, Dalton, Ohio, died Dec. 31, 1916; aged 1 d. Funeral services Jan. 2, 1917, by Jacob Nussbaum and C. N. Amstutz at the Swiss Mennonite Church. It leaves to mourn its early departure father, mother, 4 sisters, 2 brothers, grandparents and a host of relatives. "Budded on earth to blossom in heaven."
Frey. - William L. Frey was born in Holmes Co., Ohio, Aug. 14, 1874; died Nov. 11, 1916; aged 42 y. 2 m. 27 d. At the age of 4 years he moved with his parents to La Grange Co., Ind., where he spent the greater part of his life. On July 3, 1905, he was united in marriage to Edna Beachy. To this union were born 5 children: Vergil, Nina, Hazel, Ernest, and Robert. He united with the Mennonite Church at Forks in 1905 and remained a faithful member until called away by death. He was sick only about a week with pneumonia, and leaves a sorrowing wife and 5 children, 6 brothers and 2 sisters, and a host of relatives, neighbors, and friends to mourn his departure, which we hope is his eternal gain. Funeral services at the Forks Church conducted by D. D. Miller.
Schlabach. - Barbara Oswald was born near Hamilton, Ohio, Nov. 14, 1837; died at the home of her daughter, Anna Snyder, of Medford, Mo., Dec. 31, 1916; aged 79 y. 1 m. 17 d. She was married to Joseph Schlabach Feb. 25, 1867. Soon after they were married they moved to Hickory Co., Mo., and in 1891 to Johnson Co., Mo. To this union were born 4 children, Laura Reber and John Schlabach who preceded her to the spirit world. Amanda Flickinger of Hugonot, Kans., and Anna Snyder of Medford, Mo., survive her. Her husband died 5 years ago. She leaves 2 sisters (Anna Handser of Hamilton, Ohio, and Amanda Oesch of Garden City, Mo.), and 9 grandchildren. She united with the Amish Mennonite Church in early life. She was a very devoted Christian, living true to her convictions. She has now gone to join the redeemed in glorifying God throughout eternity, Services at Pleasant View Church by L. J. Miller. Text, Jno. 19:27. Buried beside her husband in the Pleasant View Cemetery.
Strome. - Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel and Mary Beery,
was born in Perry Co., Ohio Aug. 23, 1836; died at the home of
her daughter near Pickerington, Ohio, Dec. 29, 1916; aged 80 y.
4 m. 6 d. Oct. 25, 1860, she was united in marriage with Henry
Strome. To this union were born 4 sons and 6 daughters. Two sons,
1 daughter, 7 grandchildren and 1 brother are left to mourn her
departure. Her husband and 7 children preceded her to the spirit
world. She united with the Mennonite Church in her girlhood days
and remained a loyal member until the Master saw fit to call her
home. She lived a widow for over 35 years. She was a kind mother,
always looking after the welfare of her children, was good and
kind to all and was familiarly known as "Aunt Betsy."
She peacefully fell asleep in Jesus. Funeral services were conducted
on the 31st in the M. E. Church at Pickerington, Ohio, by Moses
Brenneman, from II Tim. 4:6-8, assisted by Pre. Noethlich. Buried
at the Mennonite Cemetery.
"Fare thee well, our mother,
Yes, a last and sad farewell,
But in heaven we,ll try to meet thee,
And with thee forever dwell."
Hershey. - Christina A., wife of Henry Hershey, Intercourse,
Pa., died Dec. 25, 1916, of a complication of diseases; aged 59y.
10 m. 9 d. She had been in failing health about 7 years but the
last two years she became somewhat better, was able to attend
to her household duties and attend church services when health
permitted. He was a member of the Mennonite Church for many years
and we believe she is at rest with her Savior. She was of a kind
disposition, and loved by all who knew her. She had many friends,
having a smile for every one. She is survived by her husband and
two children (Mrs. Isaac M. Good and Lloyd); also two grandchildren.
Two children preceded her to the spirit world. Funeral services
at the house by Bros. Abram Martin and Jacob Mellinger, and at
Hershey,s Church by Bros. Christian Brackbill and Amos Hoover.
Text, Heb. 4:8-10. Interment in adjoining cemetery.
"We miss thee, mother dear,
From thy familiar place;
We do not hear thy footsteps,
Nor see thy smiling face."
A relative.
Hartman. - Elias Hartman of Cullom, Ill., was born July
20, 1842, in Tazewell Co., Ill., died at his home Dec. 29, 1916;
aged 74 y. 5 m. 9 d. He was the son of Peter and Agnes Hartman.
His parents emigrated to this country from Germany, making their
home in Lancaster, Pa., where they stayed only a short time. They
then moved to Ohio, where they stayed only a short time. Thence
they moved to Tazewell Co., where the family was raised. Deceased
had 5 brothers and sisters and was the last of the family to pass
to their reward.
In 1866 he came to Livingstone Co., where he farmed, but, being
unmarried he spent the winter with his mother in Tazewell Co.
Jan. 24, 1871, he was united in marriage to Sarah Shelley of Butler
Co., Pa. To this union were born 13 children. Two died in infancy
and one, Peter Hartman, in young manhood. He left to mourn his
departure a sorrowing wife, who walked hand in hand with him for
46 years, and 7 sons and 3 daughters. All the family were at home
at the time of his death except one son, Henry, who could not
be there because of the death of his wife, who died the same day
as the deceased.
He united with the Mennonite Church in his young years and lived
a consistent member to the last. He will be greatly missed by
the Church and her various institutions. Those who knew him best
loved him most.
Funeral Dec. 31, 1916, in the Mennonite Church in Collum, conducted
by Bro. J. W. McCulloh, assisted by Bro. Niniger.
Transcribed by: Mary Teeter , Michigan
Miller. - Bro. Howard Miller died Dec . 22, 1916; aged 48 y. 9 m. 7 d. He leaves a wife and 8 children to mourn his departure. Services at the Weaver Mennonite Church near Johnstown, Pa., by Alexander Weaver and S. G. Shetler. Text, Jno. 11:25. Interment in cemetery nearby.
Martin. - Sister Margaret, widow of Preacher Martin
of Waynesboro, Va., was born Nov. 9, 1858; died Dec. 28, 1917,
at the home of Sister Lizzie Wenger, Lancaster, Pa.
Sister Martin had come to Lancaster about two months ago to live
with Sister Wenger and help her with her work. She was sick about
two weeks of Bright's disease and was a patient sufferer.
The funeral was held at East Chestnut St. Church and was conducted
by Bros. John and David Mosemann (text, I Cor. 15:51), after which
the body was shipped to Waynesboro, Va., for further service and
burial.
Sister Martin's son-in-law, Bro. A. W. Eshleman, and Sister Wenger
accompanied the body to Virginia. We miss her, but we believe
our loss is her gain.
Messinger. - Emeline, daughter of Geo. and Mary Messinger,
was born Sept. 30, 1865, in Allen Co., Ohio. In her 19th year
she confessed her Lord and was baptized by Bishop Bixler and united
with the Mennonite Church, where she remained a loyal member until
her death. She lived and died in the faith of our Lord and Savior.
About 17 years ago as the result of an accident she seemed to
go down gradually until a tubercular trouble developed, ending
in death, Jan. 2, 1917; aged 51 y. 3 m. 3 d. One brother and 1
sister preceded her in death. She is survived by 1 brother, 2
sisters, 9 nephews and 9 nieces.
Funeral services were conducted in the Mennonite Church, Bluffton,
Ohio, by T. K. Hershey in English (Text, I Thes. 4:13), followed
by _____ Gotshall in German.
Horst. - David G. Horst, was born in Lancaster Co.,
Pa., June 21, 1831; died at his home in Larned, Kans., Dec. 31,
1916; aged 85 y. 5 m. 22d.
When he was thirteen years of age the family moved to Maryland,
where they lived for six years, and from there they moved to Wayne
Co., Ohio. Here he taught school for about eight years.
He was married to Elizabeth Martin, Feb. 16, 1854. He kept a store
at Orville, Ohio, for about six years, coming to Larned April
2, 1886, and this had been his home since.
For thirty years he had been a faithful member of the Presbyterian
Church, and most of that time he was an elder of the church. He
was a man who held the respect and confidence of all who knew
him.
The funeral services were held from the Presbyterian Church on
Dec. 15 and were conducted by the pastor, J. T. M. Knox. Interment
in Larned Cemetery.
Swartzendruber. - John O. Swartzendruber was born July,
1936; died Nov. 10, 1916; aged 80 y. 3 m. He was born and lived
all his life on the farm where he died. He united with the A.
M. Church in early youth and remained true and steadfast in his
faith to the end. Although he never was married he had many trials
and difficulties all through his life, especially much sickness,
being a sufferer from rheumatism for many years. He was bedfast
only three weeks, and died of cancer of the stomach. During his
late sickness he gave himself fully resigned to the will of the
Lord and said, he hopes he can soon pass on to that better land,
where pain and sorrow are no more.
Funeral was held from his late home on Nov. 13. Services at the
house conducted by Chris Gascho, and at the St. Agatha Church
by D. H. Steinman and Chris Litwiller. Interment in cemetery beside
church.
Hauck. - Susan, wife of Adam Hauck, died at her home
at Neffsville, Pa., Jan. 5, 1917, after a three days, illness
of pneumonia; aged 72 y. 11 m. 13 d. She was a faithful member
of the Mennonite Church for many years. She leaves husband, 3
children, 4 grandchildren, 3 sisters, 1 brother, and many relatives
and friends to mourn her departure. She had a desire to "depart
and to be with Christ which is far better." Much as we miss
her, we will calmly say, "God's will be done." Funeral
on the 9th conducted by Bro. John Lefever at the house and Bros.
Noah L. Landis and Isaac Taylor at the Landis Valley Mennonite
Church. Her body was laid to rest in the adjoining burying ground.
"Sleep till that morning mother,
All is over, hands are folded,
On a peaceful, quiet breast,
All is over, pain is ended,
Now dear mother is at rest."
Her daughter-in-law
Roth. - Ella S. Roth was born in Henry Co., Iowa, Oct.
2, 18655* died Dec. 25, 1916; aged 51 y. 2 m. 23 d. In her youth
she accepted Christ as her Savior, united with the Sugar Creek
Amish Mennonite Church near Wayland, Iowa, and remained a faithful
member to the end.
On Feb. 22, 1887, she was united in marriage to C. H. Roth. To
this union were born 2 sons and 2 daughters.
She leaves to mourn her departure her husband, 4 children, 5 brothers,
6 sisters, and a host of friends. One grandson, 2 brothers, and
2 sisters preceded her to the spirit world.
Three years ago she was affected with paralysis and the last three
months she suffered great pain at times from another stroke. She
always looked on the bright side and had a smile for everyone
who came to visit her and bore all patiently and without a murmur
to the end.
Funeral services were held at the Sugar Creek Church near Wayland,
Ia., by Daniel Graber, S. Gingerich, and Eli Frey. Interment in
the cemetery near by.
* transcriptionist's note: typographical error; 18655 should probably be 1865
Stutsman. - Noah B. Stutsman was born in Elkhart Co., Ind., April 17, 1858. He was united in marriage to Katie Maurer and afterwards moved to Ness Co., Kans. To this union were born 6 children. Several weeks ago he with his daughter Carrie came to Indiana to visit. On Saturday, Dec. 30, they, in company with his brother-in-law, Joseph Maurer and wife and son were driving to Goshen in an automobile when a train struck them and instantly killed Bro. Stutsman and Maurer and injured Mrs. Maurer that she died a few hours later and Miss Carrie Stutsman is lying in the hospital with both limbs broken. Bro. Stutsman united with the Mennonite Church in his young years and held to this faith to the end, arriving to the age of 58 y. 8 m. 13 d. His wife preceded him in death. Three sons, 3 daughters, and 2 brothers are left to mourn his sudden and unexpected departure. Funeral services were held at the Clinton Frame Church by D. J. Johns from Matt. 24:44, assisted by D. D. Troyer, after which the body was sent to Kansas for burial.
Zehr. - John C. Zehr was born in Livingstone Co., Ill.,
Mar. 31, 1872; died at his home near Manson, Ia., Dec. 28, 1916;
aged 44 y. 8 m. 27d. He accepted Christ as his personal Savior
in his youth, uniting with the Independent Mennonite Church later
transferring his membership to the Amish Mennonite Church of which
he remained a faithful member till called by death.
In December, 1894, he was married to Mary Orendorff. In the spring
of 1896 they came to Cullom Co., Ia., to live. This union was
blest with 5 children. This marriage was broken Nov. 7, 1908,
when his wife was called by death,
On Mar. 8, 1910, he was married to Tillie Swartzendruber.
He leaves to mourn his early death his wife, 5 children, 3 sons,
2 daughters, 5 sisters, and 3 brothers, besides a host of friends,
The funeral was held Sunday at the Mennonite Church, Bro. Simon
Gingerich of Wayland, Iowa, speaking words of consolation and
comfort from Prov. 27:1. The church was filled to overflowing.
Interment in Rose Hill Cemetery.
Holdeman. - Dea. David Holdeman was born in Ohio, June
6, 1847; died at his late home in Prince Wm. Co., Va., Dec. 19,
1916, of heart failure; aged 69 y. 6 m. 19 d. Sept. 10, 1874,
he was married to Alean Bishop. To this union were born 4 children
who reside, one in Indiana, two in Ohio, and one in Tennessee.
This wife having died he moved to Tennessee, and there was married
to Nancy Schrock of Ohio, April 9, 1896. To this union were born
six children, two of whom died in infancy. The remaining four
with the widowed mother, and 17 grandchildren survive to mourn
the loss of a kind husband and father.
Bro. Holdeman was ordained to the office of deacon in Tennessee
where he lived ten years; after that four years in Warwick Co.,
Va., from thence to Fauquier Co. one year and from there moved
to Prince Wm. Co., where he succumbed to sudden death, having
been in apparent usual health and as usual held with his family
a morning service, this time using his favorite scripture, Matt.
5. After breakfast he started out upon his days, duties, and when
but a few steps from the door, sank to the ground, and after a
few hours of illness the summons came. Bro. Holdeman will be much
missed by the scattered congregation in Fauquier Co. as never
was he absent from services when health permitted, never refusing
to be used at duty's calls. May this influence never die.
Interment was made in cemetery adjoining "The Valley Church,"
where funeral was conducted by J. F. Britten of the Dunkard persuasion,
using a portion of Jno. 14.
The family have our heartfelt sympathies and prayers.
Hartzler. - Anna L., one of thirteen children of Adam and Catharine Greenawalt, was born in Fairfield Co., Ohio, Jan. 26, 1842; died at home in Topeka, Ind., Dec. 25, 1916; aged 74 y. 11 m. On Sunday, Dec. 17, while on her way to church she was stricken with paralysis, from which she never fully regained consciousness. At the age of 12 year she came with her parents to La Grange Co., Ind., where she spent the remainder of her life. On Oct. 11, 1860, she was married to David W. Hartzler with whom she traveled the pathway of life for 56 years. To this union were born 7 children (Elizabeth, Ephraim, William, Celesta, Charles, Alice and Blanche), all of whom were at her bed-side at the time of her death. She united with the Mennonite Church when quite young. During all these years she was faithful and loyal to the Church and when health permitted her place in church was seldom vacant. A faithful husband, 5 brothers, 2 sisters, 10 grandchildren, besides a host of other relatives and friends mourn her departure. Funeral services were held from the Maple Grove Church conducted by J. E. Hartzler, whose sermon theme ("Our Hope of Immortality") was found in Job 14:14.
Diener. - Barbara Fry Diener was born in France July
26, 1849; died Jan. 3, 1917, at her home southwest of Bellefontaine,
Ohio; aged 67 y. 5 m. 7 d. She was the daughter of Pre. Joseph
Fry who brought his family to America about the year 1853 and
settled in Stark Co., O. Here she grew to womanhood. On Nov. 12,
1872, in Wayne Co., O., she was married to John H. Diener, who
died December, 1909. The earlier years of their married life were
spent in Lancaster Co., Pa., and in 1881 they moved to Logan Co.,
O., and settled on the farm where she died. To this union were
born 1 son and 2 daughters. One daughter, Emma, died in infancy.
She united with the Amish Mennonite Church in her girlhood and
in this faith she died. Although quiet and unassuming she was
an honest and earnest worker for the Master's cause and her place
in church was never vacant when possible for her to attend. She
was always ready to reach out a helping hand to anyone in need,
and was a great lover of God's handiwork and took especial interest
and pleasure in flowers. She leaves 2 children (Mrs. Jesse Hartzler
and Hiram), and 4 grandchildren. She was the last surviving of
8 sisters and preceded her only brother, Joseph Fry, two
days in death. By the death of our beloved sister the children
have lost a kind and loving mother, the church a faithful and
consistent member, and the community a generous and respected
neighbor.
"A precious one from us has gone,
A voice we loved is stilled;
A place is vacant in our home
Which never can be filled."
Funeral services were held Sunday at the home by Bro. Levi Plank
followed by the double services at the South Union Church at 11
o,clock for her and her brother, Joseph Fry, by Bro. J.
B. Hartzler and Bro. Levi Plank. The bodies were tenderly laid
to rest in the cemetery near the church.
Transcribed by: Mary Teeter , Michigan
Immel. - Paul Immel was born Dec. 13, 1916; died Jan.
12, 1917; aged 1 m. He died from whooping cough. He leaves to
mourn his early departure father, mother, 2 sisters and 3 grandparents.
He was buried on Jan. 14 at the Walnut Creek Amish Mennonite church.
Service by S. H. Miller, from Ps. 39:6.
Bare. - John Bare, son of John and Annie Bare, was born in Beaver Township, Ohio, Aug. 15, 1839; died Jan. 11, 1917; aged 77 y. 4 m. and 26 d. On the morning of Jan. 7th he was stricken with paralysis, and a few days later pneumonia developed, which caused his death. He was unmarried and had his home with his brother Elias, near Calla, Mah. Co., Ohio. He was a member of the Church of the Brethren for many years. He leaves four brothers and many other relatives to mourn his loss. Funeral services were held at the Midway Church, conducted by Albert Harold and A. J. Steiner on Jan. 13, 1917.
Hochstetler. - Edna Hochstetler was born April 3, 1916, and died Jan. 11, 1917; aged 9 m. 8 d. She was sick about four months. Her sickness was capillary bronchitis. Bro. and Sister preceded her. She leaves her early departure father, mother, 1 brother, 3 sisters, 2 half-sisters and a host of relatives and friends. She was buried on the 13th at the Walnut Creek Amish Mennonite Church. Services by S. H. Miller from Jas. 4:14.
Kurtz. - David Kurtz was born in Juniata Co., Pa., March 13, 1842; died at his home near Winesburg, O., Jan. 8, 1917. He leaves his aged companion, 5 children, 23 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild, 2 sisters, 1 step-sister, 1 half-brother (Bro. J. K. Hooley), and a host of friends to mourn his departure. Funeral Jan. 10, at the home of Emanuel Weaver, conducted by Preachers Miller and Mast of the Amish Church of which he was a faithful member.
Freed. - Annie Mae, infant daughter of Bro. John G.
and Sister Annie Freed of near Elroy, Pa., was born July 14, 1916;
died of pneumonia Jan. 2, 1917; aged 5 m. 18 d. Besides the grief-stricken
parents, 3 sisters, 4 brothers, grandparents, and many other relatives
and friends sympathize with the family in their bereavement. Funeral
services were held at Souderton Mennonite church, Jan. 6, by Bros.
Menno Souder and Jonas Minnich. Burial in adjoining cemetery.
"Sleep on in thy beauty,
Thou sweet angel child,
By sorrow unblighted,
By sin undefiled."
Zook. - Phoebe Zook died at her home near Mattawana,
Pa., Jan. 12, 1917; aged 74 y. 29 d. Deceased was a member of
the Dunkard Church, and lived a consistent Christian life. She
was much interested in and devoted to the welfare of the poor
and needy, rendering many gifts and help which far exceeded that
of a cup of cold water. She leaves to mourn her departure one
brother, two sisters, and many relatives and friends.
Funeral services conducted on Sunday afternoon in the A. M. Church,
by J. C. Swigart, and John E. Kauffman. Text, I Cor. 15:55. Interment
in the Mattawana Cemetery.
Witmer. - Gordon Levi Witmer was born near Preston,
Ont., July 27, 1913; died Jan. 7, 1917; aged 3 y. 5 m. 11 d.
His death was caused by diphtheria from which he suffered only
about ten days.
He leaves to mourn his early departure his mother, one sister,
grandmother, and other relatives and friends, who deeply sympathize
in this hour of sad bereavement.
Burial took place on Jan. 7 at Wanner,s cemetery beside his father,
who died nearly four months ago and his grandfather who died eight
months ago.
Memorial services were held on Jan. 21, at Hagey's church, conducted
by Bro. Ben. Shantz.
Garver. - Abram A. Garber was born in Holmes Co., O., Mar. 14, 1840; died Jan. 1, 1917; aged 76 y. 9 m. 17 d. On Nov. 11, 1866, he was married to Miss Salome Eash also of Holmes Co., O. To this union were born 5 sons and 2 daughters: Emery, who died Aug. 11, 1911; Leander, of Dunlaps, Ind., Mrs. Almon Leer, of near Dunlaps; Mrs. Oscar Brenneman, and Henry of Elkhart; Chauncey of Ellis, Kans., and Joseph at home. He also leaves 6 grandchildren and a large circle of friends. He united with the Mennonite Church about 58 years ago and remained a faithful and consistent member till his death. Funeral services at the Evangelical Church at Dunlaps, Ind., conducted by Jacob K. Bixler and W. B. Weaver.
Peterman. - Catherine Cober Peterman was born Dec. 9,
1838, in Puslinch Twp., Wellington Co., Ont.; died on Dec. 30,
1916; aged 78 y. 21 d.
She was married in April, 1887, to Samuel Peterman, who predeceased
her sixteen years ago. About twelve years ago she united with
the Mennonite Church, to which she has been faithful to the end.
Although her natural sight failed in the last few years, we believe
she could see the eternal things.
Funeral services were conducted at the Union Church, Puslinch
Tp., on Jan. 2, 1917, by Nathaniel Wildfong and Bro. Benjamin
Shantz. Texts II Kings 20:1; and Matt. 17:8.
Graber. - Barbara Widmer Graber was born in Canton Berne,
Switzerland, June 14, 1859; died at her home in Henry Co., Iowa,
Jan. 7, 1917; aged 57 y. 6 m. 23 d.
She came to America in 1879, was united in marriage to Peter Graber
Feb. 24, 1881. No children being born to this union, their true
parental hearts looked upon other needy children and three children
were adopted into their home.
She accepted Jesus as her personal Savior in her youth and remained
a faithful member of the Amish Mennonite Church until called by
death. She leaves her husband, three children, two brothers, one
sister, and a host of friends to mourn her departure. Funeral
services at the Sugar Creek Church near Wayland, Ia., by the home
ministers. it was requested to read Psalm 116, which she had been
found reading so much. Interment in the cemetery nearby.
Klopfenstein. - Christ. Klopfenstein was born in Basel,
Switzerland, May 19, 1836; died at the home of his daughter near
Wayland, Iowa, January 13, 1917; aged 80 y. 8 m. 3 d.
In his youth he accepted Christ as his person Savior and united
with the Amish Mennonite Church of which he remained a faithful
member until death.
At the age of 19 he emigrated to America and has been a resident
of Washington and Henry counties ever since.
On Oct. 30, 1864, he was united in marriage to Mary Wenger. To
this union were born 6 children, 2 died in infancy. Two sons,
two daughters, two sisters and 8 grandchildren remain to mourn
the loss of a loving father and brother. Funeral services at the
Sugar Creek Church near Wayland, Iowa, by S. M. Mussleman and
S. Gerig, deceased brother choosing for his text a part of the
Third Epistle of John. His body was laid to rest in the cemetery
near by.
Augspurger. - Nicklous Augspurger, son of the late Bishop
Nickolas and Magdalena Augspurger, was bon near Trenton, Butler
Co., Ohio, Feb. 22, 1843; passed to his eternal reward on Dec.
27, 1916; aged 73 y. 10 m. 5 d.
He united in marriage with Catharine Schantz, Feb. 20, 1873, who
preceded him in death March 4, 1885.
This union was blessed with two daughters and one son, Clara,
Julina, and Willis, who are left to mourn the loss of a kind and
loving father. he also leaves seven grandchildren, two brothers,
one sister. Two grand children preceded him in death.
In his youth he united with the Amish Church near Trenton, Ohio,
of which his father and grandfather were for many years the bishop.
Funeral services were held at his late home in Trenton by David
Augspurger in German and at the Trenton Church by H. H. Grubb
in English. Interment in Augspurger Cemetery.
Beller. - Jacob R. Beller, son of Jacob and Anna Beller
was born June 27, 1896; died January 2, 1917; aged 20 y. 6 m.
6 d.
He was ill only a week. He was taken to the hospital at Lincoln,
Neb., December 26, and was operated on the same day for appendicitis.
He was gaining and improving nicely until Monday, when he began
to show signs of failing. On Tuesday it was found necessary for
them to perform the second operation, and on Tuesday the death
angel called him home. This is another loud call for the young
people to be ready when the death angel comes.
He leaves to mourn their loss father, 1 brother, and 4 sisters,
but they need not mourn as those who have no hope, for he was
a faithful member of the Methodist Church.
Funeral services at the house by Bish. Peter Kennel and at the
Methodist church by Rev. Maxy.
Interment at the Salem Mennonite Cemetery.
Hartman. - Ida Hartman (nee Engel) was born Feb. 9, 1874, near Washington, Tazewell Co., Ill.; died Dec. 29, 1916; aged 42 y. 10 m. 20 d. She was united in marriage to Henry Hartman on Feb. 13, 1896. To this union were born 3 children, Elsie, Russell, and Lyle. Russell preceded her in death on Oct. 13, 1908. Besides husband and 2 children, she leaves 3 sisters, 2 brothers, an aged father, and many relatives and friends to mourn her death. She had been in failing health for the past year but was still able to be about the home until the morning of her death when she suddenly grew worse and in a few hours passed away. She united with the Mennonite Church at the age of 16 and remained a faithful member until death. In her early departure the family have lost a faithful wife and mother, the community a kind neighbor, and the church an active, faithful worker, but we have this assurance that our loss is her eternal gain. The funeral was held on New Year's day at the Union Mennonite Church, where a large concourse of people assembled to pay a last tribute of respect. Services were conducted by J. S. Shoemaker and A. L. Buzzard. Text, Job 16:22.
Martin. - Margaret S. Martin, daughter of Peter and Magdalene Blosser deceased, was born in Rockingham Co., Va., Nov. 9, 1858; passed to her reward in Lancaster City, Penna., at the home of Sister Lizzie Wenger, Dec. 28, 1916; aged 58 y. 1 m. and 19 d. She left Virginia the first of Nov., 1916, to spend a few months with sister Wenger and suddenly took sick two weeks before she died. The doctors pronounced the case acute inflammatory Bright,s disease. She married Pre. J. H. Martin in 1905 and lived happily with him only a little over three years. Since that time she went from place to place a good bit, but her home was near Waynesboro, Augusta Co., Va. She left to mourn their loss two sisters, three brothers, and two step-sons one of whom lives in Lancaster Co., Penna., who went to her bedside as soon as informed of her illness, and remained until the end. She was a faithful church goer, a pattern of simplicity, and lived a life worthy of imitation. Services were held in the Lancaster City church by Bro. John Mosemann, on Dec. 29, 1916, after which friends left with the body for Virginia. They arrived the 30. Services were held at the Springdale church Dec. 31st, at which place she held her membership for quite awhile. Services were conducted by the home ministers, Bishop A. P. Heatwole, taking the text from Isa. 35:10.
Gsell. - Sister Mary E. Gsell was born near Clearspring,
Md., on Dec. 9, 1841, and she peacefully passed away on Dec. 20,
1916; aged 75 y. 11 d. She died on the same day that her husband,
David H. Gsell died just sixteen years ago. Her health had been
failing for some time but she bore her sickness with Christian
patience and died with the bright hope and full assurance of life
beyond having put her trust in the Lord. She longed to be at rest.
She spent more than a half century in the service of her Master
and as long as health permitted, her place in church service was
seldom vacant.
She leaves four daughters, one son, eight grand children, five
great grand children, to mourn her departure; but she has only
gone before us, and may we all live so we can meet her in the
bright world beyond.
Funeral services were held at the Clearspring, Md., Mennonite
church Dec. 23, conducted by C. R. Strite and Geo. S. Keener from
II Tim. 4:6-8, which she had selected. Buried in the adjoining
cemetery.
Death has taken our kind mother
Whom we loved and cherished dear;
It was mother, yes, dear mother,
Can we help but shed a tear?
Sweetly sleepeth our dear mother
All her toil and care are o'er,
Freed from pain and all earth's sorrow.
Now she rests on Canaan shore.
By her daughter Almeda
Barnes. - Elizabeth S. (Hunsberger) widow of the late
Jacob G. Barnes, was born August 16, 1845; died at the home of
her son in Sellersville, Pa., Jan. 5, 1917; aged 71 y. 4 m. 19
d. Sister Barnes has been in ill health of complications due to
advanced years, and general debility for two years, much of the
time being confined to her room. Since the death of her husband
Dec. 30, 1904, until she was taken sick she resided in Souderton,
and was a faithful attendant of the Mennonite church there of
which she was a member for many years. She is survived by five
sons, one daughter, 16 grand-children, 3 greatgrand-children,
and two brothers. Funeral services were held Jan. 9, from the
son,s residence, thence to the Souderton Mennonite church by Bro.
Jonas Minninger assisted by Bros. Jacob M. Myers and Christian
Allebach, from Heb. 4:9. Burial in adjoining cemetery beside her
husband and 2 children.
Some sweet day when life is o'er,
We shall meet above;
We shall meet those gone before
In that home of love.
Nice. - Bertha A., daughter of Menno and Agnes Clemmer was born June 22, 1888 in Lower Salford township, Pa,; died at the Jewish Hospital, Philadelphia Jan. 7, 1917; aged 28 y. 6 m. 15 d. She was married to Elias P. Nice July 18, 1907, to this union were born one daughter, and two sons, who still survive, also her parents, three brothers, and two sisters who mourn her early departure. She was taken sick about seven weeks before death, of heavy cold and pneumonia, which caused her body to be diseased by various ailments. After three weeks, illness she was taken to the Phila. hospital where she received professional aid but to no avail, as her sufferings became more intense, she longed more for the eternal rest where she could meet her Jesus. About seven years ago she with her husband united with the Souderton Mennonite church, of which she has been a faithful attendant at church as well as S. S. and wherever the Word of God was taught. Her remains were brought here on the 11th where Bros. J. C. Clemmens and Jacob M. Moyer spoke from Luke 23:28 and Luke 9:26. Burial in adjoining cemetery.
Benner. - Claude Y., son of Bro. Charles and Sister
Leanna Benner of Souderton, Pa., was born June 23, 1916; died
Jan. 8, 1917; aged 1 y. 6 m. 15 d. The child had been sick for
nine days, suffering with an attack of pneumonia, and later complications
arose which caused its death. It leaves to mourn its early departure
parents, 2 brothers, grandparents, and many other relatives. This
is the second time these parents have been called to give up their
little boy, the other child passed away about 8 years ago. Funeral
services were held at the Souderton Mennonite church Jan. 12,
by Bros. J. C. Clemmer and Jacob M. Moyer. Interment in adjoining
cemetery.
"Safe in the arms of Jesus,
Safe on His gentle breast,
There by His love o'er shaded,
Sweetly the soul shall rest."
Stover. - Willard, son of Jacob and Lottie Stover, of
West Telford, Pa., was born Dec. 10, 1910; died Jan. 9, 1917;
aged 6 y. 1 m. Death was caused by an attack of lagrippe developing
into influenza which caused a sudden death. Besides the grief-stricken
parents, 3 brothers and 1 sister survive. Funeral services were
held at Souderton Mennonite Church, Jan. 13, conducted by Bros.
Abram Clemmer and Jacob M. Moyer. The funeral was largely attended
by relatives, friends and the schoolmates who learned to love
him the few months he had been with them in school.
It will be noticed that the four funerals here recorded were all
held at the Souderton, Pa., Church, and the bodies buried in that
cemetery in a week,s time. Childhood, middle life, and old age
have been called away within a few days. It is a loud call to
us all; for all but our aged sister has a very short illness.
A few months ago they appeared in health, as many of our readers
may be. Are we ready when the summons comes to us?
Schrock. - Albert E. Schrock was born in Tazewell Co.,
Ill., Jan. 13, 1886; died at his home near Fisher, Ill., Jan.
9, 1917; aged 30 y. 11 m. 27 d.
He united with the Amish Mennonite Church at the age of 17 years
and remained faithful unto the end. He united in marriage with
Josephine Yordy Dec. 18, 1907. To this union were born 2 sons,
Elmer and Orval who with his loving wife, are left to mourn his
early departure, also father and mother, 1 sister, an aged grandmother,
and a host of other relatives and friends. He was a very devoted
Christian, living true to his convictions. He was elected superintendent
of the Sunday school where he served faithfully until his health
failed, when he was attacked with the dreaded disease, tuberculosis,
of which he was a sufferer for four years. Much of this time he
spent in reading good books and studying God,s Word. He bore his
afflictions patiently and fought the disease hard, and died with
a hemorrhage. He was a deep thinker, very conservative, choosing
rather to be right than popular.
Even with his afflictions he always took an active part in church
work, being in Sunday school two days before his death.
Funeral services were conducted Jan. 11 at the East Bend A. M.
Church by Bro. Samuel Gerber of Pekin, Ill., assisted by the home
ministers. Buried at the Mennonite cemetery.
Fare thee well, our brother,
Yes, a last and sad farewell,
But in heaven, we'll try to meet thee,
And with thee forever dwell.
Transcribed by: Mary Teeter, Michigan