Esau, Diedrich D. (1888-1963)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1963 Aug 1 p. 8

Birth date: 1888 Jan 4

text of obituary:

DIEDRICH D. ESAU

Diedrich D. Esau, son of Diedrich and Kathrine [Katharina] (Harder) Esau, was born Jan. r4, 1888, at Mountain Lake, Minn., and went to be with his Lord on July 10, 1963, reaching the age of 75 years, six months, and six days.

In his early childhood he was much needed in the home, helping his parents with the chores on the farm. His one important duty was delivering milk to the local residents of the village. He attended school in the local country school and the German Bible School.

At the age of 19 he felt the constraining love of Christ to make his decision to follow Him. He joined the catechism class and was baptized upon the confession of his faith in Christ, by the beloved Elder Heinrich Quiring on May 20, 1907, at the Bergfelder Church, now the Gospel Mennonite Church. Here he remained a member until he affiliated with the Bethel Mennonite Church where he remained a member until his death.

On March 20, 1913 he was united in marriage with Mary Sawatzky to whom he as a good and faithful husband.

His interest was farming and upon their marriage they moved to Inverness, Mont. where they took up a claim and established their home. After two years they came back to the Mt. Lake community and remained here the remaining years.

He had a frail body subject to many illnesses but was always full of determination and of purpose to make a success in life.

One of the greatest joys in their life was when they had the privilege and honor to observe their golden wedding anniversary on March 20, 1963, with their many relatives and friends who wished them well and the blessing of the Lord. They also enjoyed the many greeting cards which were received by mail.

He had a keen appreciation for sacred music and spent much time entertaining himself with various instruments. His favorite song was “Jesus Lover of my Soul.”

He leaves to mourn his departure his wife Mary who stood with him through many joys and sorrows; one sister Anna, of Chicago; four brothers Theodore of St. Paul, Willard of Minneapolis; Henry and John of Mountain Lake; five sisters-in-law, and many relatives and friends.

“Blessed are they who die in the Lord.”

The Mennonite obituary: 1963 Sep 24 p. 575