Gering, Peter C. (1876-1952)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1952 Nov 27 p. 9

Birth date: 1876 Sep 25

text of obituary:

PETER C. GERING

Peter C. Gering, the oldest son of Christ and Maria (Kaufman) Gering, was born Sept. 25, 1876, on a farm near Freeman, S. D..

He received his elementary education in the rural schools there. Later he enrolled at Mitchell college, where he received his state certificate. Thirteen years were spent in teaching in rural schools in North and South Dakota.

He was baptized upon confession of his faith by Rev. Christ. Kaufman Oct. 7, 1894, and received as member of the Salem-Zion church.

In 1901 he was united in matrimony with Carolina Schrag with whom he shared joys and sorrows for 51 years and 10 months. After their marriage they farmed near Freeman for several years; later they moved on a farm near Starkweather, N. D., where they resided for 40 years. In 1942 they retired from farming and moved to Freeman.

During his life he was actively engaged in church activities. At Starkweather he was superintendent of the Sunday school for 10 years, also a deacon of the church for many years. He made his daily life an example of Christ-like living and was honored and respected by his fellow men. to him music washed away the dust of everyday life and he and his family spent many hours playing the piano and other instruments. He spent 33 years in the church choir. His longing for the hymns led him to request his wife to play the piano when his hands could no longer ring sweet chords.

In 1919 they adopted a baby girl two weeks old, Edith Elisabeth, who brought much happiness into their home.

Because of an acute heart ailment he suffered a stroke Nov. 3, 1951. In spite of all that loving hands could do, his condition gradually became worse until he was released from his earthly suffering on Nov. 1, 1952 at 4:15 p.m.

He is survived by his loving and faithful wife, a daughter, Edith, three grandchildren, four sisters, five brothers, and a host of relatives and friends. He reached the age of 76 years, one month and six days.