Jantzen, Cornelius (1866-1958)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1958 Feb 13 p. 10

Birth date: 1866 Jan 24

text of obituary:

CORNELIUS JANTZEN

Cornelius Jantzen, son of Heinrich and Barbara (Hamm) Jantzen, was born in the village Hahns Au, near Saratov, Russia, on Jan. 24, 1866. He received his elementary education in the village school. He was baptized on Aug. 8, 1882, upon the confession of his faith by Rev. Johann Jantzen.

Having two older brothers who had considerable musical talent, the family spent many evenings around the fireside, singing and playing hymns. This developed in father a love for music early in youth, which remained with him through the years.

In 1880 his parents with many other families left their home and went to Asiatic Russia, hoping to establish a permanent home there. This venture proved unsatisfactory and in 1884 they migrated to America. At this time he became a member of the First Mennonite Church at Beatrice, Neb.

In 1889 he moved to the farm near Plymouth where he resided until his death.

On March 2, 1893, he was married to Marie Wall. Four children were born to this union, one child preceding him in death in infancy. On Sept. 20, 1903, his wife passed away. On Jan. 12, 1905, he was married to Anna Ensz, with whom he was permitted to live 53 years. Six children were born to this union.

In his younger years father was active in church and Sunday school work. The Word of God was precious to him and his admonitions to us to be faithful in morning and evening devotions will be a lasting memory.

The passing of his youngest brother in 1949 left him the only survivor of his immediate family and friends of younger days. This, together with the loss of his hearing, which deprived him of church fellowship and social contacts, made for many lonely hours. However, he found a source of real blessing, comfort and strength in the many Scripture passages and hymns that he had committed to memory.

His health failed noticeably the last half year, and on Jan. 18, in the early morning hours, the Lord took him home. He attained the age of 92 years, less nine days.

He is survived by his devoted wife, one son, one daughter-in-law, eight daughters, four sons-in-law, 22 grandchildren and ?2 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Jan. 21, 1958 at the First Mennonite Church with Rev. Harold Buller officiating. — The Family.