Penner, Martha Ratzlaff (1883-1970)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1971 Jan 7 p. 11

Birth date: 1883 Apr 27

text of obituary:

MRS. MARTHA PENNER

Martha (Ratzlaff) Penner was born on April 27, 1883 and passed away Nov. 9, 1970. She reached the age of 87 years, six months and 13 days.

Her early years were spent in Marion County, Kansas. As a young girl she moved with her parents to Fairview, Okla. Here she grew to womanhood. When she was nine years old she realized her need of a Savior. She found peace and forgiveness of her sins in the Blood of the Lamb, and upon confession of her faith she was baptized and received into the Mennonite Brethren Church.

On Nov. 21, 1900 she was married to Peter F. Penner. This union was blessed with eight children.

In the winter of 1911 our parents moved to Beaver county and settled on a farm near Boyd, Okla. Here they experienced the hardships of early pioneer life. During the dust bowl days their faith in the promises of God was a great source of strength and comfort to them.

On Nov. 8, 1948 father passed away. Mother claimed the promise that God would never forsake nor leave her. Such Bible passages as Psalms 1, and 23 were among her favorites. Isaiah 43:2 became an actual experience for her.

On Jan. 5, 1957 the passing of a granddaughter and the tragic death of George and Eva Vogt and their son Jay Lyndon on Dec. 1, 1962 brought increased sorrow. Again our heavenly Father graciously cared for her and carried her through many dark and lonely hours. She was a praying mother and never neglected to bring each of her children to the throne of grace in her daily devotions.

Because of her health and age she became a resident of the Fairview Fellowship Home in February 1968. She was happy for each visit by her children and friends.

On Nov. 4 in the early morning hours she suffered a stroke. She never regained consciousness, and on Nov. 8 at 2:00 p.m. she departed this life to be with the Lord whom she loved.

She leaves to mourn her passing seven children, David H. of Balko, Okla., Leona, Mrs. Ari Neufeld of Balko, Ruben [sic Rueben] of Balko, Herbert of Turpin, Okla., Lydia, Mrs. Sam Kroeker of Corn, Okla., Alvin of Balko, Ruby, Mrs. Fred Treu of Milwaukee, Wis.; three sons-in-law and four daughters-in-law; 20 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren; one brother, Henry Ratzlaff of Shafter, Calif.; one sister, Mrs. Dave Gertz of Reedley, Calif., and a host of relatives and friends.

We mourn not as such that have no hope, but we expect to see mother again in Heaven. — The Family.