Risser, John (1845-1926)

Christlicher Bundesbote obituary: 1926 Oct 21 p. 7

Birth date: 1845 Dec 17

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1926 Oct 20 p. 3

text of obituary:

John Risser

Friday evening and Saturday morning the sad news reached the city that one of its old residents had suddenly passed away at his home in the northeast part of Moundridge, Kan. The following is his obituary which clearly shows that Mr. Risser was a highly respected and esteemed person, and the community extends to the berieved [sic] children and relatives their heartfelt sympathy.

John Risser was born December 17, 1845, near West Point, Iowa. In this vicinity most of his life was spent. In early manhood he united with the Mennonite Church and remained a faithful member of that faith.

On November 23, 1869 he was united in the Holy bonds of wedlock to Barbara Schmitt; to this union 7 daughters were born, namely Selma, Anna, Mrs. Amelia Beutler, Mrs. Elizabeth Judy, Mrs. Clara Wharton, Mrs. Mollie Beutler and Mrs. Helen Fry.

In the fall of 1901 he with his family came to this community locating at his present home.

Here thru joy and sorrow he spent his remaining days; being preceded in death by his faithful wife and two daughters, Mollie and Anna.

Mr. Risser was a great lover of "God's beautiful out of doors," and tho ailing for a number of years, busied himself about his place. It was here on last Friday after having completed his usual evening's chores he went to the field with Mr. Meuschke to gather in the last load of alfalfa hay, that he was suddenly called home. And thus his oft expressed wish of dying with his shoes on and out under God's canopy was fulfilled.

Mr. Risser is survived by 5 children, 9 grand children and many relatives and friends who mourn his sudden departure. — Moundridge Journal.