Schmidt, Elsie (1911-1931)

Christlicher Bundesbote obituary: 1931 Nov 10 p. 14

Birth date: 1911 Nov 20

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1931 Oct 28 p. 3

text of obituary:

Elsie Schmidt

Elsie Schmidt was born November 20, 1911, in Oklahoma, and died october 13, at 2:15 p.m. at Dos Palos, Calif.

She was baptized and received membership in the First Mennonite Church of Reedley, Calif., in 1926.

Elsie's departure will be deeply felt by the bereaved family and the many friends she left behind. She suffered much in the last days of her illness; and it was only through her steadfast faith in the Master she served that enabled her to keep smiling to the last. Even in her delirium, her talk was directed heaven-ward.

A few hours before she died she said, "Mother, the Line is clear, we must all live more Christ-like lives." Just before she passed away she said, "I'm so happy I'd sing if I only could" and then, "I'm going home" and then she went to her Master.

Her whole attitude and purpose in life can best be shown by a poem which she composed about six months ago.

I Thank Thee

Gracious Lord, I humbly kneel in prayer,
And thank Thee for Thy tender care.
For Thy many blessings I thank Thee too;
They strengthen and keep me all day through.

And while I'm kneeling, a vision I see
Of my home and loved ones praying for me.
For them I'll lift my voice in prayer.
And thank Thee for their love and care.

For the gift of friendship I thank Thee too.
Nothing is more holy if our friends are true.
So for my friends, Oh Lord, I pray
That Thou wilt guide them thru life's way.

My greatest thanks I've kept for Thee,
For Thou didst give Thyself for me!
To the foot of the Cross my all I bring
Glad to serve Thee, my Lord and King!

The Mennonite obituary: 1931 Nov 5 p. 12