Kroeker, John T. (1881-1963)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1963 Dec 12 p. 5

Birth date: 1881 Nov 21

text of obituary:

. . .

• John T. Kroeker, 82, died Monday at his home in Inman. He was a longtime member of the Zoar Mennonite Brethren Church where the funeral services were to be conducted Wednesday afternoon by Rev. E. C. Ollenburger. Survivors include his widow, Sarah, a son Aaron of Inman, and two daughters, Maria and Lydia Kroeker of the home.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1964 Jan 9 p. 8

text of obituary:

JOHN T. KROEKER

John Thiessen Kroeker, son of Abraham and Maria Thiessen Kroeker, was born Nov. 21, 1881 near Buhler, Kan. Here he spent his early years, also receiving a limited amount of education since his father was a minister and he had to help with the home duties. Often he had to take his father to the various places of worship with horse and buggy.

In November 1909 when Missionary Frank Wiens held revival meetings, he accepted Christ as his personal Saviour. Upon confession of faith he with 70 others was baptized on Dec. 5, 1909 and affiliated with the Zoar K. M. B. church, whose member he remained till the end.

On March 10, 1910 he was joined in holy matrimony to Katherina Hildebrand. To this union were born two sons and two daughters. Sorrow all too early entered father's life when this union was broken and his companion was taken from his side on Jan. 2, 1929. Also one son died in infancy.

Father enjoyed good health and worked hard all his life to provide for the needs of his family. The mission cause was close to his heart. He had a great concern for the lost and hungry. He always gave gladly and willingly and he requested his family to continue this.

On Jan. 4, 1944 he was united in marriage to Sara Kroeker. His life was not always sunny, but in quietness and trust he held on to his Redeeemer and Master. He often read his Bible, and he admonished his family to do this also. His favorite Scriptures were Psalm 18 and 23.

Several weeks ago he got an infection which led to a cough. This left him very weak and unable to take nourishment. His utmost desire was to depart to his heavenly Home. When his favorite German songs were sung, he would motion upward. One day he motioned to one of his children and said as he looked up, “We're marching to Zion. Come, let's go.”

His hour came on Dec. 9 at 9:30 a.m. He attained the age of 82 years and 18 days. He leaves to mourn his departure his wife Sara; one son, Aaron; two daughters, Marie and Lydia. Preceding him were his parents one sister and three brother's. — The Bereaved Family.