Goertz, Margaret Wedel (1910-1980)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1980 Jan 17 p. 8

Birth date: 1910 Jan 10

text of obituary:

NEWTON & VICINITY

Margaret (Mrs. John) Goertz, a member of the Bethel College Mennonite Church of North Newton and a long-time teacher in the Newton public school system, died Jan. 10 in Tucson, Ariz. She was 69. Surviving in addition to her husband is a brother, Dr. Waldo Wedel of Washington, D. C.

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Biographical sketch from funeral program:

MARGARET WEDEL GOERTZ

Margaret Wedel Goertz, Copper Center, Alaska, died unexpectedly of a massive heart attack on January 10, 1980, in Tucson, Arizona. She and her husband, John, were on their return trip home, after an extended visit in the Newton area. They had spent Christmas with her brother, Dr. Waldo Wedel, and his family in Washington, D. C.

Margaret was born on September 17, 1910, to Peter J. and Magdalena Krehbiel Wedel in Newton, Kansas. She was a member of the Bethel College Mennonite Church, where she served as church organist for many years. She attended Bethel College and Kansas State Teachers College at Emporia. Margaret taught kindergarten 25 years in the Newton school system and 15 years in Alaska.

Following their marriage on May 28, 1960, Margaret and John moved to Alaska making their home in Anchorage. Later they homesteaded in Copper Center, which became their permanent residence after retirement. Through pioneer living they developed a deep love and appreciation for the wilderness. Together they built their cabin and became self-sufficient through hunting, fishing, gardening and the preservation of foods.

Margaret was very active in community affairs. She enjoyed participating in the interdenominational community church. She organized and conducted Kenny Lake activities such as fairs and baking contests. Her leadership skills will be greatly missed by the community.

Survivors include her husband John, brother Waldo, his wife Mildred, one niece Linda, and two nephews Waldo Jr. and Frank.