Graves, Jacob (1904-1959)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 14 May 1959 p. 8

Birth date: 1904

text of obituary:

JACOB GRAVES

Jacob Graves, son of Mrs. Suanna [sic] Graves and the late Isaac Graves, was born near Goessel, Kan. on Jan. 17, 1904. He received his education in the Hillsboro community. He was baptized upon confession of his faith on April 12, 1925, and received as a member in the Hillsboro Mennonnite [sic] Church by the elder, Rev. John T. Epp.

He was united in marriage to Helen Wohlgemuth on Aug. 21, 1927, in the Gnadenau Church near Hillsboro. After their marriage they moved to Buhler, Kan. where he was employed in a general merchandise store. In 1932 they moved into the Walton community where he was engaged in farming until his death. They joined the Walton Mennonite Church, where he was a faithful member until his death.

He had been in good health until May of 1956 when he had a minor operation from which he recovered. About a year later we noticed that his health was failing and medical advice was sought. He was hospitalized on March 6, 1958, for treatment of ulcers. He again entered the hospital May 8, 1959, for an appendectomy.

On Jan. 20, 1959, he entered the hospital for observation, and the doctor informed us that he must again undergo surgery. On Feb. 16, 1959, he underwent surgery, after which the doctor told us that he had cancer, and had only a short time to live. He was dismissed from the hospital on March 10, 1959. Tender care was given him in the home for almost seven weeks.

He passed on to be with his Redeemer on April 25, 1959, at 12:30 p.m. He reached the age of 55 years, three months and eight days.

He suffered greatly during the last two months of his life, but was very patient and prayed to God for courage and strength. During the last few days he hummed "Safe in the Arms of Jesus," "Blessed Assurance" and other songs which were dear to him.

Our father served in the community and his church whenever an opportunity presented itself. He was well liked in the community and will be greatly missed by all.

He leaves to mourn his departure his wife Helen; two daughters, Ethel, Mrs. Virgil Schroeder, of Newton, Donna Jean, Mrs. Roland Voth of North Newton; one son, Lewis James of the home; two sons-in-law; four grandchildren; his aged mother; four sisters, Mrs. John Hiebert of Newton, Mrs. John Buller of Peabody, Mrs Walter Voth of Durham and Mrs. David Neufeld of Walton; one brother, Isaak Graves of Walton; and a host of relatives and friends.

One daughter Joanne and his father preceded him in death. — Mrs. Jacob Graves and Family.