Schmidt, Peter P. (1881-1953)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1953 Nov 19 p. 6

Birth date: 1881 Feb 11

text of obituary:

— Funeral services for Peter P. Schmidt, 72, well known retired farmer of the Gnadenberg community east of Newton, were held Monday afternoon at the Gnadenberg church, Rev. Herbert E. Miller officiating. Mr. Schmidt died Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Bethel Deaconess hospital, having suffered a number of strokes. He spent his entire life on the same farm in Pleasant township. Surviving are his wife, the former Alice Kliewer, and two brothers, H. P. Schmidt of Newton and J. B. Schmidt of Route 3.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1953 Nov 26 p. 6

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1953 Dec 24 p. 9

text of obituary:

PETER P. SCHMIDT

Peter P. Schmidt, son of Peter A. and Helena Balzer Schmidt, was born February 11, 1881. He grew up in a Christian home and upon the confession of his faith in Jesus Christ as his Saviour, he was baptized on October 21, 1900, by Elder Jacob Toews and admitted to the Gnadenberg Mennonite church. He had attended district school and during the winter of 1901-02 attended the Light and Hope Bible Institute in Cleveland, Ohio.

On August 27, 1914, he was married to Alice Kliewer, daughter of John P. and Eva Jantz Kliewer of this congregation, and together they were privileged to enjoy the companionship of marriage for over 39 years.

A loyal member of the Gnadenberg church, "Pete" as he was known by all, served many years in such capacities as Sunday school superintendent, Sunday school teacher, member of the church board and in other areas of church service. Always interested in the welfare of this community, he also served as district school board member where he effectively put his Christian principles into action.

While the outward events of his life are few and relatively undramatic, living, as he did, his entire life on the farm where he was born, the weight of his influence and opinion was always felt when issues involving right and wrong were at stake. His robust sincerity and unashamed honesty were his ever-present stock in trade. It has been well said that "he lived a modest life with nobility."

On March 12, 1950, he suffered a stroke, partially paralyzing him. After spending a month in the Bethel Deaconess hospital he was again at home and for several years enjoyed some limited activity. He appreciated the opportunity to witness the cornerstone laying of the new church. Upon visiting the Bethel College Historical Library this fall he said, "I like to see all these books, even if I can't read them."

Early in November he suffered a relapse and was taken to the Bethel Deaconess hospital where he passed quietly away to be with his Lord on the morning of November 11, 1953, having attained the age of 72 years and nine months. He ran with patience the race that was set before him. He leaves his wife, Alice, two brothers H. P. Schmidt and J. B. Schmidt, and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, Nov. 14, 1953 at the Moody funeral chapel at 1:15 followed by services at the Gnadenberg church at 2:00. Rev. A. A. Schmidt led the service at the chapel. Rev. Herbert Miller and Rev. J. J. Voth led the services at the church. John F. Schmidt spoke the closing prayer at the graveside. Interment was made in the church cemetery.

The Mennonite obituary: 1954 Jan 5 p. 16