Wedel, Peter J. (1871-1951)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary:1951 Jun 7 p. 1;

Birth date: 1871 Jan 17

text of obituary:

Well Known Educator Called Away In Death

DR. P. J. WEDEL, NORTH NEWTON, DIED UNEXPECTEDLY MONDAY, JUNE 4

Dr. Peter J. Wedel, 80, widely known retired Bethel College professor died at the Bethel Deaconess Hospital at 1:30 p.m. Monday, June 4, a few hours after having suffered a fatal heart attack.

Dr. Wedel had been in failing health, but was able to attend services and mingle with friends until the day of his death.

He was born in Wolhynia, Russia, Jan. 17, 1871, the son of Jacob and Katherine Wedel with whom he emigrated to America in 1874. After having studied and taught in various public schools and higher institutions, he became instructor in natural science and history at Bethel College, where he remained a faculty member for over 40 years. Although devoting himself mainly to the teaching of chemistry, be engaged also in writing and took active part in the work of his church and conference. Through his work and messages he exerted a positive Christian influence, not only upon his students but also far beyond his immediate community.

August 20, 1899, he was married to Lena A. Krehbiel, who preceded him in death some years ago. He is survived by one son and his family, Dr. Waldo R. Wedel, curator of the division of archealogy [sic], Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.; and two daughters Esther and Margaret, both of the home. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon, at 2:00 o’clock in the home and at 2:30 in the Bethel College chapel.

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1951 Jun 21 p. 9