Epp, John F. (1883-1951)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1951 Oct 25 p. 6

Birth date: 1883 Sep 30

text of obituary:

— Mr. and Mrs. Dan Epp and family of North Newton were called to Henderson, Neb. due to the death of Mr. Epps father, Rev. John F. Epp, who passed away suddenly on Oct. 17. Funeral services were held Monday at the Bethesda Mennonite church of Henderson.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1951 Nov 8 p. 7

text of obituary:

REV. JOHN F. EPP

John F. Epp, son of John P. Epp and Kornelia Franz, was born at Henderson, Nebr., Sept. 30, 1883. He was baptized upon his confession of faith and received as a member in Bethesda Mennonite church May 23, 1904.

He entered holy wedlock with our departed mother, Catherine Bergen, Sept. 28, 1905. The Lord blessed this union with seven children, of whom one daughter died in the year 1919. This happy union of 39 years was ended when mother passed away June 1, 1944. They lived on the farm until 1943, after which time they moved to Henderson, Nebr.

Father lived a very busy and fruitful life. He was elected to the ministry March 19, 1916, and ordained October 1, 1916, as an evangelist. June 26, 1921, he was ordained to the full ministry of the Gospel and asked to serve as assistant minister of the Bethesda Mennonite church. He received the ordination as elder Nov. 23, 1924, serving the church in that capacity until his resignation on Jan. 1, 1934. He continued serving the church as an assistant minister till his death.

He was faithful to his high calling in Jesus Christ, giving his full support to his family, church, and the conference. One could list the many things that he has done and the positions that he has filled, but enumerations are of less value than the services rendered. May the Lord reward him is our prayer.

Father was a wise counselor to us as a family and to the church during his years in the ministry. We appreciate his courage and ability to face criticism and shall remember him for his forgiving spirit.

His latest decision was to attend the Mennonite World Conference to be held in Basel, Switzerland next summer.

He took a real interest in the community, which was in part revealed through his interest in the hospital. He helped with solicitation on Monday previous to his death. On the day of his death, October 17, 1951, he helped to officiate at a funeral, and upon returning to his home, he went out to do some light work, but came in because of a great pain in his chest. Within an hour, 6:15 pm., he departed to be with the Lord whom he loved and served. He reached the age of 68 years and 17 days.

He leaves to mourn his departure three daughters, Bertha, Mrs. John Thieszen of Stockham, Marie, Mrs. Daniel Thieszen of Henderson, Tena (foster) at home; four sons, Herman and Jacob of Henderson, Daniel of North Newton, Kansas, Aaron of Chicago; two sons-in-law; four daughters-in-law; 24 grandchildren; one great grandchild; one sister, Mrs. John W. Regier; three brothers, Peter and Gerhard of Henderson, Henry of Mt. Lake, Minn.

His favorite hymn, “My Jesus, I love Thee," will remain as his testimony for our comfort. — The Bereaved Family.