Benner, Rhine W. (1889-1974)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1974 Apr 25 p. 11

Birth date: 1889 Nov 7

text of obituary:

RHINE W. BENNER

Rhine W. Benner, son of Enos D. and Marie Wiegner Benner, was born near Telford, Pa. on Nov. 7, 1889; died suddenly while visiting members of his family Sunday, Mar. 3, 1974 at the age of 84.

On June 5, 1911 he and Anna Nice Stoudt of Souderton, Pa. were married. Four years later they moved into the mission home near Job, W. Va. which was under the Virginia Mennonite Conference. Bro. Benner walked many miles over the mountains through all kinds of weather to fill appointments and take care of the mission's activities and responsibilities. Later a horse and buggy was a big help, especially with two small children in the family.

On May 19, 1916 he was ordained a minister and faithfully served God and the church as long as his health permitted. Bro. and Sister Benner spent several winters near Sarasota, Fla. where they made many friends. Anna died in 1959.

On July 17, 1960 he married Mildred Loucks of Canton, Kan. They also made their home in West Virginia but spent winters in Florida or near Estacada, Ore.

After only five and a half years, on Jan. 25, 1966, Mildred was also taken from him by death. Soon after her death he entered the Virginia Mennonite Home near Harrisonburg. For several years he was in charge of the morning devotional period. After his eyesight failed he continued to see that the chapel was open and ready for services.

At the request of Christian Light Publications a book, "Allegheny Gospel Trails," was written by Mrs. Virginia Crider, describing some of the Benner family experiences.

He is survived by seven children, James and Rhoda, Mrs. Charles Hertzler, both of Harrisonburg, Va., Elva, Mrs. Earl Champ, Cabins, W. Va., Timothy of Intercourse, Pa., Millard and Evelyn, Mrs. Lewis Swartzentruber, of Greenwood, Del., and Daniel, West Lafayette, Ohio; 28 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted at the North Fork Church, Cabins, W. Va. by Bishops Floyd Horst and John Risser. Burial was made beside Anna in the Bethel Cemetery near Job, W. Va.