Decker, Ben F. (1869-1963)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1963 May 9 p. 8

Birth date: 1869 Sep 14

text of obituary:

BEN F. DECKER

Ben F. Decker, son of Johann and Katherina [sic Katharina] (Richert) Decker, was born in Osterog, Poland on Sept. 14, 1869. On March 2, 1963 the Lord beckoned him to his eternal home at the age of 93 years, five months, and 16 days.

Father's first four years were spent in Poland. In 1874 he came with his parents to America. With others from Poland his parents resided at Moundridge, Kan. In this wide open country father's experiences were numerous and of great variety and only those who visited him could grasp the excitement and hardships of pioneer days.

On Dec. 8,1890, father and Susana Buller were joined in holy matrimony. In 1891 when the Cherokee Strip was opened in Oklahoma, he made the run and staked out some land. This land was contested and instead of causing hard feelings, he gave up the claim and bought a farm near Lahoma. In1918 he moved to Colorado but returned to Enid in 1920.

These early days in Oklahoma were difficult. Often the winter looked bleak, and dismal because the harvest had been small, but father always took new courage for he believed that tomorrow would bring forth a better day. Faithfully he cared for his family and home. The church was also an integral part of his life.

Mr. Decker was baptized upon his profession of faith in 1892. He joined the New Hopedale Mennonite Church and sought to serve God through it.

After he reached the age of retirement he and his wife moved to Enid. Here his wife was called Home. He remained active until two years ago when it became apparent that added care was necessary. He went to the Fairview Fellowship Home, which he enjoyed.

Ben Decker leaves behind a daughter, Mrs. L. A. (Millie) Maphet of Enid; three sons, Albert, Lincoln, and Milton, all of Lahoma; two sisters, Mrs. Lizzie Hodel of Moundridge, Kan. and Mrs. Annie Wedal [sic Anna Wedel] of Galva, Kan.; three brothers, Jacob of Newton, Kan., David of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Jonas of Moundridge, Kan.; 16 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

Father's favorite song was “There is a Fountain.” This song he knew by memory and sang triumphantly in his final days here upon earth. Services were held March 5, 1963, in the New Hopedale Mennonite Church, Meno, with Rev. Ben Friesen officiating. Burial was made in the New Hopedale cemetery beside his wife.

The Mennonite obituary: 1963 Jun 18 p. 415