Decker, Gilmer Jennings (1935-1936)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1936 Sep 16 p. 3

Birth date: 1935 Apr 21

text of obituary:

Gilmer Jennings Decker

It was on a bright Easter morning, April 21, 1935, when there came to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Alva Decker a bright little baby boy, whom they named Gilmer Jennings.

He was a very welcome addition to the family circle, dearly loved , and an added joy to the little home. The family at that time lived near Roxbury, Kansas.

But he lived to gladden our hearts only 1 year, 4 months and 20 days. On Sept. 1, 1936, he met with an automobile accident which caused his sudden death. All that loving hands could do was done, but in vain, for God saw the need of him and took him, a sweet flower to bloom forever in Heaven.

Little Gillie, as he was called, was loved by everyone who knew him, and he was the joy of our home and hearts. His parents, and one brother, Glannon Alva, remain. He is survived also by his grandparents and many other relatives.

We have lost our darling Gilmer
He has bid us all adieu.
He has gone to live in Heaven
And his form is lost to view.
Oh, that dear one, how we loved him,
Oh, how hard to give him up.
But an angel came from heaven
And removed him from our flock.
I shall not forget the sweet smile
You wore on your little face;
It has left a sweet memory
That nothing can efface.
Since you left us, little darling,
And went to heaven far away
We miss you more and more each day.
None but hearts can tell
The time will come, little Gillie
That we may with you dwell.

The funeral services were held on Friday forenoon, Sept. 4, 1936, at nine o'clock at the home. A quartet sang: "Look Up With Fearless Eye." Rev. H. H. Schmidt read Gen. 22, 1-14, and made a few remarks which were followed by prayer and song.

The church services were held at the Peace Valley church led by Rev. H. H. Schmidt. Scripture reading, 1 Peter 1, 3-12, was followed by prayer. Rev. J. H. Epp preached in English, using 2 Sam. 12, 22 and 23 for his text. Very appropriate songs were sung at intervals. Rev. J. J. Ratzlaff read Rev. 21 at the grave, made a few remarks and closed with prayer.

After the services the close relatives and friends met at the home of Grandparents Tobias Decker for a lunch. — The Bereaved Family.