Dirks, Tobias (1858-1931)

Christlicher Bundesbote obituary: 1931 Jul 28 p. 14

Birth date: 1858 Dec 25

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1931 Jul 15 p. 4

text of obituary:

Tobias Dirks

Tobias Dirks, the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Dirks was born in the village Karolswalde, Poland, Russia, Dec. 25, 1858. He was baptized March 22, 1874 by Tobias Unruh and joined the Mennonite church at Karolswalde.

He left Karolswalde with his parents in 1874, and moved to Molosh village, Waldheim. Here he was married to Miss Eva Wedel in 1878. In July, 1880, they left village Waldheim for a trip through Asia, and came to the United States in 1884. The main reason for coming to the United States was for religious freedom. In America they made their home north of Burrton, where they resided until 1919. He joined the Hoffnungsau Mennonite Church while residing at that place, in which he has been a faithful member. In the fall of 1919 he moved to Buhler to retire. This remained his home until his death.

This union was blessed with thirteen children, eight sons and five daughters, four of whom have preceeded [sic] him in death. They were privileged to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 1928. They enjoyed their wedded life 52 years, 6 months and 5 days.

He had been failing in health for some time and it became serious the last three days. he had a light stroke on Saturday, June 27th, and a more serious one Monday at 6 p. m., after which he was unconscious and helpless until Tuesday morning, June 30, 1931 until 8:30 when he quietly passed away to his reward. He was ready for the call of his Christ to come. his last days were filled with a desire to go, and again and again he would tell us that Christ had saved him thru grace. he had attained the age of 72 years, 6 months and 5 days.

He leaves to mourn, his departure, his wife, 4 daughters and 5 sons, 3 sons-in-law, 4 daughters-in-law, and 26 grandchildren. Also 3 brothers and one sister in South Dakota, one sister in Canada, and two brothers in Kansas.

We mourn but not as such that have no hope, for we know that he has attained eternal joy.

Mother and family.

Funeral services were held from the Hoffnungsau church last Friday afternoon and interment was in the Hoffnungsau cemetery.