Epp, Gerald Walter (1931-1934)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1934 Mar 21 p. 2

Birth date: 1931 Jun 2

text of obituary:

Gerald Walter Epp.

Gerald Walter Epp, little son of Bro. and Sis. Theodore and Matilda Epp, was born on June 2, 1931, in Hollywood (Los Angeles), California, where his parents were at the time attending the Bible Institute When the baby was seven weeks old, they came back to Oklahoma, and for the next year they were in the Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. On March 5, 1932, little Gerald was consecrated to the Lord, Dr. Ray, pastor of the Baptist church and Rev. J. B. Epp, grandfather of the child, officiating. Since May 29, 1932, the family lived in Goltry.

Little Gerald was a little slow in learning to speak; but lately he started so nicely, saying almost everything, in both English and German. He was at the age now where he was most lovable in every way, and always healthy. He began to want to help everywhere, but the loving Father in heaven saw fit to call him home — so soon.

A day before he became ill he showed only a little hoarseness and later showed slight ill feeling. During the night the doctor was called. On the next day a nurse was gotten from Enid, and after a few hours he was rushed to the Hospital at that same place. Several doctors and nurses did all that was in their power to help him, but double pneumonia together with swelling in the throat caused his quick death scarcely 18 hours after the doctor had been called.

He died very peacefully. Shortly before he passed away he pointed with his finger upward, his eyes almost sparkling as though he saw something very beautiful, perhaps a little glimpse into the Beyond was granted him. He was permitted to enter in — to be with Jesus, who died also for him that he might freely and happily enter into Glory.

He passed away on Tuesday, Febr. 27, at 8 o'clock in the evening. He reached the age of only 2 years, 8 months, and 25 days. he leaves to mourn his early death his parents, a little sister, Elanor Ruth; the grandparents on both sides, 7 aunts and 1 uncle, and many friends, young and old.

The bereaved parents who dedicated him to the Lord are exclaiming in full faith: The Lord gave; the Lord has taken; Blessed be the name of the Lord! — Contributed.