Franz, Heinrich L. (1882-1936)

Christlicher Bundesbote obituary: 1936 Jan 28 p. 13

Birth date: 1882 Jun 7

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1936 Jan 22 p. 2

Henry L. Franz

Henry L. Franz, a son of Leonard and Eva Franz, was born June 7, 1882, near Parker, S. Dakota. On Sept. 15, 1901 he was baptized upon his confession of faith by the Elder Joseph Kaufman in the old Salem church and received as member into the church. In the year of 1902 he came with his father and brothers and sisters to the state of Washington, settling near what is now the Warden district. On Nov. 13, 1913, he was married to Anna Ewert. the Lord has blessed this union with 7 children, one preceding him in death.

In 1917 the family moved to their present location north of Ruff. When the Salem Mennonite church at Ruff was organized he became one of its charter members in 1910. In 1933 the family transferred their membership to Menno. For many years he served as a deacon of the Salem church, likewise as superintendent of the Sunday school, and as S. S. teacher. He enjoyed this work and devoted himself fully to the task assigned. He also loved singing and served as song leader in many a capacity. He with three of his brothers constituted a male quartet to which everyone would listen with much pleasure and delight. Singing was so dear to him that he devoted much time in teaching this wonderful art to all of his children and enjoyed listening to the wonderful results of his efforts.

He was a beloved husband and a devoted father to his family. The Bible is a well-worn book in the home. As a member of the church he was loyal and faithful.

Sunday night Dec. 29 he became sick. He suffered intense pain and was brought to Odessa and from there rushed to Spokane to the St. Luke's hospital. Before leaving home Monday morning he took a brief time for prayer with his family, committing himself and his family entirely to the Lord. Certainly the Lord held him in readiness in a wonderful reply, and though the Lord has now taken him home. The family finds a wonderful comfort and assurance of his presence with the Lord. While kept under very strong hypos, yet when conscious on the day before his passing, while his wife, a son, and a brother stood around his bed, he made the statement so cheerfully, "I am so happy I can go home; I am satisfied." the manner in which this statement was given made such a deep impression upon the nurse standing near by, that frequently she would refer to this statement throughout the day. Early Thursday morning,Jan. 2, at 1 o"clock, he passed from this time to be with his Master and Savior.

He has attained an age of53 years, 6 months, 25 days. He leaves to mourn his so sudden and seemingly untimely death, his beloved wife, Anna Franz, 6 children, Herbert, Harold, Edna, Alvin, Earl, and Bernice, all at home. Five brothers, Leonard L. and Peter L. of Ritzville, William and Julius of Wapato, David L. of Auburn. two sisters, Mrs. Mary Allert of Pullman, and Susie Franz of Salem, Oregon; also many other relatives and friends. Though they mourn, yet they look forward to the reunion with the Lord.

Funeral services were held at the Menno Mennonite church Sunday, Jan. 5. Interment was made in the cemetery near the church, his pastor Rev. M. J. Galle officiating.

The Mennonite obituary: 1936 Jan 28 p. 15