Goertz, Daniel (1896-1959)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1959 Mar 26 p. 8

Birth date: 1896 Apr 12

text of obituary:

DANIEL GOERTZ

Daniel Goertz was born near Hillsboro, Kan. on April 12, 1896. Most of his schooling was received in a country grade school near his home eight miles southwest of Hillsboro.

On June 5, 1917, he was baptized upon his confession of faith by the Rev. John Plenert, and was received into the membership of the Johannestal Mennonite Church.

Growing up on the farm, he recalled some happy childhood days. These were soon outnumbered by many chores and long days of regular farm work. This he did until his father died in 1937, and he with the rest of the family moved to town.

During the years following he often helped on farms, especially during harvest time. He also worked for people in town, and spent many days at home working in the yard. One of his major tasks was providing wood for the winter. In his diary of several years, the phrase, “I chopped wood” can be found repeatedly. Daniel never made long trips, though he often wished for one. Yet when he was gone a few days, he was always ready to come home. There he was best understood and there he could make his desires and disappointments known. His many little deeds around the house will not be forgotten.

He keenly realized his limitations and frailties and often became discouraged. He had many lonely hours, and especially within the last years, he would often be found in his room reading his Bible or working at his former school books and at times kneeling at his bedside. Thus he was able to come in humbleness to confess his wrong and express his love.

His illness began nearly a year ago. He underwent two operations which gave temporary relief. These experiences were very hard for him. They brought tests to body and mind. Especially during the last months did he long to go Home and rest. Realizing his condition, his thoughts were frequently directed upward and he gave us the assurance that the Lord was also his Saviour, his Shepherd and his Friend. He fell asleep quietly at 3:20 p. m. on Saturday, March 7.

His father, Peter Goertz, and his brother Ezra preceded him in death. He leaves his immediate family; his aged mother, Mrs. Minnie Goertz; four sisters, Lizzie and Ruby of the home, Sister Anna Marie of Newton, Mrs. Emma Guhr and his brother-in-law, Reinhold Guhr of Hillsboro; and many relatives. His presence in the home will be missed daily, but we rejoice that his suffering is over and that he is at Home where he longed to be.

Funeral services were held on March 10. At a service at 1:30 p. m. in the home for the benefit of his mother, Psalm 39 and John 11:21-27 were read and comforting remarks were based on II Cor. 4:17. For the services at the Johannestal church at 2:30 p.m., Psalm 103, Isaiah 35:3-10 and Matt. 5:3-11 were read. The sermon text was Matt. 11:28-30. Rev. Esko Loewen conducted both services. A mens' quartet from the church sang “Rock of Ages,” “Jesus, Lover of my Soul,” “Nearer my God to Thee,” and “Beyond the Sunset.” Burial was made in the Johannestal Cemetery. — The Family.