Goertzen, David D. (1885-1970)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1970 May 15 p. 27

Birth date: 1885 Dec 26

text of obituary:

DAVID D. GOERTZEN

It p,leased the Lord to take David D. Goertzen of St. Catharines, Ont. to his eternal home on February 15 after reaching the age of 84 years. He leaves to mourn, his wife, the former Katharina Dirks; five daughters, Mrs. John (Katie) Hiebert, St. Catharines, Anne, Toronto, Mrs. Jake (Eizaberth) Schmor, St. Catharines, Mrs. Pete (Martha) Peters, St. Catharines, and Mrs. Robert K. (Sara) Walker, Cayuga; two sisters and a brother.

David Goertzen was born on December 26, 1885 in Waldheim, Russia, the son of Rev. David and Anna (nee Hubert) Goertzen. He was converted in his 15th year and following baptism was received into the local Mennonite Brethren church. He was married to Katharina Dirks on May 11, 1913 and together they farmed at Waldheim until 1926 when the family came to Canada via Mexico and settled near Steinbach,, Manitoba. In 1937 they moved to St. Catharines where he had worked as a tool crib attendant at a 1ocal factory until his retirement.

The Lord brought many blessings into the family's life. During Mr. Goertzen's lifetime he was active as a lay preacher, and served also in Sunday school, youth work and the session of the church. In 1963 they were able to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary in good health together with children, friends and many relatives. It was a highlight for them.

He loved to sing the hymn, "In the lovely garden of Eden./Where God's palms are blooming./There is rest for the weary./There is rest for you." He now enjoys that rest.