Goossen, Andrew P. (1881-1954)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1954 Apr 22 p. 12

Birth date: 1881 jAN 20

text of obituary:

ANDREW P. GOOSSEN

Andrew P. Goossen was born Jan. 20, 1881, the son of John and Margaret Goossen, nee Penner.

He had the privilege of growing up in a Christian home and received the care and training of loving parents. His education was received in the Mennonite parochial school and the public school at Beatrice, Neb.

On May 22, 1899, he was baptized upon his own confession of faith in Christ by Elder Gerhard Penner, and united with the First Mennonite church of Beatrice, of which he remained a lifelong, active member. Teaching Sunday school and serving on the hospital board were areas of service in which he had special interest.

On April 27, 1911, he was united in marriage to Helen Penner. They established their home on a farm northwest of Beatrice. Together they shared joys and cares of life for nearly 43 years. The observance of the 25th wedding anniversary was a highlight of their experiences. To this union were born five children, one of whom the Lord saw fit to take to himself in infancy.

Farming was the occupation he followed to secure a livelihood for the family. In the spring of 1946 he retired from farming but for several years thereafter served as custodian of his church.

During his later years he experienced special joy in the presence and fellowship of his grandchildren.

In the winter of 1950 it became noticeable that his health was beginning to fail. Several times he was hospitalized, always receiving much tender and loving care. Though there were periods of improvement, his general health continued to fail. The last time he entered the hospital was on March 27, 1954. In the evening of March 30 the Lord permitted him to pass from this earthly life to his Eternal Glory. He reached the age of 73 years, two months and 10 days.

Those whom he leaves to cherish his loving kindness and who will feel his physical absence most keenly are his wife, Helen; his daughter, Gertrude, Mrs. John D, Wiebe; his three sons, Theodor, Henry and William; two daughters-in-law; one son-in-law; eight grandchildren; two sisters; one brother; his mother-in-law and many relatives and friends.