Graber, Jacob B. (1881-1971)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1971 Dec 16 p. 11

Birth date: 1881 May 1

text of obituary:

JACOB B. GRABER

Jacob B. Graber, son of John B. and Mary Goering Graber, was born near Marion, S. D. on May 1, 1881. When a group of families from South Dakota decided to relocated, he as a three-year-old boy came with his parents to Pretty Prairie, Kan. in 1884. This was the first group of Mennonites to settle in this community.

Because of trying circumstances of pioneer life, his education was of necessity limited to elementary training which he received in a one-room country school near his parental home. This, however, did not limit his learning because of his ability to adapt himself to the circumstances of everyday life and his love for traveling.

He was baptized upon the profession of his faith in Christ on April 10, 1898 by Rev. J. J. Flickinger, and was received into the First Mennonite Church of Pretty Prairie, in which he remained a faithful member until the date of his departure.

As a member of the church, he gave himself unselfishly to faithful service in many capacities when and wherever he was asked and was able to serve.

On Nov. 24, 1903 he was united in holy wedlock with Elizabeth Goering. This union was always characterized by mutual love and devotion, and covered a span of 51 years, until her passing March 30, 1955. To this union were born two sons and four daughters. His godly life created an atmosphere in the home that will always be cherished by his children.

He enjoyed good health until the last six months of his life, during which time he was afflicted with much physical suffering. On Nov. 9, 1971 the Lord called him to his eternal Home.

He leaves to mourn his departure his six children: Martha, Mrs. Harvey L. Krehbiel, Albert; Frieda, Mrs. Marvin Schrag, Anna, Ella, and John; two sons-in-law, Harvey L. Krehbiel and Marvin Schrag; two daughters-in-law, Mrs. Albert Graber and Mrs. John Graber; six grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Ben B. Graber and Mrs. Ed P. Graber, as well as a host of relatives and friends.