Graber, Peter J. P. (1865-1955)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1955 Nov 3 p. 8

Birth date: 1865 Apr 23

text of obituary:

Freeman Pioneer Died At Age 90

Marion, S. D. — Funeral services for Peter J. P. Graber, one of this community’s pioneer Mennonite settlers, were held at the Salem Mennonite Church near Freeman on Oct. 27. He passed away Oct. 25 at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Herman Leder, near Marion, having reached the age of 90.

Survivors include his aged wife and six children.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1955 Nov 17 p. 8

text of obituary:

PETER J. P. GRABER

Peter J. P. Graber, son of Jacob and Maria Graber, was born in Kotasuwka [sic Kotosufka, Kutusovka], Russia, an April 23, 1865. He migrated to America with his parents in the spring of 1883 at the age of 17 and settled in Turner County, S. D.

He was baptized by Rev. Jacob Stucky and was a member of the Zion Mennonite church until it was destroyed by a storm. Thereupon he joined the Salem Zion church. In 1908 he became a charter member of the Salem church.

On Dec. 9, 1891, he was united in marriage with Freni Schrag. They shared life together for almost 64 years, 63 of which were spent on the farm they established. To this union were born nine children, two of whom preceded their father in death, Anna in infancy and Henry at the age of 44.

Due to an accident in childhood he had a speech defect which handicapped him throughout his life, but he always enjoyed visitors and was a faithful attendant at worship services. When church attendance became difficult because of infirmities, he greatly appreciated the radio ministry. He served as custodian of the church for over 30 years.

Father enjoyed good health till he attained a ripe old age. A heart condition which developed a few years ago slowly sapped his strength. Since March the parents have been taken care of in the homes of the children. Father bore his infirmities very patiently but longed for release, which was granted him on Oct. 25, 1955, at the age of 90 years, six months and two days.

His passing is mourned by his wife, two daughters, Ella (Mrs. Herman Leder), Tillie (Mrs. Ed. G. Tschetter); five sons, Jonath., Edwin, John, Paul, Felix; two sons-in-law, four daughters-in-law, 10 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, one sister and two brothers.

We grieve but have the blessed assurance that he ”knew in whom he believed, and was persuaded that God is able to keep that which was committed unto Him against that day.”

The funeral was held on Oct. 27 at the Salem Church near Freeman, S. D., with Rev. J. Herbert Fretz officiating.