Jantz, Olga Schmidt (1895-1997)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1997 Jan 23 p. 11

Birth date: 1895 Jul 19

text of obituary:

OLGA S. JANTZ

Olga S. Jantz, 101, died Dec. 6, 1996, at the Memorial Home for the Aged, Moundridge, Kan.

She was born July 19, 1895, in rural Whitewater, Kan., to Henry P. and Marie E. Schmidt, the second oldest of 11 children. Since the first four children born to the Schmidts were daughters, Olga was assigned to help her father with the farm work. In her late teens she worked for neighbors as domestic help.

The church played a major part in her life, with the youth group providing the social activities. She was baptized in Grace Hill Mennonite Church, Whitewater. She attended Penner's Bible Academy in Hillsboro, completing two years of work in one year.

Olga married Peter C. Jantz on June 12, 1916, at the Grace Hill Church after Peter's graduation from Bethel Academy in North Newton. The couple returned to Peter's home at Ruff, Wash. During the first nine years of married life, Peter taught country school and farmed before moving to Odessa, Wash., to become the grade school principal. The present grade school in Odessa is named in his honor for his 28 years of service in the school and community. After her youngest child left for college, Olga spent many hours as a volunteer office receptionist. The family was active in Menno Mennonite Church of Ritzville. Olga frequently hosted church conference and college representatives. Her home was known for the hospitality and welcome guests received.

Upon retiring in 1954, the couple moved to North Newton, Kan., and joined Bethel College Mennonite Church. After eight years in their new home, Peter died. Olga continued living in her home until 1989 when she moved to the Memorial Home at Moundridge.

Olga and Peter had three children, Willard of Prairie Village, Adelia Stucky of Moundridge and Vern of North Newton. Olga had 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.