Janz, Nicholas (1893-1974)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary:1975 Feb 07 p. 28

Birth date: 1893 Sep 18

text of obituary:

REV. NICHOLAS JANZ

Nicholas Janz was born September 18, 1893 in Rinnovka, Russia to Benjamin and Helena Janz, the youngest in a family of seven brothers and three sisters. The family came to Canada in 1903, settling first in Manitoba and later homesteading in Main Centre, Sask.

He accepted Christ as his Saviour at age 14; that same year, August 16, 1908, he was baptized and received into the Mennonite Brethren Church of Main Centre. This was the beginning of 66 years of faithful service for the Lord.

Having felt God's call upon him for service in the ministry, he attended Moody Bible Institute of Los Angeles. After graduation in 1921 he returned to Main Centre and began responsibilities in the church. His quiet and considerate dealing with people was a great asset in the counselling ministry God gave him throughout the years.

On October 3, 1929 he was united in marriage to Selma Defehr. In 1935 he was ordained. He taught in four Bible schools in Saskatchewan, was pastor in a number of churches and did a great deal of evangelistic work.

His family remembers how he loved to sing about his Saviour, and his strong voice has blessed many people over the years. Prayers was of utmost importance to him, and he could often be heard praying for others.

He retired from full-time pastoral duties at age 70, but found opportunities to serve in other places. In 1964, he and his wife went to India to be with their only daughter, Viola, who served in a school for missionaries' children. Here they took the responsibilities of 40 boys from grades two to six. Although it was hard work, they enjoyed it.

From 1967 to 1974 they lived in Herbert, Sask. where they also worked in the MCC depot. Not quite three months before his death they moved to Three Hills, Alta. to be with their children and grandchildren. He was unexpectedly called home December 27.

He leaves to mourn his loving wife, Selma; his daughter Viola; son-in-law, Kenneth Amstutz; two grandchildren and many friends and relatives. His parents, all his brothers and sisters and his only Son Harold predeceased him.

Rev. Jake Pauls spoke at the funeral, held in Miller Chapel, Three Hills, Alta. on December 31.