Koehn, Jonathan (1885-1948)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1948 Jun 17 p. 3

Birth date: 1885 Apr 19

text of obituary:

JONATHAN KOEHN

Jonathan Koehn, son of John and Sarah Koehn, was born April 19, 1885, in McPherson county, Kansas, and passed away May 8, 1948, in Mercy hospital, Moundridge, Kansas, reaching the age of 63 years and 18 days.

In his early youth his parents moved to Marion county, Kansas, near Durham, where he grew to manhood and received his education. Later they moved to Oklahoma, where he became burdened and felt his lost condition and felt the need of a Saviour. He repented and received forgiveness of his sins, and upon the confession of his faith was baptized by Min. Tobias Unruh added to the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, on May 13, 1906, in which he remained a faithful member.

On Oct. 13, 1907, he was married to Fanny Jantz, his now deeply bereaved companion, sharing joys and sorrows with her for over 41 years. To this union eight children were born.

Jonathan had a pleasant and friendly disposition and made friends wherever he went. He was sympathetic and tenderhearted, always reaching a helping hand to those in sorrow and need. He was a lover of home. Being industrious, he endeavored to provide these things that make life happy and content. However, during the years of depression the family met with many hardships and trials, yet always having faith in God that He would supply the need. They made their home in different parts of Kansas, spending most of their time at Protection, Greensburg, and lastly at Montezuma.

He often manifested a deep concern for the salvation of his family. The path which he walked was not always strewn with roses, but many times briers and thorns were in the way, causing him to seek the face of God and implore His help.

He enjoyed fair health until three years preceding his death. Medical aid was sought but with little result. He was hospitalized in Wichita and later in Mercy hospital. Moundridge, where he remained until his death.

Though suffering was severe at times, he bore it gladly and patiently. While in his sickness he again reviewed his past life, sanctifying himself and making every preparation to meet his God. He prayed much, also requesting prayer and song from those who visited him. He had a very clear and definite experience with the Lord, giving him a reassurance that he was at peace with his Creator. This brought great joy to his heart, as well as to the family.

In his intense suffering the last few days he prayed much that God should relieve him. The cause of his death was myocardial failure.

He leaves to mourn his departure his deeply bereaved companion; three daughters and four sons, James of Greensburg, Kansas, Leonard of Arrabe, Colorado, Mrs. Vernon (Pearl) Loucks of Canton, Kansas, Wilbur, Mrs. Vernon (Marjorie) Dirks, Modesto, Mrs. Milton Giesbrecht, and Emerson, all of Montezuma, Kansas; 10 grandchildren; one brother, Eli, of Miami, Florida; one sister, Mrs. Dan (Amanda) Dirks of Montezuma, and a host of relatives and friends. One daughter preceded him in death. We mourn not as those who have no hope, but believe that he is resting safely in the arms of Jesus in the Mansions of Glory.

Funeral services were held May 11, 1948, with the opening by Rev. David J. Koehn. Texts used by Rev. Ervin Harms were I Peter 1:3-7; II Cor. 4:16-18; Rev. 21:4-8.

Burial was made in the nearby cemetery.