Koehn, Lizzie Jantz (1881-1954)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1954 Aug 12 p. 9

Birth date: 1881 Aug 16

text of obituary:

MRS. LIZZIE KOEHN

Lizzie (Jantz) Koehn, our beloved mother, was born to Jacob and Eva Jantz on August 16, 1881, at Lehigh, Kansas and passed away on July 20, 1954, at the age of 72 years, 11 months and four days. She spent most of her life in this community in Kansas.

On Feb. 27, 1905, she was joined in marriage to John Koehn by Tobias Unruh. To this union were born eight children, five daughters and three sons. Father and mother shared joys and sorrows for over 38 years, until May 11, 1943, when father was taken from our family circle.

In 1900, she remembered her Creator by yielding her heart and life to the Lord, and on Nov. 4 she was baptized upon confession of her faith by Tobias Unruh. She became a member of the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, remaining faithful unto the end.

Mother had her struggles, toils and cares of life but would look to Him who died on Calvary and with a steadfast hope press onward. She was interested in the church, attending services whenever possible, and was much concerned for the salvation of her children.

She had been in failing health for the past two years. On May 26 she became critically ill and was taken to the hospital. All medical aid was of no avail for when the Lord summons, one must answer. At times she suffered intensely but she was willing to let the Lord have His way. Before going to the hospital she said that at times, through faith, she had such joy that she could hardly wait until she was in Heaven. Several times, during her stay in the hospital she mentioned that she wished she could see all her children and grandchildren go to heaven. We believe the Gracious Lord has accepted her.

She leaves to mourn her departure five daughters, Rachel Koehn of Hillsboro, Rena, (Mrs. Martin Koehn) and Malinda (Mrs. Rueben [sic Reuben] Becker) of Galva, Hulda (Mrs. Oren Koehn) of Canton, Neva (Mrs. Dave Isaac) of Durham; two sons, Orlie of Montezuma and Harvey of McPherson; four sons-in-law, two daughters-in-law, 17 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, four sisters and three brothers, with other relatives and friends. Her husband, one son and one granddaughter preceded her in death.

Funeral services were held July 22, 1954, at the Lonetree Mennonite church with Min. Frank Unruh in charge. —The Children.