Niessen, Aganetha Schultz (1882-1975)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1975 Apr 18 p. 31

Birth date: 1882 Oct 26

text of obituary:

(MRS.) AGANETHA NIESSEN

Aganetha Niessen, daughter of Jacob and Katerina Dick Schultz, was born on October 26, 1882 in Rosenbach, Fuerstenland, South Russia. Up to age 19 she resided in her native country. In 1901, she migrated with her parents to Canada. Winkler, Manitoba became her new home. In 1906, during a time of revival under the ministry of Rev. H. S . Voth, she gave her heart to the Lord, was baptized and became a member of the Mennonite Brethren Church, whose member she faithfully remained unto the end. In 1907 she moved with her parents to Herbert, Sask.

On Janury 19, 1908 she married Henry W. Niessen of Aberdeen, Sask. with Rev. Peter Penner officiating. They lived in Aberdeen until 1944. Nine children were born to them: Jacob, Sara, Henry, William, Tina, Tina, Clara, Arthur and William. Jacob, Henry, William and the first Tina died in infancy.

They were not spared hardships at Aberdeen, but by God's abundant grace, they overcame. In 1944, they moved to Clearbrook, B.C., greatly enjoying the milder climate and marvellous fellowship in the North Abbotsford MB Church.

In 1949 Mr. Niessen became ill with cancer and on August 16, 1950, he passed away. They enjoyed 42 years of married life. Throughout these months of suffering, she proved to be a compassionate nurse with much previous experience nursing his parents in their home. Her suffering daughter Tina went to be with the Lord on January 17, 1960.

She was endowed with the gift of hospitality. This she selflessly practiced all her life to family and friends .

In 1966 she moved to the Tabor Home. The kindness of Mr. and Mrs. Abe Friesen, houseparents, was greatly appreciated. After a few years she was hospitalized and then lived with her children, Clara and Cornie, for nearly a year. She passed away January 16 at age 92.

Spiritually she retained clarity of thought In her suffering, she was patient and thankful for every kindness shown to her. She was predeceased by four children in infancy, her husband in 1950 and by the second Tina in 1960. Her loss is mourned by her children: Sara and Henry Classen of Vancouver, Clara and Cornie Klassen of Abbotsford, B.C., Arthur and Ruth Niessen of Richmond, B.C., and William and Katie Niessen of Kelowna, B.C.; 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one sister, (Mrs.) Anna Friesen; and many relatives and friends.

The funeral was held January 21 in the Clearbrook Mennonite Brethren Church with Rev. Herman Lenzmann and Rev. H. G. Classen, a son-in-law, officiating.