Pankratz, Abraham (1859-1928)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1928 Oct 17 p. 5

Birth date: 1859 Jan 31

text of obituary:

Abe Pankratz

Inman, Kans. Oct 12 — The community was indeed saddened last Saturday when it was learned that our townsman, Abe Pankratz had passed away at the hospital in Newton.

His death has brought the bitter cup of sorrow to the lips of friends and relatives. He was one of nature's nobleman in its truest sense — brave, generous, manly. His was the soul of honor, and his friends and friendships were sacred to him. He had borne adversity bravely and enjoyed prosperity quietly. Mr. Pankratz served on the city council for a number of years and was always willing to help in the up-building of the community.

Abraham Panbratz was born Jan. 3125, 1859, in Pastwa South Russia. He was the oldest son of Henry and Maria Dick Pankratz.

He received his early education in Russia. In the year 1877 at the age of 18 years he immigrated to America nd settled on a farm in McPherson County, just 3 miles east of Inman, with his parents, sister, Anna, and brother, John, who have all preceeded [sic] him in death.

In the year 1894 he came to Inman, investing in his merchantile [sic] business which he successfully managed until he became ill in the spring of 1928.

He devoted the best years of his life to the faithful and loving care of his mother, who passed away at the age of 94 years, just 11 years ago on the same date of his death. He was a man of wonderful character, being kind and helpful to everyone. He was willing to help for any good cause and will be missed by the entire community.

In April of 1928 he became ill and upon the advice of his physicians he was taken to the Bethel Hospital at Newton, Kansas. After remaining here for three weeks, he had one more opportunity to come home but stayed only ten days after which he was again taken to the Bethel Hospital, where he remained a quite, non-complaining patient, until Saturday October 6, at 11:30 A. M. He enjoyed good health during his life time and passed away quietly and peacefully at the age of 69 years, 8 months and 5 days.

Surviving him are 1 half-brother, 3 half-sisters, a large number of nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

The funeral services were conducted in the Township Hall on Tuesday afternoon. It was one of the largest funerals held in Inman for years. Rev. D. C. Ewert officiated and was assisted by Rev. Klaas Kroeker and Rev. A. J. Dyck. A mixed octet of the Zoar congregation rendered a number of beautiful selections. The remains were laid to rest in the North Cemetery. — Inman Review.