Penner, John D. (1850-1929)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1929 Apr 10 p. 4

Birth date: 1850 May 19

text of obituary:

John D. Penner

John Penner was born May 19, 1850 in West Prussia, Germany. His parents were Henry and Margaret Penner, nee Entz. In 1875 he was batized [sic] upon confession of his faith in Christ by the elder Gerhard Penner. The following year the Penner family came to America. Their first destination was Halstead, Kan., then after some time locating near Whitewater. Here Mr. Penner joined the Emmaus church in which he has been an active member.

Dec. 28, 1882 he was married in Elizabeth Quiring of Newton, which union was severed by death April 1, 1886. Again Jan. 6, 1887 he was joined in marriage to Auguste Janzen. This union was blessed, with 3 children, the youngest of which died in infancy. Nov. 10, 1889 the Lord called this second companion from his side. On Dec. 22, 1891 he married Wilhelmine Regier nee Eichhorn of Elbing and she preceded her husband on May 20, 1909.

Since that time his path became rather lonely; but God's promises sustained him to the end. The departed was a lover of song and often was found gathering children about him, enjoying himself with them. Also the cause of Missions was very dear to his heart. he made liberal contributions, his last signature being to this worthy cause.

In his later years he was suffering with kidney trouble and finally cancer of the stomach. He suffered patiently. He kindly appreciated visits that would strengthen him on his homeward journey.

He counted it a great privilege to be present at baptism service at the church, when one of his granddaughters confessed Christ in baptism, and also though at home, to partake of the communion. Not unexpected yet seemingly too soon for his family, the hour separation had come.

He died April 5 at 12:45 A. M. His age being 69 years, 10 months 7 days. He leaves to mourn his departure 2 daughters, Mrs. B. P. Regier of Elbing, Mrs. J. E. Regier of Whitewater and their husbands and families (being 14 grand children). One brother, Mr. Henry Penner of Potwin and many relatives and friends.

When my final farewell to the world I have said,
And gladly lie down to my rest;
When softly the watchers shall say "He is dead"
And fold my pale hands o'er my breast;
And when with my glorified vision at last
The walls of "That City" I see,
Will anyone then at the beautiful gate,
Be waiting and watching for me?

Contributed.