Poetker, Jacob F. (1904-1969)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary Dec 12 p. 26

Birth date: 1904 Jan 24

text of obituary:

JACOB F. POETKER

Jacob F. Poetker of Morden, Man. passed away suddenly on October 17, 1969 at the age of 65 years.

He was born on January 24, 1904 in Alexandervolle, in South Russia, the son of Frank and Katherina (nee Berg) Poetker. He accepted Christ as his personal Saviour in his youth, basing his faith on John 6:37, " ... him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out." He was baptised upon the confession of his faith on June 10, 1924 at Rueckenau and accepted into the fellowship of the Mennonite Brethren Church.

On October 16, 1924 he was married to Mary Martens of Wiesenfeld, South Russia. As the circumstances in the Soviet Union became increasingly difficult, he was led of the Lord to emigrate to Canada in 1926. He came first to Osborne, Man. and then moved to the Cartwright - Lena area where he farmed for approximately 40 years. It was here on September 29, 1934 that the Lord saw fit to take his beloved wife home to be with Christ in glory, leaving behind five children. The Lord wonderfully provided for the family in that his mother, who was living with them, was able to help him during this time of need.

After being widower for two years, three months, he was married to Mary Wiens. The family circle was complete once again. With God's continued blessing, and with the support of his dear wife, material progress was also evident. The Lord blessed this union with five children as well.

Since he had dedicated his life to the Lord for service, he was privileged to share responsibilities in the church, serving as secretary, lay minister and then also for 18 years as church leader.

In 1966 he moved to Morden, keeping the farm and working as much as his health permitted. He was again privileged to become involved to some degree in the work of the church there.

His health fluctuated during the last few years so that he was compelled to spend time in the hospital, but he always managed to recuperate rather quickly.

Of late he had spent considerable time reading the Word, and in his prayers he seemed to be preoccupied with the importance of being prepared for the Lord's return. Today his faith has become a reality.

He leaves to mourn his sudden passing his wife, Mary, five sons, five daughters, three sons-in-law, five daughters-in-law and thirteen grandchildren, as well as many relatives and friends. Funeral service was held Tuesday, October 21, from the Morden Church with Rev. Walter Janzen and Rev. Frank H. Friesen serving. three months, he was married to Ma