Ratzlaff, Minnie Harder (1873-1953)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1953 Nov 19 p. 5

Birth date: 1873 Aug 25

text of obituary:

Pioneer Settler Died At Corn

Corn, Okla. — Death removed another of the pioneer settlers of this community with the passing of Mrs. J. C. (Minnie) Ratzlaff on Nov. 9. Funeral services were held Nov. 12 at the Mennonite Brethren church, of which she was a long-time member.

Mrs. Ratzlaff and her husband, who died in 1935, were both immigrants from Russia in 1874, coming to Oklahoma from Reno county, Kans. in 1899. In the early years they operated the post office, grocery and cream station in the former village of Shelly southwest of here.

The family moved to Rush Lake, Sask. in 1918, Mrs. Ratzlaff returning here after her husband’s death.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1953 Dec 3 p. 9

text of obituary:

MRS. J. C. RATZLAFF

Our loving and praying mother was born in South Russia, August 25, 1873. In 1874 she came with her parents, Herman H. Harder and Justina Fehderau, to America, settling in Reno County, Kansas. Here mother realized her lost condition and sought refuge in the blood of the Lamb. Finding her desired peace in Him, she was then upon her confession of faith through baptism received into the church June 14, 1892.

On Oct. 25, 1894, she was united in Holy Wedlock to John C. Ratzlaff. This happy union was blessed with six sons. In 1899 the parents came to Oklahoma, residing for several years in the Shelly community. In 1907 they established a residence in Corn, making the M. B. church their spiritual home. Many hardships and trials were overcome by the blood of the crucified One in these pioneer days. In 1918 the parents moved to Canada, and for 11 years they were privileged to share joy and happiness there.

On June 17, 1929 mother lost her loving husband. This was very hard for her but by His grace she could always bear the burdens. Circumstances arose that she could come back to Corn in 1934.

It has been a great joy for us to have mother so near. Her loyalty to God and the family can never be forgotten. She spent much of her time reading the Word and praying, and we could always realize that she had been with the Lord. in her sickness she mastered many Psalms which she later could quote to us.

Several years ago rheumatism caused her much suffering and pain. In 1942 she lost her eyesight but through much prayer and eye surgery she regained her vision on one eye. In all these sufferings she would never complain but would rather speak of the goodness of God.

On October 19, 1953, she suffered a stroke. She was taken to the Clinton hospital, where all possible aid was given. At times it seemed she would rally again, but as time advanced, we realized she was getting weaker. on November 9, 1953 at 3:00 p.m. the Lord answered our prayers and her request, and she was released of her earthly sufferings and went home to be with her Lord, reaching the age of 80 years, two months and 15 days.

She leaves to mourn her departure four sons, A. H. Ratzlaff of Corn, B. H. Ratzlaff of Abbotsford, B. C., C. J. Ratzlaff of Prairie View, Sask. and H. J. Ratzlaff,Sayre; four daughters-in-law, 15 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, five brothers, five sisters-in-law, and a host of relatives’ and friends.

We greatly mourn the passing of our saintly mother, but rejoice in the full assurance of seeing her again. — The Bereaved Children.