Schmidt, Earvey (1927-1956)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1956 Apr 26 p. 8

Birth date: 1927 Jan 11

text of obituary:

EARVEY SCHMIDT

Earvey, son of Jonathan and Anna Schmidt, was born Jan. 11, 1927, near Rich Hill, Mo. and passed from this life to his eternal home April 2, 1956. About 11:30 a. m. while he was in the field on his tractor, a bolt of lightning struck, taking away his life instantly. He reached the age of 29 years, two months and 21 days.

Earvey grew to manhood in the Rich Hill community, where he also received his education.

From his youth he was an exceptionally kind, obedient and industrious son. At the early age of 13 he realized the Master's call to repentance, to which he yielded, and found remission of sins through the atoning blood of Christ. On July 21, 1940, he was added to the church by baptism, remaining a faithful and active member to the end.

On July 20, 1952, he took for his life's companion, Lenora Harms of Montezuma, Kan., where they were joined in the bonds of holy matrimony. To this union was born Carolyn Faye, who brought much joy to their home. They shared the joys and sorrows of life, enjoying wonderful companionship, for three years, nine months and 18 days.

Earvey was a kind and loving husband and father, deeply devoted to his wife and little daughter. He worked hard to provide a home for his family.

Soon after establishing a home, he was called into service. They spent two years in the "Inner Public Service Unit" at Tucumcari, N. M. Afterward they again made their home near his father's farm, working in partnership.

While in service Earvey acquired a special interest in the welfare of his fellowmen which was also very evident thereafter. He had a love for all men and a burden for souls. At the time of his death he was superintendent of the Sunday school. He has left a string of living testimonies and a good example.

On "Good Friday," just three days before God took him away, he brought an impressive personal testimony, telling of the great love of Jesus to men, and the supreme sacrifice He made for our salvation. We are thankful to God for the grace given to Earvey to live a victorious life, being constantly prepared for the end.

He leaves to mourn his departure his deeply grieved wife and little Carolyn Faye; his parents; one brother, Allen of Rich Hill, Mo.; three sisters, Evelyn, Mrs. Gerald Dirks of Rich hill, Violet, Mrs. Art Wedel of Tampa, Kan., and Mary Lou of the home; his Grandmother Koehn, and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Friday, April 6, at 2 p. m. Opening remarks were made by min. Harvey Yost, Scripture r3eading and words of comfort by Min. Frank Wenger. Burial took place in the Mennonite Cemetery near Rich Hill, Mo.