Schmidt, Peter D. (1885-1976)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1976 Apr 15 p.30

Birth date: 1885 Feb 08

text of obituary:

PETER D. SCHMIDT

Peter D. Schmidt was born to Tobias and Justina Schmidt in Parker, South Dakota on February 18, 1885. In 1898 the family settled on a homestead north of Hepburn, Saskatchewan. Through his youth he experienced the hardships of the pioneer years. At the age of 21 he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour and Lord, and that same year was baptized and received into the Brotherfield Mennonite Brethren Church. He later joined the Hepburn Mennonite Brethren Church, where he remained a member for the rest of his life.

In 1910 he bought a half section of land near Hepburn, and one year later was married to Tena Wiens. Shortly after the marriage she died of tuberculosis, causing Mr. Schmidt much sorrow and soul searching.

The Lord was gracious, and he married Tina Friesen on July 19, 1914. The Schmidts armed west of Hepburn until 1928, and then moved to the town of Hepburn where he served as a grain buyer until retiring in 1953. After this he engaged in the insurance business until the age of 87.

He was respected and honoured by his family for the love and care he demonstrated, and for his faith and trust in the Lord in all circumstances of life. He enjoyed robust health until becoming ill with cancer in April, 1975. He passed away on February 29. He was predeceased by his firstborn son, a daughter Myrtle, and his wife, Tena. A funeral service was held March 4 at the Hepburn Mennonite Brethren Church with Pastor John E. Klassen officiating.

Left to mourn are three daughters, Velma (Mrs. J.) Janzen, Caroline (Mrs. W.) Fast, and Josephine (Mrs. N.) Ens; seven sons, Harry, Ernie, Edward, Allen, Toby, Alfred, and Wesley; 35 grandchildren; eight great· grandchildren and many friends.