Schneider, William F. (1868-1946)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1946 Sep 5 p. 3

Birth date: 1868 Sep 17

text of obituary:

WILLIAM F. SCHNEIDER

William F. Schneider was born in Bohnhorst province, Hanover, Germany, September 17, 1868, and departed from this life at Bethel hospital, Newton, Kansas, August 17, 1946, at the age of 77 years and 11 months.

Due to the tight grip of military training in Germany, William's parents sent him as a boy of 16, with his older sister Minnie Schneider (Groneman) to America, where they made their home with their brother Fred in Brooklyn, N. Y. Four years later William came to Kansas and worked for different farmers. About 12 years later he settled in McPherson county on a farm 6 miles east of Moundridge, where he resided until his death.

On December 31, 1900, he was united in marriage to Mary Jantz, also of McPherson county. His beloved companion preceded him by six years almost to the day, August 15, 1940. To this union were born four sons and two daughters: Henry, Albert, Dan, Clarence, Clara and Minnie at the home. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, a brother, Fred, of New York, and as far as is known, a brother, Carl, in Germany, with other relatives and many friends.

At the age of 14 William was confirmed as a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church in Germany. We knew him as a friendly conversational person, as father, neighbor and friend. He could entertain one for hours talking about various experiences and subjects. During the last few months of his life he became more concerned about the welfare of his soul. At times he stated to different ones his doubts as to being prepared for eternity and his desire to become prepared. Later, while quite ill he called the family to his bedside, confessing to them. He often read the Bible. After this he stated he felt ready to go. We thus commit him into the hands of God, knowing "He doeth all things well."

A little over five years ago his health began to fail and doctors pronounced his illness as Hodgson's disease from which there was scarcely any chance of recovery. However, after prompt and careful treatment he improved.

He enjoyed only fair health for several years until last January and in March he underwent a major operation from which he never recovered. The last six weeks of his life he was bedfast most of the time. The last few days were passed in the hospital where the best of treatment was given, but to no avail. From an unconscious state of a number of hours, he quietly passed away.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 20, at the home and at the Meridian Mennonite church with Min. Milford Wenger and Min. Harry D. Wenger in charge. Bro. Wenger chose as his texts Deu. 32:29; Eccl. 3:1, 2; and Heb. 9:27-28. Burial was made in the nearby Meridian cemetery.