Schowalter, Irene M. Eymann (1884-1960)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary:1960 Jan 7 p. 8

Birth date: 1884 Dec 20

text of obituary:

IRENE M. SCHOWALTER

Irene M. Schowalter, nee Eymann, was born on Dec. 20, 1884 in Donnellson, Iowa, and passed away in her home in Cucamonga, Calif. on Dec. 12, 1959, reaching the age of 74 years less one week.

From Iowa she with the family came to Reedley, Calif. where they resided one year before establishing a home at Upland in 1904. On Dec. 11, 1913, she was married to Paul F. Schowalter, also of Upland. Her husband, a citrus grower, established a home for them in the Upland-Cucamonga area.

In later years both developed a heart condition which forced them into complete retirement. They built a comfortable home on their acreage on Baker Ave., Cucamonga, but had enjoyed it only a year when her husband suddenly succumbed to a heart seizure. Since she could not live alone her son Donovan with his family moved in with her. For two years she lived happily in this family circle.

Through all the years she was a consecrated member of the First Mennonite church of Upland, sparing no time or effort in her services. For a number of years she was teacher in the Primary department, a member of the Serving Others circle and of the choir. Her rich alto voice was silenced only when her heart condition made it necessary. She still was a member of the church's housekeeping committee and spent the last day of her life inspecting choir robes and getting them heady [sic] for Sunday's service.

In the stillness of the night, she heard her Master's call and answered it. Not until morning did her family know that life had departed.

Survivors are a daughter, Mrs. Marilyn Biel of Mar Vista; a son, Donovan Schowalter of Cucamonga; four sisters, Mrs. A. J. Ruth and Mrs. L. L. Harms, both of Upland, Mrs. Harry Ledig of Alta Loma, and Mrs. Willard Goerz of Sommerset; and six grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted in the church by her pastor, Rev. Paul Goering, followed by interment in Bellevue cemetery.

The Mennonite obituary: 1960 Jan 26 p. 63