Unruh, Benjamin P. (1873-1953)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1953 Sep 3 p. 9

Birth date: 1873 Jan 6

text of obituary:

BENJAMIN P. UNRUH

Benjamin P., oldest son of Peter A. and Susan (Kane) Unruh, was born in Oustroge, Poland on Jan. 6, 1873, and departed this life at his home, Harper, Kans. May 12, 1953, at the age of 80 years, four months, and six days.

He was preceded in death by his companion, Martha on Feb. 28, 1935, his parents, two sisters, and four brothers. Also there is one brother whose whereabouts is unknown.

At the age of two years, he migrated to America with his parents. They resided in Pennsylvania approximately two years, moved to Pawnee Rock, Kans., then to Iowa and South Dakota, then to Garden City, Mo. The latter he often referred to as his boyhood home.

In his late teens he accepted Christ as his personal Saviour, and united with the Bethel Mennonite congregation near Garden City, Mo. He remained faithful to Christ until death.

In the early 1900's he was united in marriage with Martha, daughter of Emanuel and Margaret Hostetler. This union was blessed with four foster children, Howard O. of Havana, Ill., Paul M. of Moline, Ill., Mary W. of the home, Hattie B., Mrs. Frank Russel of Wichita, Kans.

He leaves to mourn his departure his four foster children, two sisters, Mrs. Anna Hirsh of Downey, Calif., and Mary, Mrs. Herbert Bayne of Parksville, Mo., two brothers, John C. Unruh of Linnwood, Calif., and Daniel J. Unruh of Harper; 12 grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

He earned his livelihood as a carpenter, his lifetime occupation. He was sincere in his beliefs, earnest in his convictions, loved and appreciated by all who knew him. His passing will be remembered by those who knew him best.