Unruh, Peter J. (1885-1959)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1959 Jun 11 p. 8

Birth date: 1885 Dec 13

text of obituary:

PETER J. UNRUH

Peter J. Unruh, son of John B. and Elizabeth Unruh, was born Dec. 13, 1885, near Marion, South Dakota. He passed away April 26, 1959, at his home near Canton, Kansas at the age of 73 years, four months and 13 days. Death was caused by hear complications.

In 1899 the Unruh family moved from South Dakota to Kansas, making their home in McPherson County. Here father lived the remaining days of his life.

At the age of 24 years, father had an experience with the Lord and accepted Christ as his personal Saviour. Upon confessing his sins and his faith in the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ, he was baptized March 28, 1909, and united with the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite. He was a loyal member and faithfully served his Master the remaining days of his life.

On August 8, 1909, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Becker. On Jan. 4, 1916, his companion was taken from his side after sharing the blessings of life for a period of six years, four months and 27 days. This union was blest with two daughters.

On May 28, 1916, he was united in marriage with Eva Jantz, with whom he shared the joys and sorrows of life for 42 years, 10 months and 29 days. This union was blest with three daughters and one son.

He was a kind and loving father and grandfather. A good provider and sincere in all his responsibilities, he was always willing to share. He often acknowledged his failures. He was a cheerful giver, active and helpful in supporting church and community projects. His happy and cheerful disposition won him many friends, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Father enjoyed good health until recently, when he began to notice that he would get unusually tired. Upon medical examination he learned that his was due to a heart condition. He realized what this might mean, and began setting his house in order.

Sunday afternoon, April 26, while visiting with relatives in his home, suddenly at 4:39 without word or warning his soul took its flight and within a few moments he was peacefully asleep in eternal rest. We have the confidence that he has left us with a living hope for a glorious resurrection.

He leaves to mourn his sudden and unexpected departure his sorrowing companion; four daughters, Eva, Mrs. Alpha Wedel of Galva, Marie of the home, Esther, Mrs. Ed Koehn of Tribune, Elsie, Mrs. Leland Unruh of Canton; three sons, Willard of Denver, Colo., Floyd and Ervin Jantz of Canton; three daughter-in-laws [sic], June Unruh, Elma and Della Jantz; his step-mother, Mrs. John B. Unruh of Galva; 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; five brothers, Will of Nevada, Mo., Abe of Montezuma, Isaac and Jake of Greensburg, and Dave of Galva; three sisters, Nettie, Mrs. Dave Becker of Moundridge, Mary, Mrs. Jake Becker of Galva, Lena, Mrs. Jake Unruh of Halstead; and a host of relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents, three sisters, and a little brother and daughter who died in infancy.

Funeral services were held April 29, 1959, at the Lone Tree church. Min. Jonas B. Koehn brought the message, speaking from James 4:13-16 and Rev. 2:10. The body was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.