Willems, Jacob A. (1895-1976)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 1976 aug 06 p. 31

Birth date: 1895 July 02

text of obituary:

JACOB A. WILLEMS

Jacob A. Willems was born to Abram and Sarah Willems on July 2, 1895 in Jackson, Minnesota. He peacefully went home to be with his Lord on July 2, his 81st birthday. His family had moved to Saskatchewan in 1899, where he lived for the rest of his life. He accepted Christ as his Saviour and was baptized and joined the Brotherfield Mennonite Brethren Church in Waldheim in 1913. He remained a faithful member of this church for 63 years.

He attended Herbert Bible School in 1922-23, where he met Katharina Schroeder They were married on October 25, 1923 in Main Centre, Saskatchewan, and eventually hought a farm near Waldheim in 1926. Throughout his life he was a devoted member of the church, and an ardent believer in prayer. He saw many of his prayers answered . He derived much joy from service as Sunday School Superintendent, church janitor, and on the Board of Elders.

In 1965 he rented his farm to his son and became a very active antique collector; his collection grew to a point of pride and accomplishment. His health began to fail in spring, 1976, and led to his passing in July.

The funeral service was held in the Brotherfield Church on July 4, with Rev. Ben Doerksen speaking.

He leaves to mourn his beloved wife, Katharina; five daughters, Adeline and Kay (Mrs. Clinten) Schmidt of Winnipeg, Laura of Berlin, Germany, Evelyn (Mrs. Edwin) Buhler and Sharon (Mrs. Gordon) Klassen of Saskatchewan; six sons and their wives, Albert and Adeline, Walter and Amy, Victor and Carol, and Edward and Rosalie of Saskatchewan, Harold and Esther of Steinbach, Manitoba, and George ·and Rosella of St.Catharines; 27 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; three brothers; and many relatives and friends.