Vera Christine Oyer

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Died:
Meadows Mennonite Retirement Home

Buried:
East Bend Memorial Gardens

Verle married Margaret Vera Birkey on 29 Aug 1945 in Foosland, Champaign Co., IL. Margaret (daughter of Alvin Rudolph Birkey and Amelia Alberta Zehr) was born on 19 Sep 1924 in Foosland, Champaign Co., IL; died on 3 Jul 2010 in Meadows, McLean Co., IL; was buried on 7 Jul 2010 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Homemaker, Doctor’s Receptionist
• Religion: Mennonite
• USR1: Many Years Of Multiple Sclorosis

Notes:

Obituary:
GIBSON CITY – Margaret Vera Oyer, 85, of Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community, formerly of Gibson City and Foosland, died at 5 p.m. Saturday (July 3, 2010) at the retirement community.
Her memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 7, at the East Bend Mennonite Church, rural Fisher, with Rev. Michael Dean officiating. Burial will precede the service at 9:30 a.m. in the East Bend Memorial Gardens near the church. Visitation will be from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 6, at the Lamb Funeral Home, Gibson City, and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesday at the church.

Mrs. Oyer was born on Sept. 19, 1924, near Foosland, a daughter of Alvin and Amelia Zehr Birkey. She married Verle Christian Oyer on Aug. 29, 1945. He passed away on Feb. 10, 2003.
She is survived by two sons, Verle Curtis Oyer of Bloomington and Vance Gordon Oyer of Champaign; one daughter, Vera Christine Oyer of Decatur; one sister, Viola Stacey of Champaign; and one brother, Carroll "Kelly" (Minerva) Birkey of Paxton.
Her parents and six brothers also preceded her in death.

Mrs. Oyer attended rural Dixon school in East Bend Township, Champaign County, graduating from eighth grade and then remaining at home during the Depression to help her parents with the duties of a large family and farming until her marriage.
She later served as a nurse's aide at Gibson Manor Nursing Home for three years and as a receptionist in the office of Dr. George Elfers of Bellflower for 12 years.
She battled the progressively debilitating disease multiple sclerosis for 45 years, while maintaining her strong faith in God and engagement with life.

Since her baptism as a youth, she remained a member of East Bend Mennonite Church, where she served in many ways, including Sunday school teacher and superintendent, Bible school chair, and church co-historian with her husband.

She was a charter member of the Illinois Mennonite Historical and Genealogical Society. She enjoyed collecting angels, bells, and butterflies, sewing and knitting, jigsaw and word puzzles, researching genealogy, and conversing with people. Mrs. Oyer was deeply loved by her family, who are grateful to all who supported her in so many ways. Special thanks to the administration and staff of Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community and Advocate BroMenn Hospice for the wonderful care provided to her.

Memorials may be made to Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community, the East Bend Mennonite Church, or the Illinois Mennonite Historical and Genealogical Society.

——————



---------

Died:
Meadows Mennonite Retirement Home at 5:00 in the afternoon

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Memorial Gardens

Notes:

Married:
By J. A. Heiser

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite
• Baptism: 25 Oct 1903, Champaign Co., IL

Notes:

Obit:
Oyer, Samuel, son of Christian and Katherine (Zehr) Oyer, was born on May 7, 1886; died at Gibson Community Hospital, Gibson City, Ill., Nov. 23, 1983; aged 97 y. On Nov. 7, 1913, he was married to Elmira Naffziger, who died on Feb. 10, 1972. Surviving are 2 sons (Vilas and Verle Oyer), one daughter (Leta Eichelberger), 9 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 10 brothers and sisters. He was a member of East Bend Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held on Nov. 26, in charge of Paul O. King; interment in the East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

In 1902 Samuel was busy working in the timber cutting poles for the framework of the new barn his father Chris was building on their new farm. The Oyer family had moved from Roanoke to the Stormer farm that they had purchased in the spring.

Baptism:
East Bend Mennonite Church by Peter Zehr

Died:
Gibson City Hospital

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Samuel married Elmira M. Naffziger on 5 Nov 1913 in IL. Elmira (daughter of John William Naffziger and Mary Nellie Springer) was born on 17 Feb 1888 in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 10 Feb 1972 in Gibson City, Ford Co., IL; was buried on 12 Feb 1972 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Oyer, Elmira, daughter of John and Mary (Springer) Naffziger, was born in Hopedale, Ill., Feb. 17, 1888; died at Gibson City (Ill.) Hospital, Feb. 10, 1972; aged 83 y. 11 m. 24 d. On Nov. 5, 1913, she was married to Samuel Oyer, who survives. Also surviving are 2 sons (Vilas and Verle), one daughter (Leta Eichelberger) 9 grandchildren, one brother (Alphia Naffziger), and one sister (Leah - Mrs. Ted Springer). Four brothers and 2 sisters preceded her in death. She was a member of the East Bend Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held Feb. 12, in charge of Irvin Nussbaum; interment in East Bend Cemetery.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Notes:

Married:
By Peter Zehr at home of John Nafgizer

Other Events and Attributes:

• Education: Elementary Education at Dixon School
• Occupation: Farmer
• Reference Number: 6
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• USR1: Complication From A Stabbing
• Baptism: 21 Oct 1906, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
• Census: 1920, East Bend Twp., Champaign Co., IL
• Census: 1930, East Bend Twp., Champaign Co., IL

Notes:

Obit:
Birkey, Alvin R., son of Valentine and Phoebe (Good) Birkey, was born at Abilene, Kan., Nov. 13, 1891; died at the Burnham City Hospital, Champaign, Ill., Jan. 3, 1973; aged 81 y. 1 m. 21 d. On Jan. 29, 1913, he was married to Amelia Zehr, who preceded him in death on Sept. 19, 1965. Surviving are 6 sons (Ellis, Marvin, Floyd, Carroll, Ivan, and Delmar), 2 daughters (Viola - Mrs. Harve Stacey and Margaret - Mrs. Verle Oyer), 24 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 3 sisters (Katie - Mrs. Dan Zehr, Ada - Mrs. Glenn Foley, and Edna - Mrs. Harold Schertz), and 3 brothers (Joe, Joel, and Silas). He was preceded in death by one son (Roy), one grandchild, and 2 sisters. He was a member of the East Bend Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held, Jan. 6, in charge of Irvin Nussbaum; interment in the East Bend Cemetery.

Birth:
In a sod house

Baptism:
East Bend Mennonite Church, by Peter Zehr

Census:
Alvin, head, age 28; Amelia, wife, age 28; Ellis L., Viola E., Marvin A., Floyd D.

Census:
Alvin, head, age 38; Amelia, wife, age 38; Ellis, Viola, Marvin, Floyd, Ivan, Margaret, Carroll; Barbara Zehr, mother-in-law, age 72.

Died:
Burnham City Hospital

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Alvin married Amelia Alberta Zehr on 29 Jan 1913 in East Bend Twp., Champaign Co., IL. Amelia (daughter of Bishop Peter Zehr and Barbara Heiser) was born on 6 Oct 1891 in East Bend Twp., Champaign Co., IL; died on 19 Sep 1965 in Gibson City, Ford Co., IL; was buried on 22 Sep 1965 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Education: Six grades at Dixon School, then dropped out to work at home
• Occupation: Minister’s Daughter,farm Wife And Mother
• Reference Number: 7
• Religion: Amish/Mennonite, her father was first Bishop of East Bend Amish/Mennonite Church
• USR1: Liver Cancer
• Baptism: 21 Oct 1906, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

Notes:

Obit:
Birkey, Amelia A., daughter of Peter and Barbara (Heiser) Zehr, was born near Fisher, Ill., Oct. 6, 1891; died at the Gibson (Ill.) Community Hospital, Sept. 19, 1965; aged 73 y. 11 m. 13 d. On Jan. 29, 1913, she was married to Alvin R. Birkey, who survives. Also surviving are 6 sons and 2 daughters (Ellis, Marvin, Floyd, Ivan, Carroll, Delmar, Viola-Mrs. Harvey Stacey, and Margaret-Mrs. Verle Oyer), 24 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. She was a member of the East Bend Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held Sept. 22, in charge of Alton Horst and J. A. Heiser.

———————————————————

Amelia Zehr, the daughter of Bishop Peter and Barbara Heiser Zehr, was born in East Bend Township, Champaign County, Illinois, on October 6, 1891. The Peter Zehr homestead was located approximately 5 1/2 miles northeast of Fisher, Illinois. Amelia attended Dixon School where she was only allowed to finish six grades. She dropped out of school at this age to work at home. In those days it was not considered necessary, especially for girls, to go to school after they reached working age.
On January 29, 1913 Amelia was married to a neighbor boy, Alvin Birkey; both were 22 years of age. Amelia attended the East Bend Mennonite Church; her father was the first bishop. Being a minister's daughter, she was exposed to many of the church problems and also met many church officials and ministers who stopped at their home.
Amelia had a large family to look after, a garden to tend, and yet she was a person who saw the beauty in the things around her. She had artistic abilities that she expressed in many ways. She was an avid gardener and lover of plants. She also had a deep faith in her Lord and a great love for all her children. It must have been difficult for her to bury her sixth child, Roy Emery, when he died after being in the family only a few weeks. His casket nameplate told the story: Our Darling. Amelia also enjoyed reading and taught Sunday school classes at East Bend Mennonite Church.
About mid-life Amelia contracted diabetes and learned to inject herself with insulin when needed, but it was cancer of the liver that brought her death. After a lingering illness, Amelia passed away at the Gibson City Community Hospital on September 19, 1965. Her funeral was held at the East Bend Mennonite Church and she is buried in the East Bend Cemetery. Amelia was carried to her grave by the six sons she so dearly loved.

It was then used for at least some of the subsequent children, but ventually ended up with Bishop Peter and his wife Barbara. Most likely, all of their children used it, then it was given to Amelia (who married Alvin Birkey). It stayed with that family for many years until thier son, Delmar Gene, was born, and was the last person to sleep in the vintage bed. In July of 2023, the bed was gifted to Del and Donna’s family to keep, protect, and hand down at the appropriate time.}

Birth:
W. K. Newcomb attendant (according to Urbana Free Library index) See Book 1, page 145, Reel 1295930 #7986

Baptism:
East Bend Church by Peter Zehr

Died:
Gibson City Community Hospital

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Notes:

Witnesses to the marriage were Lizzie B. Cender and Katie S. Birkey.

Married:
By Samuel Gerber of Tremont, a Minister of the Gospel, at home of P. Zehr

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer
• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald
Oyer. - Christian Oyer, son of Christian and Anna (Smith) Oyer, was born in Washington, Ill., May 23, 1852; died suddenly of cancer and heart trouble at the home of his daughter, Mrs. William Unzicker, Fisher, Ill., May 20, 1929; aged 76 y. 11 m. 28 d. When a young man he accepted Christ as his Savior and united with the Mennonite Church, remaining a faithful member until death. On Aug. 26, 1876, he was united in marriage to Katherine Zehr. To this union were born 6 sons and 6 daughters. His wife and two daughters preceded him in death. He is survived by the following children: Jacob, Mackinaw, Ill.; Joseph, Manuel, Samuel and John, Foosland, Ill.; Mrs. J. E. Birkey, Manson, Iowa; Mrs. Levi Birkey, Clarksville, Mich.; Mrs. William Unzicker, Elsie Oyer, Fisher, Ill. He is also survived by 53 grandchildren and 2 brothers (Peter, Eureka, Ill.; John, St. John, Mich.). One half-brother and sister preceded him in death. He with his family made his home near Roanoke, Ill., until 1902, when they moved to a farm five miles north of Fisher, Ill. Here they lived until the death of his wife eight years ago. Although in failing health for three years, his death came as a shock to his family and friends. He bore his suffering with great patience and faith in his Lord, often expressing a desire to be taken where all sufferings are ended. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Funeral services were held at the East Bend Mennonite church by Bro. J. A. Heiser. Text, I Pet. 1:3, 4. Interment in East Bend cemetery.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Christian married Katherine Zehr on 27 Aug 1876 in Woodford Co., IL. Katherine (daughter of Bishop Jacob Zehr and Elizabeth Ehresman) was born on 2 Apr 1858 in Slabtown, Woodford Co., IL; died on 14 Apr 1921 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Oyer. - Kathrine (Zehr) Oyer was born in Woodford Co., Ill., Apr. 2, 1858; died at her home near Fisher, Ill., Apr. 14, 1921; aged 63 y. 12 d. Sister Oyer suffered a number of years from a complication of diseases. At the age of 16 she confessed her Christ, united with the Amish Mennonite Church, and remained a faithful member to the end. On Aug. 27, 1876, she was united in marriage to Christian Oyer. To this union 12 children were born. She leaves 43 grandchildren, 2 brothers, 2 sisters, and many other relatives and friends. Funeral services conducted in [German] by Bro. Daniel Grieser (Text, II Cor. 5:1), in English by Bro. J. A. Heiser (Text, I Thes. 4:13).


“Jacob and Elizabeth had a daughter, Katherine Zehr Oyer (1858-1921) who "lived a full and active life.” She served as a practical nurse, delivering babies and caring for the sick. Often when her children would arise in the morning, mother would be gone having been called to the home of some sick neighbor. She was also the one who helped 'lay out the dead.' This was before undertakers as we know them today. She practiced in both the Mackinaw Valley and East Bend communities.

“Katherine was good at figures and helped with keeping the family records. she also did a great deal of quilting and was a good seamstress. She was a quiet and patient person and loved by all her family. Her last five years she was ill much of the time which she bore patiently.”

Died:
At her home

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald March 30, 1939 - Vol. XXXI, No.52 - pages 1107, 1108

Naffziger.-John William, son of Peter J. and Magdalena Naffziger, was born Oct. 20, 1854, near Metamora, Ill.; died at his home in Foosland, Ill., Jan. 20, 1939, from complications of old age; aged 84 y. 3 m. In February, 1856, he moved with his parents to Panola, Ill., and in 1870 removed with his parents to Hopedale, Ill. In May, 1876, he made his vow with God and united with the Mennonite Church at Hopedale, Ill. In 1902 they moved to Fisher, where he transferred his membership to the East Bend Mennonite Church where he remained faithful to the end. On March 7, 1882, he was united it marriage to Mary Springer. To this union 9 children were born (Lena L., at home; Alphia P. of Rockwell City, Iowa; Reuben J. of Pocahontas, Iowa; Mrs. Elmira Oyer, Mrs. Fannie Birkey, Jesse D., and Mrs. Leah Springer all of Foosland, Ill.). Levi W. passed away at 6 weeks of age and 1 son died in infancy. He was also preceded in death by 3 brothers. He leaves his sorrowing wife, 3 sons, 4 daughters, 20 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren; also 2 brothers (Sam and Henry of Michigan) and 2 sisters (Mrs. Kate Kauffman and Mrs. Amos Litwiller of Hopedale), and a host of other relatives and friends. He was a kind and loving husband and father, much concerned about the welfare of the Church. Funeral services were held Jan. 23 in the home by Bro. Harold Zehr and at the East Bend Mennonite Church by Bros. Samuel Zehr and J. A. Heiser. Texts, Psa. 116:15; II Tim. 4:7. Interment in the East Bend Cemetery.

"Father, dear, your wish is granted,
Sorrow, pain and grief are o'er;
By the grace of God we'll meet you,
Over on the peaceful shore."

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

John married Mary Nellie Springer on 7 Mar 1882 in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL. Mary (daughter of Johann Springer and Elizabeth Nafziger) was born on 25 May 1862 in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 13 Oct 1950 in Foosland, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obit:
Naffziger. --- Mary N., daughter of John and Elizabeth Springer, was born May 25, 1862, near Hopedale, Tazewell Co., Ill.; passed away Oct. 13, 1950, at the home of her daughter (Mrs. John S. Birky) near Foosland, Ill.; aged 88 y. 4 m. 18 d. At the age of fourteen she received Christ as her Saviour and united with the Mennonite Church at Hopedale, Ill., transferring when they moved in 1902 to a farm near Fisher. She remained a faithful member until death. On March 7, 1882, she was united in marriage to John W. Naffziger. To this union were born 9 children . Her husband, one daughter (Lena), 2 sons, 2 brothers, 5 sisters, and on granddaughter, preceded her in death. Surviving are 3 sons and 3 daughters (Alphia, Rockwell City, Iowa; Mrs. Elmira Oyer, Foosland, Ill.; Reuben, Pocahontas, Iowa; Mrs. Fannie Birky, Foosland, Ill.; Jesse, Foosland; Mrs. Leah Spring, Saybrook, Ill.), 19 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one brother (David V. Springer), and a large number of other relatives and friends. She was a kind and loving mother, much concerned about the spiritual welfare of her family and the church. Funeral services were conducted at the East Bend Mennonite Church Oct. 15, with Harold Zehr in charge, assisted by J. A. Heiser.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Other Events and Attributes:

• Education: Little formal education, but a degree in life’s experiences
• Occupation: Farmer
• Reference Number: 14
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• USR1: Cancer (See Obit)
• Residence: 1887, Decatur Co., KS
• Residence: 1895, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
• PURC: 9 Feb 1910, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
• PURC: 26 Feb 1910, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
• PURC: 27 Dec 1920, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

Notes:

Obit: Oct. 4, 1928 Gospel Herald
Birkey. - Valentine Birkey, son of Joseph and Mary Birkey, was born near Morton, Ill., Feb. 2, 1858; died Sept. 18, 1928; aged 70 y. 7 m. 16 d. He was united in marriage to Phoebe Good about 47 years ago. Surviving him are his wife, 4 sons, 5 daughters, 2 sisters, 1 brother, 31 grandchildren, and a large number of old relatives and friends. His parents, 2 sisters, 2 brothers, and 2 grandchildren preceded him to the spirit world. For several years his health seemed to be failing and later cancer developed, which caused his death. He was confined to his bed from June 15 until death. At times, his suffering and pain was very great, but he was very patient through it all. His condition did not seem to alarm him, and he was fully given up to Him who does all things well. He united with the Mennonite Church in his youth and proved faithful until the end. Funeral services were conducted at the home by Bro. S. S. Zehr and at the church by the Bros. Jake Zehr and Ezra Yordy. Text, 1 Cor. 13:12. Interment was made in the cemetery nearby.


Read at the Centennial Celebration of the East Bend Mennonite Church in 1989, in Fisher, IL
“My name is Valentine Birkey. My father was Joseph of the “Big Black” Birkeys, and my mother was Mary of the “Little Red” Birkeys. They both came from Germany to Tazewell County where they met and married. I was born in 1858 near Morton, Illinois, but my parents later moved to near Hopedale. It was at Hopedale that Phoebe Good and I were married in 1882. Here our two daughters Mollie and Bertha were born.

“About this time many families were moving west. In northwest Kansas land could still be homesteaded. We kept hearing there had been lots of rain the last few years and things were looking good. Some of my relatives were moving there, so my parents decided they would move too. It sounded like a good chance to own land, and Mother insisted that all her married children move too.

“So in April 1887, Phoebe and I packed for the long train ride. After arriving we stayed with my parents until September when Joe was born. We had taken out a timber claim which meant we had to plant 500 trees, live on the land and then the 160 acres would become ours. So that summer the men cut sod and built our sod house on the claim. the walls were two feet thick, which kept it really warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It was the roof that gave US trouble--the sod and tree branches always seemed to let the rain through. And I really didn’t like having the rattlesnakes living in the walls. My family had all taken claims very close by. The stagecoach form Oberlin to Colby, Kansas crossed over part of our farm.

“We had a large church congregation in Decatur County. Our services were held in the Swedish Covenant sod church on Sunday afternoons until we finished building our own sod church. The cemetery was 1/2 mile north of the church and that’s where we buried by brother Dan.

“After we got settled in Kansas it forgot to rain. Year after year we had crop failures. the corn would look beautiful in the spring and then the hot, dry winds came and in just a few days the field of corn would be ruined. One year the wheat headed out, but since it was only six inches tall it was too short to cut with the binder. Our only choice was to turn the pigs into the field to do the harvesting. We seemed to get poorer every year. Joe, Alvin and Kate were born in our sod house. We had to divide our potatoes and it was hard to have to feed the children “thick and thin” for supper. What was that? It was thick sour milk to which Phoebe added some fresh sweet milk. We gathered buffalo chips to burn in our stove. Those were hard years on the prairie.

“Families started moving away. Some of my cousins moved by covered wagon to Beemer, Nebraska to help start the church there. some moved back to Hopedale. Two of my sisters moved to Shickley, Nebraska, and eventually my brother Joe moved to Oregon, my brother Jake to Montana. One summer my cousin Christian J. Birkey came to visit. He was married to Phoebe’s sister, so he was my brother-in-law as well. Then he saw how bad things were, he urged US to sell out and come back to Illinois. I told him if I sold everything I owned it wouldn’t be enough to pay our way back.

“On our way to church every Sunday we would stop at the home of the Lund family to collect our mail. One Sunday morning there was a letter from Chris. Phoebe couldn’t wait till after church to read it. Chris said he had bought a farm in Champaign County were a new church had been started. He offered to send US money for the train fare. Chris was like that--he helped many people. It was very difficult for Phoebe and I to get much out of the church service that day.

“Well, we soon made plans to move to Illinois and it was a glad day when we got there. It was almost dark, and as we got near the house I said, “Oh, look at all the sheep out there in the pasture.” Well, when I looked out the next morning, I got a surprise! I saw it was tree stumps instead, and that meant I had a lot of work to do. But we had 20 good years there. East Bend church was building its first building, so I got to help with that. There was no bridge across the Sangamon River north of the church so we had to ford the river. About ten years later, John Naffziger and Chris Good put together a petition and we got a new bridge built across the river.

“After returning to Illinois, Silas, Joel, Ada and Edna joined our family. I was finally able to buy the farm 1/2 mile north of the church. I built a house and barn which are both still standing in 1989.

“I didn’t have much education, but I had a degree in life’s experiences. Looking back on the good and bad times I think we need the bitter lessons to better appreciate the good ones.”

Residence:
Went to Kansas for a homestead claim.

Residence:
After difficult years in Kansas moved back to Illinois.

PURC:
From C.C. and Lena Gut for $4,785. W1/2 of NE1/4, and East 25 acres of NW 1/4 of SW1/4, and W1/2 of W1/2 of NW1/4 of SW1/4 of Section 17 Twp 22N R8E

PURC:
From John Cender. Five acres-W 1/2 of E 1/2 of W 1/ of NW 1/4 of SW 1/4 of Section 17, Township 22N, Range 8E of 3rdPM

PURC:
From Cora A. and H. W. Baker for $8,100. SW1/4 of SW1/4 of Section 17 Twp22 N, R8E--”except a portion leased to the Ommish Mennonite Church Society.”

Died:
At his farm home.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery. Funeral by J. A. Heiser.

Valentine married Phoebe (Bena) Good on 15 Jan 1882 in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL. Phoebe (daughter of Josef (Joseph ) Guth (Good) and Katharina Stalter) was born on 5 Sep 1863 in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 16 Dec 1962 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried on 18 Dec 1962 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer’s wife and mother of ten (nine living).
• Reference Number: 15
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• USR1: Old Age
• Residence: 15 Jan 1882, Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald
Birkey, Phoebe, daughter of Joseph and Kathryn Good, was born at Hopedale, Ill., Sept. 5, 1863; died at Eureka, Ill., Dec. 16, 1962; aged 99 y. 3 m. 11 d. On Jan.15, 1882, she was married to Valentine Birkey, who died in Sept., 1928. Surviving are all their 9 children (Mrs. Mollie Zehr, Mrs. Bertha Heiser, Joe, Alvin, Mrs. Katie Zehr, Silas, Joel, Mrs. Ada Foley, and Mrs. Edna Schertz), 3 sisters (Mrs. Sara Beller, aged 93; Mrs. Kate Horsch, aged 91; and Mrs. Mary Birkey, aged 88), 40 grandchildren, 120 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were also 2 sisters, 2 brothers, 4 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. She was a member of the East Bend Church, where funeral services were held Dec. 19, in charge of Ivan Birkey and J. Alton Horst.

Obit: Fisher Reporter
Funeral services were held at East Bend Mennonite Church with Rev. Ivan Birkey and Rev. J. Alton Horst officiating. Phoebe died at Maple Lawn Home in Eureka where she had been a resident for eleven years.


Obit: Mennonite Weekly Review
10 Jan 1963 p. 8
Mrs. Phoebe Birkey

Mrs. Phoebe (Good) Birkey was born near Hopedale, Ill. on Sept. 5, 1863, the daughter of Joseph and Kathryn Good. On Jan. 15, 1882 she was married to Valentine Birkey. They lived near Hopedale for five years. In 1877 [sic; 1887?] they homesteaded on the prairie in Decatur County, Kan. There they built and lived in a sod house where three of their children were born. They lived in Kansas for eight years.

In 1895, with the help of a sister's husband, they moved to a farm near Fisher, Ill. In 1917 they built the house north of the East Bend Mennonite Church and lived there until Mr. Birkey died in September 1928. She then lived with her children until 1951 when she moved to the Maple Lawn Homes in Eureka, Ill., spending the rest of her days there. Here she made many friends. She moved on to her eternal home on Dec. 16, 1962.

Surviving are her nine children, Mrs. Mollie Zehr, Mrs. Bertha Heiser, Joe Birkey, and Alvin Birkey, all of Fisher, Mrs. Katie Zehr of Ludlow, Ill., Silas Birkey of Flanagan, Ill., Joel Birkey of Ludlow, Mrs. Ada Foley of Norwalk, Calif., and Mrs. Edna Schertz of Saybrook, Ill.; three sisters, Mrs. Sarah Beller, 93, of Maple Lawn Homes, Mrs. Kate Horsch, 91, of Washburn, Ill., and Mrs. Mary Birkey, 88, of Sunset Rest Home, Geneva, Neb.; 40 grandchildren, 120 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren. Her husband, two sisters, two brothers, four grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren preceded her in death.

In her youth she gave her heart to the Lord, remaining a member of the Mennonite church. She lived a long life, and her mind remained clear to the last. Her life was a quiet one marked by great concern for all members of her family. She will be missed by many.

The funeral service was held at the East Bend Mennonite Church near Fisher, Ill. on Dec. 19, 1962, with Rev. Ivan Birkey, a grandson, and Rev. J. Alton Horst officiating. Burial was made in the church cemetery. Six grandsons carried the casket.

Died:
Maple Lawn Home

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Notes:

Valentine and Phoebe were married in the Hopedale Mennonite Church by Christian Nafziger. Joseph Good was a witness.
Valentine was 23, a farmer, and living in Hopedale, IL at the time of marriage. Phoebe was 18.

Other Events and Attributes:

• CLER: Y
• Occupation: Minister, Bishop, Farmer
• Reference Number: 16
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• USR1: Complications Of Bright’s Disease
• Residence: Abt 1856, Tazewell Co., IL
• Ordained: 10 Jun 1883, Goodfield, Woodford Co., IL
• Residence: 1889, East Bend Twp., Champaign Co., IL
• Ordained: 30 Apr 1893, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
• Residence: 1900, East Bend Twp., Champaign Co., IL

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald Mar 30 1922

Zehr. - Bishop Peter Zehr was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., Aug. 24, 1851; died at his home near Fisher, Ill., Mar. 14, 1922; aged 70 y. 6 m. 18 d. He suffered from a complication of diseases. He bore it very patiently. He was married to Barbara Heiser of Morton, Ill., June 8, 1876. To this union were born five children (Mrs. Catharine Cender, Dan P. Zehr, Mrs. Lizzie Cender, Mrs. Amelia Birky, and Joseph A., who preceded his father in his infancy). He leaves 15 grandchildren, three brothers, and three sisters. Five brothers and 1 sister preceded him to eternity. He united with the Mennonite Church in his youth. June 10, 1883, he was ordained to the ministry in Deer Creek, Ill. In 1893 he was ordained bishop in charge of the East Bend congregation near Fisher. He was known for his heart concern for the flock. His last prayers were for her welfare. The funeral was held Mar. 17, 1922, conducted by Bros. Samuel Gerber, C. F. Derstine, and Bros. Ezra B. Yordy. Text, I Thes. 4:14; II Cor. 5:1.
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PETER ZEHR DEAD
Peter Zehr, an aging resident of East Bend township residing northeast of town, died at his home on Tuesday night of last week.

Bishop Peter Zehr, son of Peter and Elizabeth Zehr was born near Deer Creek Ill., August 24th, 1851 and died at his late home March 14th 1922, aged 70 years 6 months and 18 days he suffered a complication of diseases. He was married to Barbra Heiser of Morton, Ill. June 8th, 1876, to this union were born five children as follows: Mrs. Catherine Cender; Dan P. Zehr; Mrs. Lizzie Cender; Mrs. Amelia Birkey; and Joseph A. Zehr who preceded his father to eternity in his infancy 33 yers ago.

He leaves 15 grandchildren one grandchild preceded him in death a number of years ago. He also leaves three brothers and three sisters as follows: Daniel Zehr of Danvers, Ill., Mrs. C. W. Heiser of Goodfield, Ill., Mrs. Joseph Baecher of Foosland, Ill., David D. Zehr of Manson, Iowa; Mrs. C. S. Zehr of Manson, Iowa, and Samuel Zehr of Foosland, Ill; five brothers and one sister preceded him in death in their infancy.

He united with the Mennonite Church in his youth, later in June 10th, 1883 he was ordained to the ministry in Deer Creek Ill. Ten years later he was ordained bishop in charge of the East Bend congregation near Fisher, Ill. He was known for his heart concern for the Church. His last prayers were for her welfare and for her souls.

The funeral services were held at the Mennonite Church March 17 conducted by Bishop Samuel Gerber Tremont Ill. Bishop Clayton Derstine of Eureka Ill. and by Pre Ezra Yordy of Eureka at the home. Texts.I Thess. 4:4, II Cor. 5:1.

Father thou art sweetly resting; Gone from all thy toil and pain.
For from earth and all its wrestling, Thou didst now thy crown obtain.
Thou didst love the good old bible, Turned its pages o’er and o’er.
Till the Savior bade thee leave it, And its promised realms explore.
—By his Children
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Harold S. Bender said: “The proper name of the followers of Jakob Ammann is ‘Amish Mennonite’ although frequently they are referred to simply as Amish.” The Amish Mennonites came to Illinois a few years earlier than the Mennonites and came in larger numbers. Amish Mennonites from Dillon Creek and Goodfield and Hopedale [IL] began moving to the East Bend area of Champaign Co. [IL] in about 1880. (Source 1098)
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Peter was the first minister of the East Bend Mennonite Church, Fisher, IL. He had served the Goodfield Mennonite Church (formed from the Mackinaw Meeting) from 1883-1889. In 1914, Bishop Peter Zehr started the practice of an all day meeting on the Fourth of July, including morning session, noon basket lunch, afternoon and evening sessions. Just the year before, in 1913, Peter writes in his church record book that “an evening service was held at East Bend Church, Champaign Co., IL, on Jun 19 by the four brothers-Daniel Zehr, Peter Zehr, David Zehr, Samuel Zehr. A sermon was held again by the four brothers at Goodfield, IL, Apr 30, 1918.”
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Willard Smith in Mennonites of Illinois tells of the tense time following World War I. “At the East Bend church at Fisher, vandals splashed yellow paint only on the front door. They also put up a flagpole and flag. Some members wanted to remove it, but Bishop Peter Zehr instructed that it remain flying. It was left there until it became tattered.” (p.356)

The final marriage (No. 59 in Peter’s church record book) performed by Peter seems to be on October 2, 1919, joining Samuel Heiser and Mrs. Alma Kohli. The last death recorded in his book is John Zehr, 30 June 1919.}

Read at East Bend Mennonite Church Centennial, 1989

“I moved to East Bend Township in 1889 for the purpose of starting a new church...I was born in Woodford County on August 24, 1851 and my parents were Peter and Elizabeth Oyer Zehr. When I was five years old, Pa bought a farm in Tazewell County by the Mackinaw River, so we moved there. Our house stood on the high hill overlooking the Mackinaw Valley. I had a happy childhood growing up with my three brothers Daniel, David and Samuel. I also had three sisters Elizabeth, Mary and Phoebe. We had Christian parents who must have been our inspiration , because all four of US boys grew up to be preachers. Our parents took US to church whenever possible and at first we had our church services in different homes. The preachers were my Uncle Jake Zehr, Christian Ropp and Christian Reesor.

I felt the call of God and wondered what he had in store for me. When the church at Goodfield called me to be a minister in 1883, I thought maybe that was the answer. The next year we built our new church building.

I had married Barbara Heiser in 1876 and by now Katie, Dan, and Lizzie were born. Things were going well but still it seemed God was calling me to something different. When it was brought to my attention that there were several families in Champaign County without a minister, it seemed that this was the answer to the call I had been feeling. When I said something to Barb, she was willing to go. Her brother Jake was already living there, and her brother Joe and family decided to move with us.

When I told the church, people objected to us moving. One day my son Dan came home and told me he had heard some people talking. they were saying, “Peter will come back with his pack on his back.” But Barb and I felt we must follow God’s call no matter what the home folks were saying.

In November of 1888, another son, Joseph, was added to our family. While we were preparing to move to Champaign County in the spring of 1889, baby Joseph took sick with the red measles. When we thought he was over the measles, we got our belongings together and boarded the train for Gibson City. The train ride was long, but it was so good to see Barb’s brother Jacob Heiser at the train depot to meet us. The spring air was so cold, and it was a rainy day when we arrived.

It seemed such a long ride in the cold rain until we got to our new home. But riding in a spring wagon was so much better than walking the eight miles like Jacob and Elizabeth had to do. We were so glad to get there, but that night Joseph became ill again with a setback from the measles. In spite of the best we could do, the baby died on March 23rd. We buried him in Blackford Cemetery. We couldn’t help but wonder why this happened to us.

To add to our wondering, four days after little Joseph died, Barb’s brother Joseph Heiser injured himself while moving some hay and died suddenly. Two deaths in four days! I knew what some home folks would be saying now!

But in spite of these setbacks, I felt God’s call to go ahead and organize a church. After we had our first church service, I felt a peace within me that I had not experienced before. I felt sure this was where God wanted me to be.

In 1891 our last child, Amelia, was born.

With more people moving to the area, Dixon School soon became too small, so in 1892 we rented the Houstonville Methodist Church for our meeting place. My brother David Zehr helped organize our first Sunday school and became the first Sunday school superintendent. With more and more people coming, we felt it was time to have our own church building. So in the summer of 1895 we built our first church building. Now we had a permanent place for our church home.

My concern was always for the welfare of the church and even unto my dying day I was praying for the church. I had a favorite motto that influenced my life and I passed it on to others. It went like this, “I shall pass through this world but once, if therefore there be any kindness I can show or any good thing I can do, let me do it now, let me not deter it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”







It was then used for at least some of the subsequent children, but ventually ended up with Bishop Peter and his wife Barbara. Most likely, all of their children used it, then it was given to Amelia (who married Alvin Birkey). It stayed with that family for many years until thier son, Delmar Gene, was born, and was the last person to sleep in the vintage bed. In July of 2023, the bed was gifted to Del and Donna’s family to keep, protect, and hand down at the appropriate time.}

Ordained:
Served the Mennonite Church at Goodfield, IL from 1883-1889

Ordained:
To bishop status-East Bend Mennonite

Residence:
Head of house, Peter, wife Barbara, children Katie, Daniel, Lizzie, Amelia.

Died:
Death Certificate on Microfilm at Urbana Free Library, DC #11574

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery. Funeral service by Derstine and Sam Gerber.

Peter married Barbara Heiser on 8 Jun 1876 in Tazewell Co., IL. Barbara (daughter of Jacob Heiser and Katharina Wagler) was born on 1 Nov 1857 in Tazewell Co., IL; died on 16 Nov 1934 in Foosland, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Minister's Wife And Mother
• Reference Number: 17
• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Zehr. - Barbara, daughter of Jacob and Katherine Heiser, and wife of Bishop Peter Zehr, was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., Nov. 1, 1857; died Nov. 16, 1934, at the home of her daughter (Mrs. Alvin R. Birkey of Foosland, Ill.); aged 77 y. 15 d. She united with the Mennonite Church in her youth and remained a faithful member until death. She was united in marriage with Peter Zehr, June 8, 1876. To this union were born 5 children, 3 of whom are now living -- Mrs. Katie Cender, Daniel P. Zehr, and Mrs. Amelia Birkey, all of Foosland, Ill. Two children preceded her in death -- Mrs. Elizabeth Cender, who died April 4, 1928, and Joseph who died in infancy. Her husband also preceded her in death, having died March 14, 1922. She leaves 19 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Two grandchildren have gone on before her. She also leaves 1 sister (Mrs. Fanny King of Fisher, Ill.) and 5 brothers (Christian of Goodfield, Ill.; Peter of Foosland, Ill.; Isaac of Fisher, Ill.; Samuel and Daniel of Morton, Ill.). Four sisters and two brothers preceded her in death. She leaves a large host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were held at the East Bend Mennonite Church with Bro. Harold Zehr of Fisher, Ill., and Bro. Ezra Yordy of Eureka, Ill., in charge. Text, Job 5:26. Interment in East Bend Cemetery.

"The great Jehovah, full of love,
An angel bright did send,
And took our darling Mother home,
To joys that never end."

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery