Christian Zehr

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer And Stock-Raiser
• Residence: 1838, Butler Co., OH
• Immigration: 14 Jul 1838, New York, NY
• Residence: 1843, Woodford Co., IL
• Census: 1850, Woodford Co., IL
• Residence: 1852, Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
• Census: 1860, Mackinaw, Tazewell Co., IL
• Census: 1870, Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
• Census: 1870, Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
• Census: 1880, Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL

Notes:

Obit: Herald of Truth, October 1893:
"On the 19th of Sept. 1893, in Tazewell Co., Ill., of general debility, Bro. Christian Zehr, aged 81 y., 7 m. He leaves his wife and 6 children. Funeral services by Joseph King and Joseph Stuckey in German and English from Psa. 90."
——————————
Christian traveled in 1838 to America, stopping in Butler County, Ohio, where his wife joined him in 1840. He farmed in Ohio until 1843, the next year he went to Illinois. Here he settled along the Mackinaw River and built a two room log cabin. He and [Elizabeth] had only one child, Lena. Shortly after this birth Christian's wife died. He served as a deacon of the Roanoke Mennonite Church from 1856 to 1893.

In 1844, Christian married his second wife. Their wedding was performed by bishop Michael Mosiman. The Zehrs probably belonged to the Mackinaw Meeting Amish congregation. In about 1856, Christian built a fine brick house. It was nestled in a hillside overlooking the Mackinaw River Valley. The house took two years to build. Christian made all the bricks for the dwelling in a brickyard located on his farm. Tradition says that his children mixed the clay by stamping barefoot in the mix. Christian also built his own wagon using a broad axe and a saw. It is said that there was "not a pound of iron in the wagon." ...The brick house has since been torn down.

“Christian had the grit and determination of his German forebarers and came to own 900 acres in Tazewell County--which he then gave to his children. He was a registered Democrat and served as a school director. His son, Christian born 3-12-1857, engaged in general farming and stock raising in Tazewell County. He married Magdalena Roeschley, daughter of John and Elizabeth Saltzman Roeschley. He also was registered as a Democrat, and listed as a prominent citizen of Tazewell County. “

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Tazewell County: "The family has been known in this section since the spring of 1852, when the father...Christian Zehr...settled on Section 25, Deer Creek Township, where he engaged in the general farming and stock-raising business on a scale exceeding that of his neighbors, and raising expectations in the popular mind which were more than realized...and in time became the owner of 900 acres of land, the greater part being valuable and productive. As his children became of age he apportioned farms to them, thus giving them a start in life to which his own youth had been a stranger."

“Christian Zehr was a very thrifty and frugal man. Of all the Zehr brothers he became the most prosperous financially. In his lifetime he accumulated 900 acres of land, having a farm for each of his children when they married and started out in life for themselves.”

“They lived along the Macinaw River near the Rocky Ford. Christian Zehr became a man of wealth and owned much land between Deer Creek and Goodfield.”


The recollections of Christian's daughter Elizabeth, written in the 1930s:
"I was born in 1854 in a log cabin which contained only two rooms and no floors. The roof was made of clapboards. This cabin was situated along the Mackinaw River which was only two jumps wide. It is now about 80 feet wide. There were fourteen log cabins in the community where I was born. I was the last one born in the long [sic] house, for soon after that my father made his own bricks out of clay and built a brick house.
My father's wagon was made out of logs with broad axe and saw and not one pound of iron in it. I saw him work in the field with that wagon and three yoke of oxen a great number of times. He also built a log barn - 70 ft. by 40 ft. My father made his own plow out of wood. This was a one-horse plow and it took one row for one round.
We always went to church in the wagon. The church was twenty five miles away. In those days church services were held in houses, while now it is held in buildings use for that purpose only. In years after, we rode in spring wagons. Now automobiles are used almost entirely, and if it rains we can't get there.
My father put the wheat and grain on the barn floor and threshed it out with clubs. Now all farmers have threshing machines. He put the corn on the barn floor and stamped it out with horses, fanned it, put it in sacks, and took it to market. Now corn shellers are used. He cut his grain with a cradle and one of us had to follow with the garden rake and make bundles, another to bind it. They now have a machine which does both cutting and threshing.
It always seemed that my father was blessed, for he was never too tired or busy for family worship. God blessed him with six children. My father was born in 1812 and was always a hard working man. He died when he was 82 years of age....
I think the old days were a blessing and a comfort. The times now are so different that they are hard to get used to. I think the automobiles and high ways of living spoil things. Then the neighbors helped each other without pay; now it is pay for every quarter of an hour. During the years 1861, '62, and '63, the Civil War was fought. Two of my uncles were drafted but my father bought substitutes for them. The Civil War and also the World War are sad memories.
I was married in 1873 to Mr. Andrew Ulrich. We lived with my folks for two years and then moved in 1875 to Harlen farm, a mile and a half east of Deer Creek. From the Harlen place, we moved to Deer Creek. We raised four children. I have fourteen grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. My husband died February 13, 1919. Since then I have lived alone. Up to this time I have made 168 quilts.
God blessed me and still does, for he keeps me well. My wish is that God may bless the whole relationship.”

Birth:
On the Bergerhof. Source 356 puts Christian's birth at 12 Nov 1812. Gravestone says 8 Nov 1812. Ancestry.com shows a birthdate of 12 Nov 1812 and a death date of 18 Dec 1892

Residence:
Farmed in OH, wife joined him here in 1840

Immigration:
From Le Havre. On ship Burgundy. The passenger list gives 'Christian Zeiyer,’ 24.

Residence:
Mackinaw River area

Census:
farmer Christian Sears, 38, Germany; Mary, 28, France; Matlan [Magdalena/Madeleine], 8, Illinois; Joseph, 5, Illinois; Josephine, 2, Illinois; and Mattan [Magdalena/Madeleine] Stine, 14, Germany.

Residence:
Settled on Section 25

Census:
them living next door to brother Peter Zehr as farmer Christian Zears, 48, Germany; Mary, 37, Germany; and six children born in Illinois.

Census:
Listed as farmer age 47, born in Bavaria; with wife Mary age 47 born in France; children Elizabeth age 16, Christian age 14, Liddy age 8 and Samuel age 4, all born in IL

Census:
farmer Christian Zehr, 57, Bavaria; Mary, 47, France; and four children born in Illinois (son Joseph Zehr, 24, lived next door; brother Peter Zehr, 52, is found on the same page).

Census:
as farmer Christian Zehr, 68, Bavaria; Mary, 58, France; with two children 17 and 13 still living at home, both born in Illinois

Died:
On his farm in Deer Creek Twp.
Source 356 puts death at 18 Dec 1892. Source 26 gives date as 12 Sep 1893.

Buried:
Mt. Zion Cemetery, north of Deer Creek (see photo)

Christian married Elizabeth Landes on 5 Sep 1841 in Woodford Co., IL. Elizabeth (daughter of Rudolph Landes and Nancy Plum) was born in 1814 in OH; died in 1843 in IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Christian married Marie (Mary) Oyer on 12 Aug 1844 in Tazewell Co., IL. Marie (daughter of Joseph, Sr. Oyer and Catherine Schrag) was born on 16 Apr 1823 in Niderhoff, Moselle, FR; died on 22 Nov 1893 in Deer Creek, Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; was buried in Deer Creek, Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald, February 1914:

Magdalena Zehr was born in Woodford Co., Ill., March 21, 1843; died Feb. 17, 1914, in Calhoun Co., Ia; aged 70y, 10m, 27d. She was united in marriage to Andrew Zehr, July 28, 1863. To this union were born 11 children. Two children and one grandchild preceded her to the spirit world.

She leaves to mourn her departure her husband, 9 children, 36 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

She united with the A.M. Church in her youth, and remained faithful until her death. She endured many trials and much suffering through her life. The last eight months of her life she was confined to her bed the greater part of the time. Her last illness was dropsy. She had a great longing to go home and be at rest.

Funeral services at the home Feb. 19, and at the Cedar Creek Church at Manson. Opening by Bro. Jos. Egli. Text, by Bro. A.H. Leaman of Chicago, Gen. 5:24. Interment in the Rose Hill
Cemetery.



“ Magdalena/Madeleine and Andrew were given a farm by Christian. They are found on the 1870 census of Waldo, Livingston County as farmer Andrew Zehr, 32, France; Magdalene, 29, Illinois; and four children born in Illinois. The 1880 census of Waldo also lists her birthplace as Illinois. The 1900 census of Lincoln, Iowa lists her place and date of birth as Illinois in March 1843, while Andrew was born in France in June 1839. They had 10 children. They are buried in Rose Hill Cemetery at Manson. “

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Magdalena married Andrew Zehr on 28 Jul 1863 in Woodford Co., IL. Andrew (son of Joseph Zehr and Catherine Kohler) was born on 9 Jun 1839 in Struth, Bas-Rhin, FR; died on 10 Jun 1915 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Census: 1870, Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL

Notes:

LIved in Aurora, NB by 1900. The couple had 12 children.

Census:
Listed as farmer age 24, born in IL; with wife Elizabeth age 22; children Christian age 2 and Mary age 8 months

Joseph married Elizabeth Yoder on 8 Sep 1867. Elizabeth (daughter of Joel Yoder and Lydia Yoder) was born on 11 Dec 1847 in Pleasant, Clermont Co., OH; died on 12 May 1916 in Aurora, Hamilton Co., NE; was buried in Aurora, Hamilton Co., NE. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Stumbaugh Cemetery

Josephine married Christian R. King on 7 Nov 1867 in Woodford Co., IL. Christian (son of Michael King and Elizabeth Barnhardt) was born on 13 Oct 1840 in Butler Co., OH; died on 23 Nov 1924 in Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; was buried in Goodfield, Woodford Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Homemaker, quilt maker (at least 168)
• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

The recollections of Christian's daughter Elizabeth, written in the 1930s:
"I was born in 1854 in a log cabin which contained only two rooms and no floors. The roof was made of clapboards. This cabin was situated along the Mackinaw River which was only two jumps wide. It is now about 80 feet wide. There were fourteen log cabins in the community where I was born. I was the last one born in the long [sic] house, for soon after that my father made his own bricks out of clay and built a brick house.

My father's wagon was made out of logs with broad axe and saw and not one pound of iron in it. I saw him work in the field with that wagon and three yoke of oxen a great number of times. He also built a log barn - 70 ft. by 40 ft. My father made his own plow out of wood. This was a one-horse plow and it took one row for one round.

We always went to church in the wagon. The church was twenty five miles away. In those days church services were held in houses, while now it is held in buildings used for that purpose only. In years after, we rode in spring wagons. Now automobiles are used almost entirely, and if it rains we can't get there.

My father put the wheat and grain on the barn floor and threshed it out with clubs. Now all farmers have threshing machines. He put the corn on the barn floor and stamped it out with horses, fanned it, put it in sacks, and took it to market. Now corn shellers are used. He cut his grain with a cradle and one of us had to follow with the garden rake and make bundles, another to bind it. They now have a machine which does both cutting and threshing.
It always seemed that my father was blessed, for he was never too tired or busy for family worship. God blessed him with six children. My father was born in 1812 and was always a hard working man. He died when he was 82 years of age.

I think the old days were a blessing and a comfort. The times now are so different that they are hard to get used to. I think the automobiles and high ways of living spoil things. Then the neighbors helped each other without pay; now it is pay for every quarter of an hour. During the years 1861, '62, and '63, the Civil War was fought. Two of my uncles were drafted but my father bought substitutes for them. The Civil War and also the World War are sad memories.

I was married in 1873 to Mr. Andrew Ulrich. We lived with my folks for two years and then moved in 1875 to Harlen farm, a mile and a half east of Deer Creek. From the Harlen place, we moved to Deer Creek. We raised four children. I have fourteen grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. My husband died February 13, 1919. Since then I have lived alone. Up to this time I have made 168 quilts.

God blessed me and still does, for he keeps me well. My wish is that God may bless the whole relationship."

Birth:
Mackinaw River area

Buried:
Stambaugh Cemetery

Elizabeth married Andrew Ulrich on 6 Mar 1873 in McLean Co., IL. Andrew (son of Peter J. Ulrich, Iii and Anna Oyer) was born on 5 Jun 1848 in Peoria, Peoria Co., IL; died on 18 Feb 1919; was buried in Goodfield, Woodford Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer, Stock-Raiser
• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Christian married Magdalena (Malinda) Roeschley on 5 Feb 1878 in Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL. Magdalena (daughter of Johannes (Jean) Roeschley and Elizabeth Saltzman) was born on 29 Mar 1858 in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 17 Apr 1899 in Deer Creek, Tazewell Co., IL; was buried on 19 Apr 1899 in Goodfield, Woodford Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Christian married Mary Almeda Imhoff Miller on 29 Apr 1900. Mary (daughter of Joseph Imhoff and Emma Jane Weber) was born on 17 Oct 1874 in Washburn, Cazenovia Twp., Woodford Co., IL; died on 10 Oct 1940 in Peoria, Peoria Co., IL; was buried in Peoria, Peoria Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• Residence: 22 Jul 1880, Deer Creek, Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL

Notes:

Residence:
According to marriage record

Buried:
Mt. Zion Cemetery

Lydia married Jacob D. Roeschley on 22 Jul 1880 in Tazewell Co., IL. Jacob (son of Johannes (Jean) Roeschley and Elizabeth Saltzman) was born in Mar 1857 in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL; died in 1909; was buried in Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Samuel married Elizabeth (Lizzie) Lehman on 16 Jun 1887 in McLean Co., IL. Elizabeth (daughter of Peter C. Lehman and Magdalena R. Stalter) was born on 26 Apr 1868 in Nebraska Twp., Livingston Co., IL; died on 19 Jan 1925 in Rooks Creek Twp., Livingston Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• Residence: until 1898, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
• Residence: 1898, Manson, Calhoun Co., IA

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald

Zehr - Christian S. Zehr was born in Woodford Co., Ill., May 18, 1864; died at his home in Manson on May 17, 1938; aged one day less than 74 years old. On March 30, 1886, he was united in marriage to Phoebe Zehr. The first twelve years of their marriage life were spent in Illinois. In 1898 they moved with their family to Manson, Ia., where they have since resided. He was apparently feeling fine the day before his death. One of his great pleasures was to go out on the farm to his sons and daughters, which he did that day. In the forenoon he planted corn, ate a hearty dinner, went up town in the afternoon, got his mail and groceries. Later, while working in his garden about 3:30 o'clock, he was taken ill with a heart attack, which steadily grew worse until one o'clock Tuesday morning when he peacefully fell asleep. He leaves his wife, 10 children (Mrs. Bertha Birkey, Arthur, Emanuel, Ben, Mrs. Ada Sutter, John, Mrs. Lena Sutter, Clarence, Elmer, and Cora at home, all of whom live around Manson), 22 grandchildren, 1 brother (Simon), 2 sisters (Mrs. Mary Eicher and Mrs. Lena Ulrich). His father, mother, 2 brothers and 4 sisters preceded him in death. He united with the Mennonite Church at an early age and remained faithful to the end. He expressed his willingness to go, if the Lord should call him home. He was a kind and loving father, who had an intense interest in the welfare of his family. He possessed an energetic spirit, which expressed itself in his ever seeking to be engaged in some useful work. His passing leaves a large vacancy and he will be greatly missed by his host of relatives and friends. Funeral services were conducted by Bro. Henry King of Harper, Kans., and Bro. N. Stoltzfus of Manson. Interment in Rose Hill Cemetery.
"A great Jehovah full of love, an angel bright did send,
And took our loving father home to joys that never end."

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Christian married Phoebe Zehr on 30 Mar 1886 in Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL. Phoebe (daughter of Peter Zehr, Sr. and Elizabeth Oyer) was born on 3 Dec 1866 in Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 23 Sep 1949 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Elizabeth married David D. Zehr on 28 Dec 1886. David (son of Peter Zehr, Sr. and Elizabeth Oyer) was born on 21 Apr 1864 in Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 7 Feb 1924 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

John married Mary Orendorff on 13 Dec 1894 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. Mary (daughter of Daniel Orendorff and Mary Yordy) was born on 1 Feb 1877 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 7 Nov 1908 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

John married Tillie Swartzendruber on 8 Mar 1910. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• USR1: Spanish Influenza

Notes:

Obit:
Zehr.--Joseph A. Zehr was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., Dec. 10, 1867; died at his home near Flanagan, Ill., Oct. 12, 1918; aged 50 y. 7 m. 2 d. He united with the A. M. Church in his youth and remained a faithful member. He was married to Bertha Zehr Dec. 30, 1888. To this union were born 5 sons and 2 daughters (Paul, who preceded him 8 yrs., Milo, Roy, Walter, Lloyd, Ella and Lola). He had been suffering much from asthma bearing it patiently but often expressing the wish of being called home if it were not for his family. On Sunday he was at S. S. and church teaching his class of boys as usual. On Monday evening he was taken down with Spanish influenza, suffering greatly at times growing weaker until Saturday morning when he died. Besides his wife and children he leaves one grand-daughter, two brothers and five sisters. Funeral services at the house conducted by Bro. Samuel Gerber, Pekin, Ill., assisted by the house ministers. Text, I Cor. 5:1-10. Interment in the Waldo Cemetery.
"Yet again we hope to meet thee,
When the day of life is past;
And in heaven we hope to greet thee
Where no farewell tears are shed."

Children: Paul (1891-1910)
Milo (1893-1966)
Roy (1896-1970)
Walter Andrew (1900-1953)
Ella Mae (1903-1994)
Lloyd (1908-1971)
Lola (1908-1993)

Died:
at his home as a result of Spanish influenza.


Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Joseph married Bertha Steinman (Stahley) on 30 Dec 1888. Bertha (daughter of Daniel Steinman and Katharina (Catharine) Birky) was born on 28 Aug 1872 in Tazewell Co., IL; died on 29 Jun 1953; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

http://www.hansenhome.us/familyhistory/schrock/p1.htm#i24

Nancy Pearl Zehr was Protestant, First Mennonite Church, Upland, CA. She was born on 5 February 1883 at Illinois, USA.1,2,3 She was the daughter of Joseph Zehr and Elizabeth Yoder.1 Nancy Pearl Zehr appeared on the census of 1 June 1900 in the household of Joseph Zehr and Elizabeth Yoder at Aurora, Hamilton, Nebraska, USA.1 Nancy Pearl Zehr married John Edward Schrock, son of Peter Schrock and Magdelena Unzicker, on 4 January 1904 at Aurora, Hamilton, Nebraska, USA.2,4,5 Nancy Pearl Zehr and John Edward Schrock appeared on the census of 15 April 1910 at Hamilton, Nebraska, USA.6 Nancy Pearl Zehr and John Edward Schrock appeared on the census of 1 January 1920 at Hamilton, Nebraska, USA.3 Nancy Pearl Zehr and John Edward Schrock appeared on the census of 1 April 1930 at Ontario, San Bernardino, California, USA.4 Nancy Pearl Zehr was buried in October 1951 at Ontario, San Bernardino, California, USA. She died on 3 October 1951 at Upland, San Bernardino, California, USA, at age 68.
Children of Nancy Pearl Zehr and John Edward Schrock

* Lyle Maynard Schrock+ b. 27 Jul 1905, d. 24 Jun 19872,3
* Maysel Orleno Schrock+ b. 7 Dec 1909, d. Jan 19896,3,4
* Fern Elizabeth Schrock+ b. 5 May 1913, d. Apr 19944,3

Buried:
Bellevue Memorial Park (Mausoleum)

Nancy married John Edward Schrock on 4 Jan 1904 in Aurora, Hamilton Co., NE. John (son of Peter Schrock and Magdalena (Lena) Unzicker) was born on 5 Jun 1878 in Tazewell Co., IL; died on 21 May 1961 in Upland, San Bernardino Co., CA; was buried on 21 May 1961 in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Heiser, Mary A., daughter of Christian and Phoebe (Zehr) King, was born at Deer Creek, Ill., Nov. 9, 1869; died at Fisher, Ill., May 29, 1962; aged 92 y. 6 m. 20 d. On March 22, 1892, she was married to Isaac Heiser, who died June 18, 1953. Surviving are 5 children (Albert, Rantoul, Ill.; Alma and Erwin, Fisher, Ill.; Ferne Ropp, Tremont; and Lovina Gerber, Morton). One daughter preceded her in death. She was a member of the East Bend Church. Funeral services were held at the Gibson City (Ill.) Bible Church, June 2, in charge of Roy Unzicker and J. Alton Horst.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Mary married Isaac Heiser on 22 Mar 1892 in Tazewell Co., IL. Isaac (son of Jacob Heiser and Katharina Wagler) was born on 23 Feb 1869 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 15 Jun 1953 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Glendale Cemetery

Elizabeth married Peter Samuel Heiser on 28 Aug 1900 in Deer Creek, Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL. Peter (son of Christian W. Heiser and Elizabeth Zehr) was born on 1 Jan 1878 in Morton Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 17 Oct 1963 in Staunton, Macoupin Co., IL; was buried in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• CLER: Y

Notes:

Obit:
Joseph King-King, -- Joseph, son of Chris and Phoebe (Zehr) King, was born near Deer Creek, Tazewell Co., Ill., Nov. 22, 1871; passed away at his home in Fisher, Ill., Oct. 17, 1951; aged 79 y. 10 m. 25 d. On Dec. 19, 1893, he was united in marriage to Fannie Heiser. To this union were born 5 children: Clarence, Pontiac, Mich.; Elmer, Goshen, Ind.; Vietta-Mrs. Ervin Litwiller, Hopedale, Ill.; Ralph, Chicago, Ill.; and Ora, Fisher, Ill. Surviving besides his children are 21grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters (Mrs. Isaac Heiser, Fisher, Ill.; Mrs. Peter Heiser, Washington, Ill.), 2 brothers (Jacob, Eureka, Ill.; and John, Deer Creek, Ill.), and a large number of nephews, nieces, and other relatives. His wife died Jan. 12, 1950. One sister, 3 brothers and 3 grandchildren also predeceased him. Early in life he accepted Christ as his Saviour and was a member of the Mennonite Church until death. In 1896 he and his wife and their son moved to Champaign Co., In 1898, he took residence on a farm west of Fisher, where he and his family lived until 1929, when he moved to Fisher. For about fifteen years he was associated with the local produce Firm. Driving a truck through neighboring communities brought him into contact with a wide circle of friends. He was devoted to his family, was especially fond of children, and was always interested in the affairs of his church. Funeral services were conducted at the East Bend Mennonite Church with Harold Zehr officiating and J. A. Heiser assisting.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Joseph married Fannie Heiser on 19 Dec 1893 in Deer Creek, Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL. Fannie (daughter of Jacob Heiser and Katharina Wagler) was born on 6 Apr 1866 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 12 Jan 1950 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Buckeye Cemetery

Phoebe married Daniel C. Heiser on 23 Nov 1899 in Deer Creek, Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL. Daniel (son of Jacob Heiser and Katharina Wagler) was born on 16 Nov 1874 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 11 Apr 1958 in Peoria, Tazewell Co., IL; was buried in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Stambaugh Cemetery

Family/Spouse: Roy Robbins. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: John Roth. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Ira Gilbert. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Birth:
SSDI info

Family/Spouse: Violet Dearth. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Died:
SSDI info

Family/Spouse: Gladys Phillips. Gladys died on 25 Jan 1980. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Went to Seattle.

Notes:

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Albert married Olive (Ollie) Cumrine on 17 Aug 1911 in Livingston Co., IL. Olive was born in 1892 in Livingston Co., IL; died in 1925; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Ruth Anita Ranney. Ruth was born on 25 Jun 1908 in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 27 Dec 1993 in Meadows, McLean Co., IL; was buried in Waldo, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Notes:

Obit:
EL PASO-- Roy Zehr, 53, an airplane dealer in El Paso since 1936 died at 2:20 a.m. Sunday of a heart ailment He had been ill only one day.

He was taken to the Vincent Memorial Home where services will be held at 2 p m Tuesday. The Rev Jack B North will officiate. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery with Masonic Rites. 

Mr Zehr was born Nov 14, 1898 near Flanagan a son of Samuel and Elizabeth Lehman Zehr. He married Florence Harris Dec 30, 1919. He was a Veteran of World War I and engaged in farming until they moved to El Paso.
Survivors are his wife, a son Wayne of El Paso; a daughter, Reta, at home; three brothers, Albert of Meadows, Arthur of Gridley, Lester of Graymont; a sister Miss Elsie Zehr of Meadows and two grandsons.

A sons and three brothers preceded him in death.
Mr Zehr was a member of the Mennonite Church and and the Masonic Lodge.

Buried:
Evergreen Cemetery

Notes:

Obit: Herald of Truth
Birkey, Bertha, daughter of Christian S. and Phebe B. Zehr, was born at Flanagan, Ill., March 9, 1887; died after an external illness at the Mercy Hospital, Fort Dodge, Iowa, Sept. 23, 1962; aged 75 y. 6 m. 14 d. On Feb. 21, 1912, she was married to William Birkey, who survives. Also surviving are 2 sons (Dorance and Vernon), 4 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters (Lena-Mrs. Aaron Sutter, and Cora Zehr), and 4 brothers (John, Ben, Clarence, and Elmer). One sister and 2 brothers preceded her in death. She was a member of the Manson Church, where funeral services were held Sept. 25, in charge of Nick Stoltzfus.

Died:
Mercy Hospital

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Bertha married William (Will) G. Birkey in 1912 in IA. William (son of John G. Birkey and Catherine Schrock) was born on 20 Feb 1889 in IL; died on 15 Apr 1979 in IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Notes:

Obit:
Sutter, Ada Pearl, daughter of Christian and Phoebe Zehr, born Jan. 7, 1894, near Flanagan, Ill.; died Jan. 2, 1959, in the Lutheran Hospital, Fort Dodge, Iowa, after a lingering illness; aged 64 y. 11 m. 26 d. On Dec. 21, 1919, she was married to Cyrenius Sutter of Hopedale, Ill. Surviving are 4 sons (Clarence, Des Moines, Iowa; Robert, Manson, Iowa; Lester, Kokomo, Ind.; and Wayne, Newell, Iowa), 14 grandchildren, 4 brothers (Ben, John, Clarence, and Elmer Zehr), and 3 sisters (Mrs. William Birkey, Mrs. Aaron Sutter, and Cora Zehr), all of Manson. Two brothers also preceded her in death. She was a faithful member of the Manson Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held Jan. 4, in charge of Nicholas Stoltzfus, Edward Birkey, and Roman Hershberger; interment in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Ada married Cyrenius Roy Sutter on 21 Dec 1919 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. Cyrenius (son of Christian N. (Nafziger) Sutter and Fannie Stalter) was born on 25 Jan 1892 in Minier, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 20 Oct 1956 in Estherville, Emmet Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Family/Spouse: Katie Birkey. Katie (daughter of John G. Birkey and Catherine Schrock) was born on 12 Dec 1892; died on 14 Apr 1984; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Family/Spouse: Marie P. Wendt. Marie was born on 25 Sep 1900; died on 10 Dec 1961; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Magdalena married Aaron Sutter on 23 Jan 1923 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. Aaron (son of Christian N. (Nafziger) Sutter and Fannie Stalter) was born on 2 Oct 1895 in Minier, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 11 Oct 1964 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Zehr, Clarence D., son of Christian and Phoebe (Zehr) Zehr, was born near Manson, Iowa, Dec. 28, 1900; died at Trinity West Hospital, Ft. Dodge, Iowa, Apr. 13, 1974; aged 73 y. 3 m. 16 d. On Feb. 28, 1926, he was married to Clara Horsch, who survives. Also surviving are 3 sons (Eldon, Ronald, and Paul), 3 daughters (LaDonna - Mrs. Eugene Stoltzfus, Norma - Mrs. William Schrock, and Phyllis - Mrs. Larry Vogt), and 19 grandchildren. He was a member of Manson Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held on Apr. 16, in charge of Walter Smeltzer; interment in Rose Hill Cemetery.

In 1933 Clarence and Clara took into their home Merle and Gene Yordy, sons of Clara’s sister Martha. Martha died at the age of 26 when the two boys were very young. Their father,

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Clarence married Clara Horsch on 18 Feb 1926. Clara (daughter of Henry Horsch, Sr. and Katherine Good) was born on 27 May 1904 in Gilmore City, Pocahontis Co., IA; died on 5 Jan 1980 in Sandy Springs, Anderson Co., SC; was buried on 9 Jan 1980 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Family/Spouse: Alta Zimmerman. Alta was born on 11 Mar 1905; died on 9 Dec 1984; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Notes:

Married a Roth.

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald, Vol 75, No 16, 20 April 1982
Zehr, Alvin W, son of David and Elizabeth (Zehr) Zehr, was born in Manson, Iowa, May 30, 1896; died at Goshen Hospital, Goshen, Ind, Feb 19, 1982; aged 85 y. 

On Dec 19, 1920, he was married to Ruth Lehman, who survives. Also surviving are 3 daughters, 10 grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. 

He was a member of Manson Mennonite Church and an associate member of Yellow Creek Mennonite Church. Funeral services were held at the Yellow Creek Mennonite Church on Feb 2,2 in charge of Bob Detweiler; interment in Yellow Creek Mennonite Cemetery.

Died:
Goshen Hospital

Alvin married Ruth Lehman on 19 Dec 1920. Ruth was born in 1901 in Alpha, MN; died in 1990 in Goshen, Elkhart Co., IN; was buried in Elkhart Co., IN. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Clyde Garber. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Family/Spouse: Rose A. Bachman. Rose (daughter of Peter E. Bachman and Phoebe P. Smith (Schmidt)) was born on 17 Jun 1892 in Bureau Co., IL; died on 7 Nov 1979 in Streator, LaSalle Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Yordy, Ella Mae Zehr, 90, Gridley, Ill. Born: Nov. 28, 1903, Flanagan, Ill., to Joseph A. and Bertha Stahley Zehr. Died: March 14, 1994, Chenoa, Ill. Survivors - son: Delmar; 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by: Amsy "Bud" Yordy (husband) and Herbert (son). Funeral: March 17, Waldo Mennonite Church, by Lester Zook. Burial: Waldo Township Cemetery.

Died:
(Gridley)

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Ella married Amsy Daniel (Bud) Yordy on 13 Dec 1922 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. Amsy (son of Jacob K. Yordy and Kathrine (Katie) B. King) was born on 2 Apr 1901 in Tazewell Co., IL; died on 7 Dec 1980 in Gridley, McLean Co., IL; was buried on 9 Dec 1980 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Zehr, --- Walter A., son of the late Joe A. and Bertha Zehr, was born Jan. 12, 1906, near Flanagan, Ill., and departed this life July 4, 1953; aged 53 y. 5 m. 24 d. On June 2, 1926, he was united in marriage to Leola Kipfer of Hopedale, Ill., who survives with 2 children (Donald and Phyllis) and 2 grandchildren all of Flanagan, Ill. He also leaves 3 brothers (milo, Roy, and Lloyd), and 2 sisters (Mrs. Amzy Yordy and Mrs. Roy Roeschley). He was preceded in death by his mother one week before, and also by his father and one brother. At an early age he accepted Christ as his Saviour and united with the Waldo Mennonite Church, Flanagan, Ill. He lived a Christian life in his home and community. He was a kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Funeral services were conducted at the Waldo Mennonite Church in charge of E. J. Stalter and J. D. Hartzler. Burial was in the Waldo Cemetery.

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Walter married Leola Kipfer on 2 Jun 1926. Leola was born on 9 Oct 1905; died on 17 May 1988; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obit:
Roeschley, Lola Zehr, 85, Flanagan, Ill. Born: March 14, 1908, Flanagan, Ill., to Joseph A. and Bertha Stahley Zehr. Died: Oct. 11, 1993, Flanagan, Ill. Survivors - husband: Roy R. Roeschley; daughters: Florence Birkey, Evelyn Erschen; sister: Ella Yordy; 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren. Funeral: Oct. 14, Waldo Mennonite Church, by Lester Zook. Burial: Waldo Cemetery.

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Lola married Roy Robert Roeschley on 16 Feb 1936. Roy (son of John D. Roeschley and Elizabeth Orendorff) was born on 2 Sep 1907 in Livingston Co., IL; died on 17 Apr 2004 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Mechanic Chaffey Union High School
• Religion: Protestant (First Mennonite Church, Upland, California)
• Census: 1910, Hamilton, NE

Lyle married Esther Helen Ledig on 11 Sep 1926 in Upland, San Bernardino Co., CA. Esther was born on 6 Oct 1902 in Alta Loma, CA; died on 9 Feb 1983 in Upland, San Bernardino Co., CA; was buried on 23 Feb 1983 in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Education: Chaffey High School-1928
• Religion: First Mennonite Church, Upland, CA
• Census: 1910, Hamilton, NE
• Census: 1930, Ontario, San Bernardino, CA

Maysel married Jack Nyle Barnes on 2 Jul 1933. Jack was born on 7 Jul 1906 in Pamona, Los Angeles Co., CA; died on 16 Nov 1989 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles Co., CA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Maysel married George W. Gee [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Education: Chaffey High School-1932
• Occupation: Practical Nurse
• Religion: Protestant
• Census: 1930, Ontario, San Bernardino, CA

Notes:

Buried:
Bellevue Memorial Park

Fern married Herbert Willard (Bob) Williams on 19 Jan 1941 in Yuma, Yuma Co., AZ. Herbert was born on 22 Feb 1914 in Lincoln, Lancaster Co., NE; died in Sep 1985 in Cucamonga, CA; was buried in Ontario, San Bernardino, CA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer
• Religion: East Bend Mennonite Church

Notes:

Lived and farmed near Rantoul for 60 years.

Birth:
Allentown Rd.

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Albert married Anna Good on 23 Dec 1915 in Wayland, Henry Co., IA. Anna (daughter of Joseph B. Good and Fannie Beller) was born on 20 Oct 1891 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 13 Jan 1988 in Gibson City, Ford Co., IL; was buried on 11 Jan 1988 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Died:
Floyd Kelly officiating funeral

Buried:
East Bend Memorial Gardens

Other Events and Attributes:

• Baptism: 19 Feb 1911, Champaign Co., IL

Notes:

Baptism:
East Bend Mennonite Church by Peter Zehr

Buried:
East Bend Memorial Gardens

Ervin married Agatha Wiens on 9 Aug 1928 in Beatrice, Gage Co., NE. Agatha (daughter of Peter Wiens and Anna Jantzen) was born on 10 Oct 1897 in Beatrice, Gage Co., NE; died on 28 Sep 1990; was buried on 2 Oct 1990 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obit:
Lovina Heiser Gerber-Morton IL, M. Menno Gerber-Gerber-. Lavina C, 100, Morton, Ill., died June 4. Spouse: Menno Gerber (deceased). Parents: Isaac and Mary King Heiser. Child: Ethel Mae King (deceased); four grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren. Funeral: June 9 at Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home, Morton.

Buried:
Pleasant Grove Mennonite Cemetery

Lavina married Menno Samuel Gerber on 31 Aug 1922 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. Menno (son of Bishop Samuel Gerber and Magdalena Sears (Zehr)) was born on 24 May 1900 in Groveland, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 2 Mar 1988 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; was buried in Tremont, Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Obit:
Ferne Heiser Ropp-Tremont IL, M. Reuben Ropp-Ropp.- Ferne Heiser, 95, Tremont, Ill., died March 21. Spouse: Reuben J. Ropp (deceased). Parents: Isaac and Mary King Heiser (deceased). Survivors: children Dorothy Mooberry, Donald, Kenneth; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren. Funeral: March 25 at First Mennonite Church, Morton, Ill.

Buried:
Pleasant Grove Mennonite Cemetery

Mary married Reuben Jospeh Ropp on 25 Jan 1928 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. Reuben was born on 7 Sep 1903 in Tremont, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 23 Jan 1961 in Tremont, Tazewell Co., IL; was buried in Tremont, Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

Jesse married Luella Catherine Guth on 1 Aug 1923 in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL. Luella (daughter of John Guth and Barbara Wagner) was born on 14 Jul 1904 in Washington Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 2 Sep 1992 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried on 4 Sep 1992 in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Earl Hetzel. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Hopedale Mennonite Cemetery

Family/Spouse: Ervin Litwiller. Ervin (son of Benjamin Litwiller and Emma Litwiller) was born on 21 Jan 1897; died on 7 Feb 1980 in Peoria, Peoria Co., IL; was buried in Hopedale, Tazewell Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ike was born to Daniel and Phoebe King Heiser. He married Helen C. Rapp on May 28, 1931, in Morton. She preceded him in death on July 7, 1998.

Surviving are one son, Lee (and Roxanne) Heiser; one daughter, Myra Cook; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Elton owned and operated Heiser Insurance Agency in Morton for 20 years, retiring in 1974. He also served as the Morton Township Assessor for more than 30 years.

He was a charter member of the Morton Optimist Club and served as secretary of the Morton School Boards for many years. 

He was a member of the Morton United Methodist Church.

Buried:
Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery

Elton married Helen Ropp on 28 May 1931. Helen was born on 23 Mar 1909; died on 7 Jul 1998. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: James Snowden. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Married a Frobish.

Family/Spouse: Edward Plesha. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery