Eileen Alice Witmer

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/179007862
• Name: Eileen Alice Reier
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-256978

Notes:

REIER, Eileen Passed away peacefully at University Gates Long Term Care Home in Waterloo on Friday, April 28, 2017, at the age of 92 years. Best friend and wife of the late Kenneth Reier (2013) for 68 years. Much loved mother of Gordon (Doris) Reier, Dianne Bailey, Sharon (Andre 2009, Brian Skerrett) Blom, Keith (Elizabeth) Reier, and Margaret (Jon) Tobin. Long-time foster mother of Cheryl and Clarence Michael Cachagee. Sister of Esther (Ralph) Holmberg. Grandma of Theresa and Todd Bailey, Brendan (Justine) Blom, Anton (Heidi) Blom, Sophie Blom, Kristen (Mark) Falkenburger, and Philip Reier. Great- grandma of Kailey Falkenburger, Talia, Naia, and Reuben Blom. Predeceased by her parents Willard and Avon (nee Snyder) Witmer, brothers Gordon (Eva) Witmer and Calvin Witmer, and sisters-in-law Lorene Willing and Jean Hornburg. Eileen will be remembered for her quiet strength. She was kind, compassionate, giving of herself to her family, her friends and to those she met through a life of service in the Mennonite faith. Over her lifetime she developed a love for gardening, music, many crafts and travel. As a young woman, she played the piano and organ and sang in a quartet. When her daughters were young she led a local 4H girls club. Eileen enjoyed quilting and led the Mannheim Mennonite Church quilting group for many years in creating a new quilt each year for the Mennonite Relief Sale. In later years, she enjoyed travelling in North America and Europe with her husband Kenneth. She volunteered in the craft rooms at Nithview and Fairview retirement homes. She will be missed by her many friends at Mannheim Mennonite Church and at her retirement residence at Fairview Home in Cambridge. Many thanks to the staff at University Gates Long Term Care for their kind care and support. A Visitation and Memorial Service celebrating the life of Eileen will take place at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home , 171 King Street South, Waterloo on Saturday, May 6, 2017. Visitation is at 2 p.m., followed by the service at 3 p.m. A reception will follow the service. Cremation has taken place. An interment ceremony will take place at Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery following the reception. Memorial donations to the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) or the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging Foundation can be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.

Trees, Memorial, Funeral Homes, and Eileen Reier. 2022. "Eileen Reier Obituary". Tributearchive.Com. https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/24594580/eileen-reier.

Eileen — Kenneth Franklin Reier. Kenneth (son of Abia Reier and Ethel May "Effie" Eckstein) was born 29 Jun 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 21 May 2013, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

1. Gordon Ross Reier

Other Events:

• Business: Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Witmer's General Store
• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/47311757
• Name: Willard Witmer
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-22871P
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Elected Office: 1954, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Reeve/Mayor
• Elected Office: 1955, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Warden for the County of Waterloo

Notes:

Witmer, Willard, son of Isaiah and Jemima (Swartz) Witmer, was born in Wilmot Twp., Ont., May 10, 1898; died at Stratford General Hospital, from cancer, Dec. 27, 1967; aged 69 y. 7 m. 17 d. On Mar. 31, 1920, he was married to Avon Snyder, who survives. Also surviving are 3 children (Gordon, Eileen-Mrs. Kenneth Reier, and Esther-Mrs. Ralph Holmberg), his mother, 4 brothers (Leslie, Joyce, Homer, and Lincoln), and 4 sisters (Stella-Mrs. John Kehl, Lilly-Mrs. Arthur Snider, Etta-Mrs. Emmanuel Swartzentruber, and Susie-Mrs. Edward Knechtel). He was a member of the Mannheim Church, where funeral services were held Dec. 30, with Gordon Bauman and Osiah Horst officiating.

Gospel Herald - Volume LXI, Number 7 - February 20, 1968, p. 159, 160

______________________

Former County Warden Witmer Dies In Hospital

J. Willard Witmer, a former warden of Waterloo County, and former Reeve of Wilmot Township, died December 27 at Stratford Hospital after a brief Illness at the age of 69.

The late Mr. Witmer farmed in Wilmot Township for many years and owned and operated Witmer's General Store in Baden for 18 years, retiring two years ago.

He was active In Wilmot township politics, serving as reeve from 1954 to 1960 and was a member of Wilmot council for 14 years. He was warden of Waterloo County in 1955.

Mr. Witmer was born May 10, 1898 in Wilmot, a son of Mrs. Isaiah Witmer of Kitchener and the late Mr. Witmer and was a life long resident of this area. He was a member of the Mannheim Mennonite Church and was a Sunday School teacher and a former member of the church council.

Surviving besides his wife, the former Avon Snyder whom he married on March 31, 1920 in Waterloo Township, are his mother, who lives In Kitchener; one son, Gordon E., Kitchener; two daughters, Mrs. Kenneth (Eileen) Reier, RR1, New Dundee, and Mrs. Ralph (Esther) Holmberg, Waterloo; four brothers, Rev. Leslie, Baden; Joyce and Lincoln, both of Kitchener, and Homer, Bridgeport; four sisters, Mrs. John (Stella) Kelil, and Mrs. Emmanuel (Etta) Swartzentruber, both of Kitchener; Mrs. Arthur (LUy) Snyder, Baden, and Mrs. Edward (Susie) Knechtel, RR 2, Petersburg; 13 grandchildren and one great-grandson. He was predeceased by one son, Calvin and three grandchildren.

The service was held at Mannheim Mennonite Church Saturday afternoon with Rev. Gordon Bauman officiating and burial followed in the adjoining cemetery. The Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Home was In charge.

Joseph married Avon Bechtel Snyder 31 Mar 1920, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Avon (daughter of Christian B. Snyder and Esther Bechtel) was born 29 Sep 1899, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 1988; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/47311835
• Name: Avon Bechtel Witmer
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-23467P
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00003-605.6
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard
• Occupation: 1894, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Teacher
• Occupation: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1929, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Witmer. --- Isaiah B., son of Isaac Witmer and Leah Baer, was born March 16, 1874, in Wilmot Twp., Ont.; passed away suddenly Aug. 29, 1950; aged 76 y. 5 m. 13 d. June 20, 1894, he was united in marriage to Jemima Swartz. This union was blessed with 5 sons (Willard, Leslie, Joyce*, Homer, and Lincoln), and 4 daughters (Stella-Mrs. John Kehl, Lily-Mrs. Arthur Snyder, Etta-Mrs. Emanuel Swartzentruber, and Susie-Mrs. Ed Knechtel). He is also survived by 26 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren, 2 brothers (Wesley and Edmund), and 5 sisters (Emma-Mrs. William Spaetzel, Nancy-Mrs. Jacob Spaetzel, Tina-Mrs. Noah Otterbein, Rebecca-Mrs. Enoch Gingrich, and Sarah-Mrs. Sam Schmidt). He accepted Christ at the age of eighteen and was faithful to his Lord until death. In 1923 he was ordained to the office of deacon; he served faithfully for twenty-seven years. He was also a conference member of the Welfare Board. He delighted in studying God's Word. His kindly counsel and advice will be missed by his friends. Funeral services were held Sept. 1 at the Latschar Mennonite Church, Manheim, Ont., in charge of Oiah Horst, assisted by Moses Roth. Text: Matt. 24: 44.

Gospel Herald - Volume XLIII, Number 49 - December 5, 1950 --- page 1205, 1206

Isaiah married Jemima Schwartz 20 Jun 1894, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Jemima (daughter of Abraham H. Swartz and Susannah Bergey) was born 5 Sep 1875, Brant Twp., Bruce Co., Ontario, Canada; died 1971; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Jemima Witmer
• Eby ID Number: 00004896.3
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farm Laborer
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00106-6063
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Agricultural Laborer
• Occupation: 1901, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1921, Erbsville, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1921, Erbsville, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Christian B. Snyder, "was born January 12th, 1862. On October 7th, 1885, he was married to Esther Bechtel. They reside near Hespeler, Ontario, where he is engage in farming. To them is born one child "

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

____________________

Snyder-Christian B., son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Moses K. Snyder, was born in Wilmot Twp., Jan. 12, 1862; passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ephraim Knetchel, Petersburg, Ont., April 19, 1944; aged 83y. Bro. Snyder's death was due to a heart attack a few days previous. He suffered from a weak heart for a number of years. He was married to Esther Bechtel who predeceased him June 4, 1940. To this union were born one son and 3 daughters; Percy, Rosebank; Edna ( Mrs. Ephraim Knechtel); Avon ( Mrs. Willard Witmer), Rosebank; and Ida (Mrs. Simon Hallman,) Kitchener, Ont.; who along with one brother (Moses), 28 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren all survive him. Bro. Snyder was a member of the Latschar church for many years. He was a quiet man, but he gave a silent testimony wherever he went because of his consistent life as a Christian. "He being dead, yet speaketh" Funeral services were conducted April 21 at his home in charge of Bro. Lorne W. Schmitt and at the Latschar Mennonite Church by Brethren M.S. Hallman and Lorne Schmitt. Interment was in the adjoining cemetery.

Gospel Herald - Vol. XXXVII, No . 8 - May 26th 1944 page 151, 152

Christian married Esther Bechtel 7 Oct 1885, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Esther (daughter of Noah S. Bechtel and Veronica "Fannie" Christner) was born 5 Dec 1863, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 4 Jun 1940, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Esther Snyder
• Name: Nellie Bechtel
• Eby ID Number: 00007-0719
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1921, Erbsville, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1932, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Esther Bechtel "was born December 5th, 1863. She is married to Christian B. Snyder. They reside near Hespeler, Ontario, where he is engaged in farming. They have one child named VII Edna."

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].
___________________

Snyder. --- Esther, daughter of Noah and Veronica (Christner) Bechtel, was born Dec. 5, 1863; died at her home near Petersburg, Ont., united in marriage to Christian B. Snyder Oct. 7, 1885, to which union were born 1 son and 3 daughters: Percy, Edna (Mrs. Ephraim Knechtel) Avon (Mrs. Willard Witmer), all of Petersburg, and Ida (Mrs. Simon Hallman) of Kitchener. She is survived by 27 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild; also by 2 brothers (Moses Bechtel of Winnipeg, Man., and Noah Bechtel of Breslau, Ont.), and a host of relatives and friends. She was a faithful and loyal member of the Latschar Mennonite Church until her death, having accepted Christ in her late teens. Funeral services were conducted by Bros. Manasseh Hallman and Lorne Schmitt, Bro. Hallman using for his test Psa. 27: 1. The services were held at the home and at the Latschar Mennonite Church. The body was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Her testimony is well expressed in the following poem:
"Is not even death a gain to those
Whose life to God was given?
Gladly to earth their eyes they close,
To open them in Heaven."

Gospel Herald - Vol. XXXIII, No 17 - July 25, 1940

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00135-8304
• Residence: 1867, Guelph Township, Wellington Co., Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1911, New Dundee, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Income
• Residence: 1911, New Dundee, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard
• Retired: 1911, New Dundee, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Isaac Witmer, "is married to Leah Bear. They reside in Wilmot Township, near Huron Road. He is a farmer."


Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

_______________


Witmer. - Isaac Witmer was born April 3, 1842; died Jan. 10, 1929, at the home of his son J. Wesley, near Petersburg, Ont. On Nov. 5, 1867, he was united in marriage to Leah Baer and to this union were born ten children: Mrs. Wm. Spaetzel, New Dundee, Ont.; Mrs. Jacob Spaetzel, Petersburg, Ont.; Jonas, who died in his fourteenth year; Isaiah, Kitchener, Ont.; Mrs. Enoch Gingerich, Preston, Ont.; Mrs. Samuel Schmitt, Kitchener, Ont.; Mrs. Noah Otterbein, Petersburg, Ont.; J. Wesley, Petersburg, Ont.; Edmund, Kitchener, Ont.; and Mrs. Herbert Herner, who preceded him in death twenty-three years ago. These with 3 brothers (John, Listowel, Ont.; Benjamin of Sask.; Henry, Preston, Ont.), 1 sister (Mrs. Edward Grabiel, Fordwick, Ont.), 72 grandchildren, and 59 great-grandchildren survive. On Aug. 17, 1908, his wife was called to her eternal home. He was married on Feb. 1, 1910, to Elizabeth Doner of Stayner, Ont., who also passed to her reward on May 31, 1918. He was converted when forty-four years of age and united with the Brethren in Christ Church and lived a faithful and consistent Christian life. He served in the office of deacon in the Waterloo, Ont., district for a number of years. Because of a lingering illness he was confined to his bed for the past three years, yet he always bore his suffering with patience and Christian fortitude. Funeral services were conducted at the Rosebank church on Jan. 14, 1929, in charge of E. J. Swalm assisted by Simon Cober and Manasseh Hallman. Text, Psa. 107: 30. Interment in cemetery near by.


Gospel Herald - Volume XXI, Number 48 - February 28, 1929 - page 1005, 1006, 1007

Isaac married Leah Bear 5 Nov 1867, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Leah (daughter of Rev. John G. Bear and Anna "Nancy" Pannabecker) was born 2 Sep 1839, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 17 Aug 1908; was buried , Rosebank Community Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Leah Witmer
• Eby ID Number: 00003-605
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1867, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard

Notes:

Leah Bear, "was born September 2nd, 1839. She is married to Isaac Witmer. They reside in Wilmot Township, where he is engaged in farming. Their family consists of ten children"


Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

Other Events:

• Name: Abram Swartz
• Eby ID Number: 00108-6499
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Retired: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1932, 9 Cedar St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Abram Schwartz, "was born March 12th, 1852. He is married to Susannah Bergey. They reside on the old "Betzner Farm" near Doon."

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

____________________

Swartz.--Abraham Swartz of Kitchener, Ont., was born Mar. 12, 1852; died at the age of 80 y. 7 m. Bro Swartz was converted in early manhood, joined the Mennonite Church and remained faithful to his faith until death. He was predeceased by his wife (Susannah Bergey), nearly 8 years ago. He is survived by 1 son, 5 daughters, 1 brother, 1 sister, 30 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Bro. Swartz was known for his optimism, ever looking on the better side of things, expecting things to come, and ever had faith in the Lord, the cause and His people. He will be missed in the church circles. The funeral was conducted at the First Mennonite church by Bro. C. F. Derstine, the pastor. Burial at Latchaw Cemetery, Petersburg, Ont.

Gospel Herald - Volume XXV, Number 31 - November 3, 1932, Pg. 671

Abraham married Susannah Bergey 19 Nov 1872. Susannah (daughter of Jacob Bergey and Elizabeth Eby) was born 5 Oct 1854, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 9 Feb 1925, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Susannah Swartz
• Eby ID Number: 00004-896
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Susannah Bergey, "was born October 5th, 1854. She is married to Abram, son of Jacob Schwartz. They reside on the old "Betzner" farm near Doon. They have a family of nine children".

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

_______________

Susannah E. (Bergey), wife of Abram Swartz, was born Oct. 5, 1854; died Feb. 9, 1925; aged 70 y. 4 m. 3 d. She was united in matrimony to Abram Swartz Nov. 19, 1872. This union was blessed with ten children, four dying in infancy. She left a beloved husband, six children, many grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. She has been a faithful member and much concerned for the welfare of the Church. She was a member of the Kitchener congregation. Her body was laid away at the Manheim Cemetery where Brethren C. F. Derstine and Manassah Hallman conducted the funeral service. Peace to her ashes awaiting the resurrection morn.

Gospel Herald - Volume XVII, Number 47 - February 26, 1925, page 943

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/39811903
• Eby ID Number: 00106-6059
• Residence: 1851, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; mennonist
• Occupation: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Occupation: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Misfortune: 1901, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; killed in railway accident
• Residence: 1901, Wilmot Township - Concession 1 Lot 02, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Berlet's Corners - The funeral of Mr. Moses Snyder whose death occurred in the railway accident in Berlin Monday evening, June 3rd, took place Thursday morning and was very largely attended, there being about one hundred and forty rigs.

Wellesley Maple Leaf, June 13, 1901

___________________

Moses, Schneider, of Wilmot, Instantly Killed by a Train in Berlin.

His Wife Fatally Injured

The people of this district were shocked, last Monday evening, to learn the sad news that Mr. and Mrs. Moses Schneider, who have lived for half a century on their farm near Berlet's Corners, were run into by a Galt train at a crossing in Berlin that afternoon.

It appears the old couple were returning from attending a Mennonite convention. Mr. Schneider, being partly deaf, did not hear the warning whistle or the frantic screams of friends behind him. The train dashed into his buggy, smashing it to atoms, killing the horse, grinding Mr. Schneider's body almost to a pulp and horribly bruising his aged wife. She was at once taken to the hospital but so many bones were broken and her other injuries were so serious that no hopes of her recovery are entertained.

Deceased was between 70 and 80 years of age, most of which time had been spent on the homestead, lot II. con. 1, Wilmot, where he earned a competency for his family and gained a character for honor and Christian nobility which few attain.

We understand the funeral is to occur today at the Mennonite church between Philipsburg and St. Agatha.

Wellesley Maple Leaf Jun 6 1901 pg 5

____________

MET DEATH ACCIDENTLY

No Blame Attached to Rallway Employees

Jury Recommends Grand Trunk to Erect Gates at Crossings.

WERE COMING TO BERLIN TO DE- POSIT $200 IN THE BANK.

Moses K. Snyder and his aged life partner left their large, well cultivated farm, in Wilmot township, with its neatly appointed home, shortly after noon on Monday, to come to Berlin. Their mission was a two-fold one - Mr. Snyder wanted to have his measure taken for a new -suit of clothes, and in his inside coat pocket there was a roll of ten $20 bills, which he was going to deposit in the Savings Bank and add to the credit balance of $1,444.61. They drove to town in one of those aquare top buggies-one of which belongs to nearly every Old Mennonite family. The faithful old horse jogged slowly along, and bye and bye they came to town along Albert-st. Whether the occupants of the buggy were dozing or were interested in conversation is not known; but certain it is, they were oblivious of the danger that lay in the fast approaching train, and which proved to be, for one of them, at least, the Messenger of Death.

The train, bound for Galt, pulled out of the Berlin yards at 2.37, and was travelling at its ordinary speed, observing the usual whistle signals for the different crossings. The collision came with a frightful crash, the tender, which was ahead, catching the horse about midway. The buggy did not cross the track, being hurled against the whitewashed fence, breaking it down, and crashing the vehicle into a mass of kindling wood.

Mr. Snyder suffered almost instant death, his head being terribly smashed. He breathed his last just after being carried into the house. He appears to have been either struck by the train or hurled against the post of the fence. His body lay be side the track, having not crossed it. Mrs. Snyder was carried or thrown about 40 feet further, where she was picked up, apparently at the point of death. The horse, which was disembowelled, was spitted on a large stump fully fifty feet from where the collision took place, and over twenty feet from the track.

The train was brought to a stand- still as soon as possible and the bodles carried to Mr. Chr. Hopp's reisdence, near by. Coroner Lackner was telephoned for, from Bramm's mill, and he, with Dr. Kalbfleisch, was soon on the scene. Examination showed that Mr. Snyder was past all earthly help- but Mrs. Snyder was partially conscious. She had sustained several broken ribs, the left arm was fractured near the elbow and she had two cuts on her head. She told her brother, Samuel S. Bowman, that they had left home to bring some money to Berlin to bank, but could not remember whether they had done so. She asked her brother to see if the money was still on her husband's body, and if so, to take charge of it. The brother asked Mr. J. K. Master to look through the dead man's clothes, and in the inside pocket of his vest, was found a savings bank book and $200-ten $20 bills. The book showed a credit balance of $1,444.61; the last deposit having been made in December last. The watch in his vest pocket was still going, and showed 5.20 when taken from his prostrate form.

Mrs. Snyder's injuries were dressed and she was conveyed to the Hospital in a hack, accompanied by her brother and Dr. Kalbflelsch. The remains of her life partner were entrusted to Undertaker Surarus.

The scene of the fatality was visited by hundreds of citizens as soon as the news spread, and morbid curiosity attracted far more women and little girls, than men, who crowded into the Hopp house in swarms to look upon the ghastly sight.

Deceased has a family of seven children surviving: they are, Amos, near Baden; Christian and Noah, at Hespeler; Samuel on the homestead, and Moses. The daughters are Mrs. Noah Bechtel, at Waldau, and Miss Sarah. There is only one brother living- Absolom, at Breslau; and two sisters -Mrs. Tobias Bowman, near Hespeler, and Mrs. Honsberger, New Dundee.

Coroner Lackner called an inquest for 10 o'clock on Tuesday.

THE INQUEST.

The coroner had the following gentlemen sworn in as jurors:
JOHN UNGER, Foreman.
M. MASSEL.
A. DENGIS.
G. M. DEBUS.
P. HYMMEN.
A. SACHS.
A. WAGNER.
H. HELLER.
C. BERCK.
JACOB WELHEISER
F. SEIBERT.
JOHN LEWIS.

They visited the residence of Mr. Hopp and viewed the corpse of the old man, as well as the spot where the collision took place. After this, the coroner gave the relatives permission to prepare the remains for burial.

The funeral will be held on Thursday at 9 o'clock from his late residence to the Shantz church, two miles west of St. Agatha

The Jury came hack to Berlin and took the evidence in the Grand Central.

The Evidence.

Walter Jones, fireman on the Galt train, was sworn, and said: My run is from Galt to Elmira: my train ran between Berlin and Galt yesterday afternoon; it is due to leave Berlin 2.50; yesterday we were seven minutes late; when we are late we try to make up time and were doing so in this case; when we are on time we run about a mile in three minutes - yesterday we were running between 30 and 25 miles an hour. I have no instructions regarding the speed to be run in the town limits. The engine whistled for Albert-st. crossing: we are to whistle a quarter mile before each crossing, and the bell is to be rang continuously until the cross is made; the whistle was blown about half way between the two crossings.
I was on the right side going down; first saw the buggy when we were past the bank to our right. The rig was about ten feet from the track; I gave the signal to stop, and the engineer threw down the brake. I saw the engine strike; the horse had pretty well crossed over. All I could see of the people was the woman's head: our train could have stopped in about 150 yards; we were about 25 yards away from the crossing when I gave the signal to my mate. We came to a standstill about 100 yards past the crossing; the man was lying beside the track on the road. I do not think the man saw the train coming: we could not try to make up our seven minutes from the station to Albert-st. I rang the bell.


J. W. Mitchell.-1 am engineer on the G.T.R. running from Elmira to Galt; went from Berlin to Galt on Monday afternoon: we were seven minutes late; left station at 2.57; instructions are to whistle at the different whistling posts, which are about 400 yards from the crossing; I whistled for the Albert-st. crossing as we crossed the Mill-st. crossing. My fireman told me we were going to strike a rig, about 30 or 10 yards from the crossing. I closed off the throttle, put down the brake and stopped the train; generally run from 20 to 25 miles an hour: were not going any faster than usual; have no special instructions to speed within the corporations. Have to keep the bell ringing for all crossings: Jones was doing this yesterday. The road is not a dangerous one.

G. Whitlock-Conductor I heard the whistle blow and felt the application ol the brakes, near the crossing: he was in the coach punching tickets as the time; heard the whistle for Albert-at. crossing.

Samuel B. Schneider-I saw the accident: I was on Mill st. at the time: saw the train cross Mill-st; had a full view of Albert-st crossing; heard the train whistle just before crossing Mill-st. Did not hear the bell ring. I saw the rig near the crossing; first about three or four rods from the track: the horse was walking the persons could easily see the train they had looked; I saw the train strike the rig; do not think the horse or driver saw the train, which struck both horse and rig. I do not think the Grand Trunk is to blame; I think the train was going its ordinary rate.

Mrs. Blankstein, living near Albert- st., crossing, saw the accident. Heard the train whistle three times. Saw the people drive by her house; both man and woman were awake.

The Verdict

The Jury decided enough evidence had been heard and draw up the following verdict:

We, the Jury empanelled to enquire as to the death of Moses K. Snyder, find that the deceased came to his death by being struck by & Grand Trunk engine on the Galt Branch, and that no blame is attached to any of the railway's employees in consequence of this accident.

Your Jury feel that, owing to the numerous accidents that have occurred in Berlin within the last few years at various crossings, the Grand Trunk Railway should provide gates for all crossings in Berlin.

Berlin News-Record - 06 Jun 1901, Thu Page 8

Moses married Lydia Bechtel 15 Jun 1852, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Lydia (daughter of Samuel Bechtel and Barbara Bauman) was born 15 Nov 1830, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 28 Aug 1886, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Shantz Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Township, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/39812001
• Name: Lydia Snyder
• Eby ID Number: 00007-0671
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/20705482
• Eby ID Number: 00007-0708
• Occupation: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Yeoman
• Residence: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Occupation: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Retired: 1901, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Noah S. Bechtel "was born in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, September 22nd, 1818. On March 13th, 1841, he was married to Veronica, daughter of John and Maria (Luckebihl) Christner. She was born in Upper Alsace, Germany, September 28th, 1820. Shortly after their marriage they moved on a farm a few miles north-west of St. Agatha, Wilmot Township, where they resided until 1869 when they moved about three miles south-west of New Hamburg, on lot No. 25, Block A, where they still reside. They had a family of eleven children"

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

_____________________

NOAH BECHTEL.

Mr Noah Bechtel, an old resident of Waterloo T'p, a few miles east of Berlin, passed away on Monday. The funeral took place on Wednesday, leaving his late residence at 9 a.m.

Noah S. Bechtel was born in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, Sept 22nd, 1818. In March, 1841, he was married to Veronica, daughter of John and Maria Christner. Shortly after their marriage they moved on a farm a few iniles northwest of St Agatha, where they resided until 1869, when they moved about three miles south- west of New Hamburg.

The Chronicle Telegraph, 5 Sep 1901, p. 5

______________

How They Farmed Sixty Years Ago

…I can well remember when Noah Bechtel, uncle of John B. Bricker our genial corn borer inspector for Waterloo county, shot a large black grizzly bear in October, 1863. They had seen the bear eight miles north where there was a large bush and swamp, called Queen's Bush, where the farmers had their pigs to get acorns and beechnuts, which were plentiful. Mr. Bear came out sometimes to help them to butcher. We had no selects, a pig was a pig. One day a squad went after him but did not get him. Later in October he came trotting along through Wilmot township. Moses Bechtel and Christian Hallman were ploughing beside Noah Bechtel's cedar swamp when he came walking right up to them. They went in and Bechtel brought his rifle with him. They followed the bear's tracks for a mile from the swamp, through John Forler's swamp, then across the road into another 400 acre bush. John Forler hitched his carriage team into the democrat, drove to Petersburg, and brought a man up with a hound, and John Ernst Jr. came along with his bulldog. Wm. Miller put his hound on the trail and in a short time found Mr. Bruin sound asleep. Miller fired a shot and the bear came trotting through the swamp with the dogs after him. When he saw that he was surrounded it did not take him long to climb a tree. Noah Bechtel, with a well aimed shot, brought the bear down. …

Waterloo Chronicle, 5 Jul 1928, p. 9

Noah married Veronica "Fannie" Christner 13 Mar 1841, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Veronica (daughter of Johannes "John" Christner and Maria Luckebihl) was born 28 Sep 1820, Upper Alsace, Germany; died 21 Apr 1907; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/20705613
• Name: Veronica "Fannie" Bechtel
• Eby ID Number: 00022-1616
• Residence: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Veronica Christner, "the fourth and youngest child of John Christner, was born in Upper Alsace, September 28th, 1820, came to America in 1825 and settled in this county in October of the same year. On March 13th, 1841, she was married to Noah, son of George B. Bechtel. they reside on a farm three miles south-west of New Hamburg. Their family consisted of eleven children".

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].