DIRKS, Stena 1867-1938

DIRKS, WICKERS

Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 1/9/2017 at 11:46:18

Mrs. Jans Dirks Dies After Long Illness

Mrs. Stena Dirks, nee Wickers, was born Sept. 23, 1867, at Osterhusen, Eastfriesland, Germany. When a child of 6 months she came with her parents to America, settling near Freeport, Ill. About five years later the family moved to Grundy county, Iowa, where the deceased was a resident for over 70 years.

On October 26, 1888, she was married to Jans Dirks, to which union were born four children. They are: Anna, Ben, Ella and Cornelia.

It was their joy and privilege to journey together through life nearly 44 years. Practically their entire wedded life was spent in Beaver township. It was in 1897 that they moved on a farm near the place known as Leer, which farm became theirs; here the family resided until they discontinued farming and moved to Stout in 1915.

On May 20, 1932, the deceased experienced the loss of her husband, who passed out of the realm of this life quite suddenly. As she was now alone and lonely, she decided to get a girl companion, and she happily succeeded in getting Marion Learned, who has shown herself a loving and praiseworthy companion to her.

The death of Mrs. Dirks marks the passing of another charter member of the Reformed church of Stout. The number of members was 17 at the time of the organization of the church.

Mrs. Dirks was always a faithful attendant at divine service. She thus set a noble example for her children and others who knew her.

She had a lingering sickness for over six months. Although in spite of her suffering, she was patient and resigned to her lot. However she had a desire to depart and be with Christ in whom she trusted unwaveringly.

She passed away early Saturday morning, June 4, 1938, reaching the age of 70 years, 8 months, and 12 days.

She leaves to mourn her departure the four children: Mrs. Anna Rich, Ben Dirks, Ella Schuck, Mrs. Cornelia Nieman; six grandchildren; two adopted grandchildren; her faithful companion, Marian Learned; one sister, Mrs. Herman Petersen; besides many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 7, 1 o'clock at the home with a brief service, and then the services at the Reformed church of Stout, with Rev. M. J. Heyenga, pastor, officiating.

Interment in the family lot in the Stout cemetery.

--The Grundy Register (Grundy Center, Iowa), 9 June 1938, pg 4