ROENFANZ, Carl (1840-1918)

ROENFANZ, STINKE, HOFFMAN, BRODECK, GRELL, WEBBER

Posted By: Hancock Co Genealogical Society (email)
Date: 8/26/2014 at 15:03:51

OBITUARY OF CARL ROENFANZ

Carl Roenfanz was born Sept. 5, 1840, at Thurow, Pommerania, Germany, and died at the home of his son Albert in the early morning Aug. 23. 1918.

In the year 1865 he married Henrietta Stinke. To this union were born three sons and five daughters, one son and one daughter having died in early youth.

He came with his family to this country in 18*4 and lived a few months in Joliet, Ill. He then immigrated to Iowa and to this county.

He died of old age and departed as in peaceful sleep. The funeral took place on Wednesday, August 28 from St. John's church to the church cemetery. Rev. Koch conducting the sad rites, selecting St. John 2 25-33 for his text.

Grandpa Roenfanz was a good Christian, a kind and loving husband and father. He was a loyal supporter of the church and charity. He and his family were among the first pioneers here and wrought and endured the trials and hardships incident to that time. They proved worthy citizens in every emergency and were important factors in bringing about the high state of morals and progress that have been the reward of pioneers such as they.

During the past spring he suffered much the infirmity of old age and enjoyed much to visit with his pastor. He spoke of his willingness to leave this world and his perfect trust in his Savior. God plucked as it were a shock of grain fully ripe and while his aged wife and family mourn their loss they have a great consolation of a blessed reunion.

The children surviving him are Mrs. Wm. Hoffman of Pontiex, Canada; Mrs. Brodeck, Mrs. Grell and Mrs. Webber of Braner, Okla.; Mr. Albert Roenfanz of this community and Mr. Gus Roenfanz of Ft. Dodge.

They were all present at the funeral. The floral offerings were beautiful, showing the respect in which the deceased was held. The sympathy of the entire community is extended to the sorrowing wife and children.

source: Garner Signal, 4 Sep 1918, page 1