Reckner, Louise Marie (Bielefeld) 1829 - 1908

RECKNER, BIELEFELD

Posted By: Janice Sowers (email)
Date: 12/6/2006 at 17:41:17

From the Scrapbook of Newspaper Articles by Mrs. Lillian Wheeler

OBITUARY OF MRS. LOUISE RECKNER

After an illness of only three days Grandma Reckner died at her home in Alta Vista last Friday evening, July 10,1908 shortly before 6 o'clock, having reached an age of 81 years, 8 months, and 27 days. Death came to her not as an enemy, but as a friend; not as a shadow of darkness, but like a morning star proclaiming a most joyful and everlasting day unto her. Mother Reckner was well prepared to meet her Lord. She knew death could be but her gain. About a year ago her husband was suddenly taken from her side into eternity and although she could have been more easily taken care of at the home of any of her children she would by no means have parted from her dwelling for the reason that it was Mr. Reckner's last wish for her to live in the same house at least one year after his death. How closely our Heavenly Father often fulfills the prayers of His children! Did Mother Reckner imagine that she was about to take possession of the eternal mansion? There is no doubt but that she did. When she took sick on Tuesday, July 7, she said, "By next Sunday I shall look different." Thursday morning the Lord's supper was administered to her by the Lutheran pastor, Rev. Knappe, and althought the severe attack of inflammation of the bowels weakened the aged mother very much she was even able to ask for a cool drink shortly before midnight Thursday. After that she slept constantly until her end came.

Louise Marie Bielefeld was born October 13, 1829, in Berlin, Germany. In 1852, Aug.1, she was married to Mr. Carl Aug. Reckner. This unity was blessed with nine children, five sons and four daughters, of whom six remain to mourn. Three years after the marriage the family came to America and resided in Howard county for nearly forty-five years. In the year 1900 Mr. and Mrs. Reckner retired from the duties of farm life and moved to Alta Vista. They were true and faithful members of the Lutheran church, the deceased being also a member of the Ladies' Society of that church. During her earthly life there was for her no place like home. Being an example of a most sincere helpmate to her husband and an ever kind and loving mother towards her children, mother Reckner was respected by all who knew her.

The funeral services were held last Monday morning, July 13, at 6:00 o'clock from the house and at 9:30 in the Lutheran church. The Ladies' Society rendered an appriate song in honor of their departed member. The fine casket was covered with beautiful flowers, donated by the family, the Ladies' Society and other friends. Interment was made at the family cemetery, about five miles northwest from Elma.

Dearest mother, how we miss thee
In our broken band
Miss thy voice so full of sunshine
And thy helping hand
Oh, the world knew not thy value
The shady paths thy feet have trod
Led thee by the quiet waters
Ever thinking of thy God
Rest in peace our dearest mother
All her earthly cares are o'er
Gone from us who held her dearly
Here on earth to meet no more.