Luetjens (Lutjens), John H., 1853-1938

LUTJENS, LUETJENS, NINZEL, NINTZEL, NIUZEL

Posted By: Lydia Lucas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 6/27/2010 at 21:39:01

The late John H. Luetjens, son of Ahrend and Margarete Luetjens, was born in Oberndorf, Province Hannover, Germany, on the 26th of May 1853. At legal age he went to the village school and following catechetical instruction, being 15 years old, was confirmed by his pastor. After his confirmation, he learned the trade of a mason, remaining with his father, who also was a mason. In 1873 he migrated together with his parents from the old country and came to this country. Soon after their arrival they took up a homestead and father and son henceforth engaged in farming. After the death of his father, the deceased became sole owner of land 3 miles north of Boyden where he remained until the 1st of July 1921.

In the year 1877 he had joined hands in holy matrimony with Miss Marie Niuzel [Ninzel?] who shared with him for more than 60 years joy and sadness, survives him and mourns his loss.

To this union were born twn children of which seven are still alive. One daughter, Louise, preceded her father in death, when she had reached the age of 15 years; the other two were still born babies.

Besides Mrs. Luetjens, survive the following children: Miss Margarette Luetjens, Mr. and Mrs. John Luetjens, Mr. and Mrs. Gus Sohl, Mr. and Mrs. H. Schoenemann, Mr. and Mrs. John Tiedemann, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Stueven and Miss Marie Luetjens; also 19 grand-children and two great-grandchildren.

In 1921 he retired from active farm work and moved to Boyden.

Six years ago he had a paralytic stroke and many thought the end of his life had come, but he recovered. But ever since that, it was apparent, that Mr. Luetjens was not the same man as heretofore. Gradually his mental powers ebbed away and those near and dear to him had to watch him closely. To the honor of the children is must be said, they have performed their Christian duties toward their old father and God's promise concerning the 4th commandment will surely be fulfilled unto them. The heaviest load, of cource, Miss Margarette had to carry, who lives with her parents. Especially since last Sunday, when another stroke befell him and a few days afterwards pneumonia set in, which quickly brought about his departure. On Thursday afternoon, around three o'clock, calmly and quietly, without a struggle he fell asleep, to be awakened on that great day of resurrection.

The deceased was not only one of the pioneers of this part of the country, but the last one of the founders of St. John's congregation, whose faithful member he has been for more than 60 yrs. May he rest in peace. He reached the advanced age of 84 years, 7 months and 18 days.
[Generic sentimental poem omitted.]

Source: Boyden Reporter, Jan. 20, 1938.

NOTE: Other local news notes, as well as his widow's obituary (Sioux County Index, Nov. 13, 1947), spell his surname Lutjens. Her obituary spells her maiden name Nintzel.