Mary Elizabeth Wertenberger Douglass (1839-1906)

DOUGLASS, WERTENBERGER, HOCHSTETTLER, FOY

Posted By: Gail and Dennis Bell
Date: 5/29/2005 at 10:58:47

THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, February 8, 1906, page 1, column 4. "Obituary. - Mary Elizabeth Wertenberger was born in Ashland county, Ohio, Nov. 14, 1839, and died in Kalona, Ia., February 3, 1906. Aged sixty-six years, two months and twenty-nine days. While yet in Ohio, Nov. 16, 1863 she was united in marriage to John Douglass. With her family she came to Iowa in the fall of 1869 and settled in Clark county. They remained in that part of the country but one year when they removed to Polk county and settled south of Maxwell. To this couple were born four children all of whom are living and all were present at the funeral, viz: Mrs. Ella Hochstettler, of Kalona, Ia., I. W. Douglass, of Maxwell, Mrs. Arvilla Foy and John Douglass living near Maxwell. She leaves also one brother in Ohio and a sister in Illinois. Mr. Douglass passed to the land beyond April 28, 1901. The dear wife has since traveled the lonely road of widowhood but all that faithful and loving hearts could do has been done for her by her children and the loved ones gathered with them. Mrs. Douglass was converted, probably, in 1870 or 76 and united with the Evangelical church of which she remained a member until 1896, when, having moved to Maxwell, she and her husband united with the C. P. church, of which she remained a faithful member until God said, "It is enough, come up higher." Mrs. Douglass was a faithful and sympathizing friend and many will remember her for the kind care and sympathy afforded them, by her, in sickness and trouble. She loved her children and with loyal heart tried to train them for the highest good of earth and heaven. She loved her church, and ever sought its honor and effectiveness. She loved her God and Savior and ever sought to serve him by loving words of encouragement and deed of helpfulness to and for those whom he placed under her influence. She died as she had lived with loyal, faith in God and His promises. Her long sickness and suffering were meekly born and she made her preparations for the last journey with the same calm faith which had characterized her life. The remains were brought to Maxwell for burial, arriving here Sunday morning. The funeral was held at the c. P. church, in charge of Rev. VanNice, of Waukon. The floral contributions were very elaborate showing the high esteem in which Mrs. Douglass was held. The children of Mrs. Douglass are very appreciative of the kindness shown to them by friends in their time of great bereavement."

THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, February 8, 1906, page 1, column 1. "Loring - …. This community was again saddened by the death of Mrs. Mary Douglass, as she used to live here and attended church at Mt. Zion. She was a good christian woman and has gone to reap her reward, as we all shall do sooner or later. As we sow so shall we reap."