Christopher, Jens 1810 – 1897

CHRISTOPHER, BIERMAN, HALVORSON GROVES, SMITH

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 5/19/2024 at 21:00:45

Source: Decorah Republican Dec. 9, 1897 P 1 C 6

OBITUARY.
JENS CHRISTOPHER was born in Vang, Valders, Norway, Feb. 15th. 1810, and died in Decorah at 6 a. m. Dec. 6th, 1897.
In 1853 deceased brought his family to this country and located in Wisconsin. The following year he came to Iowa, secured land in Springfield township, whereon he resided until l866, when he sold his farm, moved into Decorah, which has ever since been the family home. Deceased was the father of ten daughters and two sons, five of whom preceded him to their last home, Three daughters died in infancy, Mrs. E. E. Bierman died nine years ago, and the eldest daughter. Mrs. Halver Halvorson. died last spring. The surviving children are two sons, Eber and Martin Christopher, and five daughters, viz: Miss Belle Christopher, Mrs. Andrew H. Groves, Mrs. A. C. Smith, Miss Mary Christopher, who reside in Decorah, and Miss Emily, who is living in Chicago. The aged companion also survives him. Mr. Christopher was a deeply religious man. The bible his most precious book; his only standard by which our lives must be measured, but, realizing that our best efforts fell short of his standard, he placed all his hope in Jesus This was his last testimony to his pastor a few days before the end, when Rev. A. Jacobson administered the sacrament, read and talked with him a long time. The 14th chapter of St John was a special comfort to him. The parting words of Jesus to his desciples in the first two verses of this chapter were the last that the deceased was able to hear. He was an active member of the United Lutheran church and in politics he was a staunch Republican.
He was interested in missionary work, in history, in the progress of the world, in the governmental affairs of this country, as well as those of his native land. As a young man he served seven years in the regular army of Norway. Four years ago, in a long and serious illness, his sight was impaired. This difficulty increased, and during the last year he could only distinguish light from darkness. He bore this cross as well as his increasing infirmities, with patience. Indeed, he seldom alluded to his trials, but always listened with sympathy to other people’s tales of sorrow and pain. He appeared to forget his own cross in feeling for others.
Six weeks ago he became sick, but no serious result was anticipated until about ten days before the end. All that untiring care and devotion could do to lighten and alleviate his suffering was his. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Blessed be the memory of a true, good man.
Funeral was held yesterday from the family residence, 408 Mechanic street.

Phelps Cemetery
 

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