HERMINE RISTENPART

HERMINE RISTENPART

Age: 76 years, 2 months, 6 days

HERMINE (nee DANNE) RISTENPART

DOB: June 20, 1869
Washington Township, IL USA

DOD: August 26, 1945
Manteno State Hospital, Manteno, IL USA

Daughter of Henry and Wilhelmina (maiden name unknown) Danne

Sister to: Minna (Heinrich Ohlenkamp) Danne

Wife of William Ristenpart, married March 25, 1894, in St. Johns UCC, Beecher, IL USA.


September 6, 1945 – Beecher Herald

Mrs. Hermine Ristenpart Succumbs To Long Illness

Hermine Ristenpart obit 1Mrs. Hermine Ristenpart, aged 76, passed away, Sunday afternoon, at 2 o’clock at the Manteno State Hospital, after having been ill for more than a year following a stroke. She had been an inmate of the hospital for almost a year.

Funeral services were held, Wednesday, beginning at 1:30 p.m., at the Hack Funeral Home and at 2:00 o’clock at St. Lucas Church. Burial was in the Beecher Mausoleum.

Surviving are a niece, Mrs. Margaret Frese of Indiana; a nephew, Emery Ohlenkamp, of South Chicago, and a sister-in-law, Mrs. Geo. Kappe.

OBITUARY

Hermine Ristenpart obit 2Mrs. William Hermine (nee Danne) Ristenpart was born, June 20, 1869, in Washington Township, the daughter of the late Henry and Minnie Danne. Baptized, October 3, 1869, she was later, following her instruction in the great fundamentals of our Christian religion, confirmed in St. John’s Ev. & Reformed Church, April 1, 1883. On March 25th, 1894 she was united in holy wedlock with William Ristenpart, the ceremony taking place in the above mentioned church, with the late Rev. G. Koch officiating.

This union, although not blessed with children, was always a happy partnership of two loving, loyal hearts.

For the first fifteen years of their married life, the young couple lived on the Danne homestead, five miles south-west of Beecher, from where they came to Beecher, establishing their home in our community. On May 25, 1933, her husband was called to his eternal rest. Loyal to the memory of her departed husband, she carried on in Christian fortitude until May, 1944, when a paralytic stroke necessitated her removal to our Evangelical Hospital at Chicago. Somewhat regaining her strength, she was graciously taken into the home of her nephew, Emory Ohlenkamp, at South Chicago, who, together with his wife, accorded her tender loving care. Considerably stronger, she returned to her home in Beecher, but even though she was given the best of care here on the part of Mrs. Miley and Miss Miller and neighbors, it was soon found necessary for her niece, Margaret,(Mrs. Ernest Frese), to take her into her home. But here again, in spite of loving care and attention, her condition became such that in the later part of September 1944, she had to be removed to the Manteno State Hospital for treatment and care. Showing little improvement at first, she, at the beginning of this year, gradually began to regain her health. It was the impression of all who visited her regularly, an impression shared by twenty ladies, who in late July, called upon her and had her out for luncheon, that she might eventually fully recover, but when on August 23, she was unexpectedly stricken by another stroke resulting in coma, all hope for recovery vanished. She peacefully came to her death, Sunday, August 26, at 2:00 p.m., at the age of 76 years, 2 months and 6 days.

Hermine Ristenpart 3She leaves to mourn her departure, a nephew, Emory Ohlenkamp; one niece, Margaret, Mrs. Ernest Frese; two brothers-in-law; two sisters-in-law; and may other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted, Wednesday, August 29, beginning at 1:30 p.m., at the Hack Funeral Home and continued at 2:00 o’clock at St. Luke’s Church where her pastor Rev. G. Horst, spoke fittingly to a large attendance of relatives and friends. A duet composed of Mrs. Henry Meeter and Mrs. Irvin Albers, accompanied by Mrs. Rose Hunte, rendered three appropriate songs. Many beautiful floral pieces evidenced the high esteem of her relatives and friends. Interment was made in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The departed, who together with her late husband, held membership in St. Luke’s Church, as also for many years in the Women’s Guild, and up to her death in the Women’s Guild Auxiliary, was ever true to her Christian upbringing, proving herself a loving wife, a loyal Christian, a faithful attendant at divine service, a helpful, dependable friend and neighbor. May she richly experience the promise of God as contained in His Holy Word, “And God shall wipe away all the tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow or crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.” Rev. 21, vs 3-4


Hermine’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Husband: William Ristenpart
Sister-in-law & Brother-in-law: Emma (Ristenpart) Fiene & Henry F. Fiene
Sister-in-law & Brother-in-law: Minnie (Ristenpart) Kappe & George Kappe

 

LOUIS PRALLE

LOUIS PRALLE

Age: 75 years, 2 months, 24 days

LOUIS PRALLE

DOB: October 27, 1869
Beecher, Will County, Illinois, USA

DOD: January 20, 1945
St. James Hospital, Chicago Heights, IL, USA

Son of Henry & Wilhelmina (nee Stradtmann) Pralle

Brother to: William (Mary A. Schmidt), Justine Dorothea, Adolph (Augusta Klocksieben), Herman, Caroline Lena (Albert G. Ballascher), John Henry (Matilda Prill) and August  (Alvina & Emelia Meyer) Pralle

Husband of Minnie Mausehund, married October 18, 1897 in Cook County, IL

Father to: Louis William (Elizabeth Martin), Esther (Walter Lankenau & Edward Matthias), Malinda (Paul W. Hartmann), Lydia M., Louis Henry, Leo, Alice H. (John F. Stasko) Pralle


January 25, 1945 – Beecher Herald

LOUIS PRALLE RITES CONDUCTED, TUESDAY

Louis Pralle obit 1Louis Pralle, well known farmer of this community, passed away, Saturday morning, at 1:00 o’clock at St. James Hospital. After a lingering illness at his home, Mr. Pralle was taken to the hospital about two weeks before the end came.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. G. Horst at the Hack Funeral Home, Tuesday, at 1:30 p.m. Interment was in the Beecher Mausoleum.


January 25, 1945 – Beecher Herald

OBITUARY – JOHN HENRY LOUIS PRALLE

Louis Pralle obit 2The departed, John Henry Louis Pralle, son of Henry and Wilhelmina nee Stradtmann, Pralle. both deceased, was born Oct. 27, 1869, on the Pralle homestead, 2 miles southeast of this village. On February 20, 1870, he was baptized in St. John’s Evangelical and Reformed Church by Rev. F.G. Reinecke and thus received into the family of the children of God. Following instruction in the great fundamentals of our Christian religion, he was confirmed with a class of 28 in the above mentioned church by Rev. G. Koch.

On October 18, 1897, he was united in holy wedlock with Miss Minnie Mausehund, which union had six children, of whom one, in infancy, preceded the father in death. The surviving children, who mourn the passing of a kind and loving father, are: William, Beecher, Esther, Mrs. Rueben Lankanau, Peotone; Lydia, Chicago Heights; Leo and Alice, Beecher.

Immediately after marriage, the young couple settled on the old Pralle homestead where both of them occupied themselves diligently in the various arduous tasks of farming and were signally blessed in their efforts. On November 12, 1942, the shadows of death closed in on the family in the passing of the loving wife and mother. Continuing on the farm with his children, the departed, gradually failing in health, which two weeks ago took a decided turn for the worse, consented to be taken to St. James Hospital, Chicago Heights, where in spite of the best of medical skill and nursing he peacefully came to the end of his pilgrimage on Saturday, January 20, at 2:00 a.m., at the age of 75 years, 2 months and 23 days.

He leaves to mourn his passing, the children already mentioned, two sisters, Mrs. Lena Ballascher, Chicago Heights and Mrs. Louisa Seitz of Beecher; two brothers, August and William, both of Peotone; one daughter-in-law, one son-in-law, two grandchildren, three sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted, Tuesday, at 1:30 p.m., at the Hack Funeral Home, where Rev. G. Horst spoke fittingly to a large gathering of relatives and friends. A duet by Mrs. Harry Fick and pastor was rendered with Mrs. Henry Meeter as accompanist on the piano. A memorial wreath and beautiful floral pieces spoke well in memory of the departed. He was laid to rest in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The deceased, in spite of much affliction, possessed a kind, generous heart, which not only expanded itself as to his loved ones, but also readily responded whenever called upon by friends and neighbors. As a lifelong member of St. Luke’s congregation, he was never appealed to in vain towards the upkeep of his church and the building of the kingdom of God at large. Thus having shared with us the blessed knowledge of our Christian religion, its exhortations, promises, may he now experience, as we all some day hope to experience, the abundant grace of God.


Louis’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Wife: Minnie (Mausehund) Pralle
Mother: Wilhelmina (Stradtman) Pralle
Brother’s (Adolph’s) in-laws: Wilhelm Klocksieben & Augusta (Zimmerman) Klocksieben

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening.

MINNIE HUNTE

MINNIE HUNTE

Age: 81 years, 16 days

MINNIE HUNTE
(nee RUST)

DOB: October 22, 1862
Southwest of Beecher, IL USA

DOD: November 7, 1943
St. James Hospital, Chicago Heights, IL USA

Daughter of Friedrich and Gustine (nee Meyer) Rust
Sister to: Anna, Fred, Henry F. (Emma Meyer) Rust and William Meier (adopted brother)

Wife of Henry Hunte, married January 15, 1888, St. John’s UCC, Beecher.

Mother to: Albert (Vera Matthias), Carl F. and Herman (Malinda Fiene)  Hunte


(Editor’s note: All three of Minnie’s and Henry’s sons served in WW1)

June 27, 1918  – Beecher Herald – MORE BOYS TO GET KAISER

Eight Farmer Boys From Washington Township Are Called

Will Entrain Today From Joliet For Camp Wheeler, Georgia

6-27-1918 More Boys to Get KaiserEight more Washington Township boys have been called to the colors and went over to Joliet, yesterday, to make up a unit of 518 Will County men from class one, which will join Uncle Sam’s great army in the fight for a worldwide democracy. They are: Albert Hartman, Wm. Matthias, George Ostermeyer, Elmer Tatge, Albert Guritz, Louis Beseke, William Riechers and Louis Matthias.

Camp Wheeler MaconThis morning, the selected men, headed by a couple of bands, paraded the streets of Joliet, and at 10 o’clock they boarded a Chicago & Alton special for Camp Wheeler, Macon, Ga., their destination. It is expected the contingent will reach the cantonment at about 4 o’clock on Saturday morning.

Herman Hunte, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hunte, was called in the Kankakee County call, last week, and left, Monday, with the Grant Park contingent for Kankakee, where they entrained with boys from the company for some southern cantonment, the place we were unable to learn. The Red Cross and citizens of Grant Park gave the boys a grand send off and farewell reception, Saturday evening, at which the Red Cross presented each of the boys with a sweater and complete kit. Herman is the third and last son in this family to be called, Albert and Carl having gone south a couple of weeks ago.


November 11, 1943  – Beecher Herald 

MRS. HENRY HUNTE DIES AT AGE OF 81

Minnie Hunte DiesMrs. Henry Hunte, a pioneer citizen of Beecher, passed away at St. James Hospital, Sunday morning, at 11:00 o’clock. Mrs. Hunte, who attained the age of 81 years on October 22nd, had been in good health until several weeks ago when she suffered from the effects of a bad fall. Apparently fully recovering from this accident, she recently became ill and was removed to St. James Hospital, Nov. 2, where expert care was given her, but to no avail.

Surviving are her two sons, Carl, with whom she had been living in the family home on Woodward Street, and Herman, of South Holland; and one daughter-in-law, Mrs. Herman Hunte.

Funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.J. Merzdorf of St. John’s Ev and Reformed Church, (substituting for Rev. G. Horst), at the Hack Funeral Home, Tuesday, at 1:30 p.m. and at 2:00 o’clock at St, Luke’s Ev and Reformed Church. Interment was in the Beecher Mausoleum.

Obituary – Mrs. Minnie M. Hunte

Minnie Hunte obitThe departed, Minnie Marie Hunte, nee Rust, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Friedrich Rust, was born south and west of Beecher, October 22, 1862. She was received into the covenant of God’s grace through Holy Baptism in infancy. During her school age, she also received religious and confirmation instruction under the pastorate of Rev. Keuchen at St. John’s Evangelical Church. During the instruction season she stayed at the parsonage, helping the pastor’s family with the work of the household. With twenty-three other members, she was then confirmed in her Christian faith promising to be faithful to her Lord and Savior unto death, April 9, 1875. Throughout the years of her maidenhood, she remained loyal to her parents, assisting them in the work of their household. Then at the age of 26 years, she gave her heart and hand into marriage to Henry Hunte, January 15, 1888, when the Rev. Koch officiated at the ceremony. Out of this marriage, three children were born, three boys, and the oldest of these, Albert, preceded the mother in death, ten years ago. In October 1930, her husband was also taken from her side, leaving her a widow unto the day of her death.  She was a good wife to her husband and a good mother to her sons. For many years she was a faithful and loyal member of the St. Luke’s Church. She also was a charter member of the Ladies Aid Society of St. Luke’s and gave cheerfully and freely of her time and talents towards this organization. She held the office of secretary of the Ladies Aid Society for a number of years and also was treasurer. Later she also became a member of the Sewing Circle, where she served with interest until her health failed.

During the many years of a long life, she enjoyed good health with but a few exceptions. Last Monday, her latest illness became so serious that it was advisable for her to be removed to the hospital at Chicago Heights, where we visited her as acting pastor, praying with her and for her in the presence of her son, Carl. We promised to visit her again, this week, but God willed it different for her. She was called out of this world to her heavenly reward Sunday forenoon, at 11:30 o’clock, November 7, at the age of 81 years and 15 days.

She leaves to mourn her departure, her two sons, Carl of Beecher and Herman of South Holland, one daughter-in-law, Mrs. Herman Hunte; 2 brothers-in-law; Frank Hunte, Beecher; Fred Hunte, Springville, Iowa and August Hunte, Alhambra, California; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Frank Hunte of Beecher and Mrs. Henry Rust of Steger; besides cousins and other relatives and a host of friends.


Minnie’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Husband: Henry Hunte
Son: Albert L. Hunte
Son: Carl Hunte
Sister & Brother-in-Law: Henry F. Rust & Emma (Meyer) Rust
Parents of Sister-in-Law Emma (Meyer) Rust: Diedrich Meyer & Wilhelmina (Bock) Meyer
Father & Mother-in-Law of Son (Herman & Malinda (Fiene) Hunte): Heinrich F. Fiene &  Emma (Ristenpart) Fiene
Uncle & Aunt of son’s wife (Herman & Malinda (Fiene) Hunte): William Ristenpart & Hermine (Danne) Ristenpart
Aunt & Uncle of son’s wife (Herman & Malinda (Fiene) Hunte): Fredricke M. (Ristenpart Kappe & George Kappe


Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Pralle, Riley, Rohe, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening,

MINNIE PRALLE

MINNIE PRALLE

Age: 65 years, 1 month, 13 days

MINNIE PRALLE (nee MAUSEHUND)

DOB: August 29, 1877
near Peotone, IL

DOD: November 12, 1942
at home, Beecher, IL USA

Daughter of Henry & Elizabeth (nee Muehlhausen) Mausehund

Sister to: Bertha (Mathias M. Palzer), George (Christina Monk), Henry (Sena Madison), Christina (Charles Van Horn), Paul (Mina E. Hartman), Emma (Joseph S. Manning) Anna (Albert C. Tabbitt), John W. (Clara N. Mankus), Harold Mausehund

Half-sister to: Martin W., Emil and Walter E. (Murriel A. Pieper) Mausehund

Wife of Louis Pralle, married October 18, 1897 in Chicago, Cook Co., IL USA

Mother to: Louis William (Elizabeth Martin), Esther (Walter Lankenau), Malinda (Paul W Hartmann), Lydia, Louis Henry, Leo, Alice (John F Stasko) Pralle


November 26, 1942 – Beecher Herald

OBITUARY – MRS. LOUIS PRALLE

Minnie Pralle obit 1Mrs. Louis Pralle, nee Minnie Mausehund, was born, August 29, 1877 near Peotone. The child of Christian parents, she was soon after birth received into the family of the children of God through Holy Baptism in St. Peters Church, Frankfort. On October 18, 1897, she was married to her now sorrowing husband, Louis Pralle, the ceremony being performed in Chicago. Soon after marriage, the young bride took private instructions and was confirmed by the late Rev. G. Koch. Making their home on a farm, two miles southeast of Beecher, the young couple was blessed with six children, of whom one in infancy preceded the mother in death. The surviving children are: William, Beecher; Esther, Mrs. Ed Matthias, Beecher, Lydia, Chicago Heights; Leo and Alice at home. Greatly handicapped as to full enjoyment of life, the departed never complained, but lovingly and loyally performed the numerous and varied tasks of wife and mother. Even during the last three years when an incurable disease made itself known and felt so that she had to force herself to be up and around she persisted in carrying on as long as she possibly could. When the best of medical attention and skill gave but little or no hope for recovery the thought and certainty of approaching death did not upset her. Thus when the hour of her departure struck on Thursday, October 12, at 8:30 a.m., she peacefully went to sleep at the age of 64 years, 2 months and 13 days.

She leaves to mourn her passing, her husband and children already mentioned, her aged mother, Mrs. Henry Mausehund, Peotone; three sisters, Christina (Mrs. Charles Van Horn), Kankakee; Emma (Mrs. Joseph Manning), Peotone; Anna (Mrs. Earl Tabbitt), Kankakee; eight brothers, Paul, North Dakota; Henry, Iowa; Walter, Minnesota; George, Peotone; Harold, Peotone; Martin, Kankakee; Emil, in the armed forces; John, Peotone; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Minnie Pralle obit 2Funeral services were conducted, November 15, beginning at 1:30 p.m., at the Hack Funeral Home and continued at St. Luke’s Church, where their pastor, Rev. G. Horst, spoke consolingly in both the English and German languages; Mrs. Ervin Albers, Mrs. George Ostermeyer, Mrs. Arthur Boysen and Mrs. Harry Fick, rendered three appropriate songs. Gorgeous floral pieces, surrounding her casket, would have pleased her, a lover of flowers, greatly. She was laid to rest in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The deceased, more or less beset with certain limitations and difficulties, nevertheless proved herself a true loving wife and mother. Well realizing the blessing of religious training, of faith and hope in God, and things spiritual and eternal, she gave her children every opportunity and encouragement to be trained likewise in the things that have the promise of this and the future life. Having followed the gleam which God’s love and grace also shed into and upon her life, we may well hope and trust that she now happily realizes the blessed truth expressed in Zechariah 14, v.7: “But it shall come to pass, that at evening time there shall be light.”


Minnie’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Husband: Louis Pralle
Mother-in-law: Wilhelmina (Stradtmann) Pralle
Brother’s (Adolph’s) in-laws: Wilhelm Klocksieben & Augusta (Zimmerman) Klocksieben

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening.

 

LOUISE KOCH

Louise Koch

Age: 82 years, 11 months, 23 days

LOUISE KOCH
(nee FICK)

DOB: March 1, 1859
Du Page, IL USA

DOD: February 4, 1942
at home, Beecher, IL USA

 

Daughter of John & Ann (Sauer) Fick
Sister to: Fred (Agnes Vorkaufer), Minna, Heinrich (Emma Heldt), Emma (Fred Kirchhoff) and William Fick

Wife of Emil Koch Sr., married July 12, 1883 at St. John’s UCC Church.
Mother to: William G (Louisa Bodenvias), Emil Jr. (Louise Hussman) and Henry (Erna Schweer) Koch


July 20, 1933  – Beecher Herald

KOCHS, SR., OBSERVE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

Koch Anniversery 1933On last Wednesday, July 12, a well-planned successful surprise was tendered Mr. and Mrs. Emil Koch, Sr., highly esteemed couple of this community. The children, gratefully mindful of possessing heaven’s gift in their parents, lovingly planned and arranged to link this memorable day with the unforgotten day of 50 years ago.

Desiring to make it a surprise, about 85 immediate relatives and friends gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kirchhoff at 2:30 p.m., Mrs. Kirchhoff being an only sister of Mrs. Koch – and from there marched over to the home of the unsuspecting and fully unprepared couple.

Following the happy expressions of greetings and congratulations, all motored to the Community Hall, where later, in the basement, beautifully decorated for the occasion, a tasty luncheon was served to the happy celebrants. Rev, G. Horst, serving as toast-master, first read numerous congratulatory cards which during the day had been spirited away from the post office, and then called on various relatives and friends for a word of greeting and felicitation, all responding readily in giving due honor to the worthy groom and bride in their midst. Following an address by the Rev. G. Horst who, basing his words on Isaiah 45, V.4 brought out the loving kindness shown the aged couple throughout the years of their married life, a fine basket containing a beautiful bouquet of yellow tea roses, as a combined gift of the St. Lucas Ladies Aid and Sewing Circle, in both of which organizations Mrs. Koch holds active membership, was presented to the couple by the respective secretaries of said organizations. Rev. J.H. Koenig, father of Mrs. Horst, in well chosen words concluded the happy hour at the festive board.

Since everyone loves a bride and tolerates a groom, an additional surprise was tendered the couple later in the day by the appearance of the so-called “Hungry Five” a misnomer, unless it means musical hunger for more opportunities to display their extraordinary talents, who together with their leader, R. Wegert, rendered pleasing and suitable selections. With the lengthening shadows of evening enfolding the day the invited guests bid farewell to the honored couple in wishing them many happy returns of the day.


March 5, 1942 – Beecher Herald

PIONEER RESIDENT IS LAID AT REST TODAY

Louise Koch obit 1 (2)Mrs. Emil Koch Sr., passed away at 6 a.m., Tuesday, at the Koch residence on Gould Street. The deceased a pioneer resident of Beecher, had attained the age of 82 years. Since the death of her husband, some two years ago. Mrs. Koch had been in failing health and more or less an invalid.

Funeral services, (Thursday), at 1:30 o’clock at the Hack Funeral Home and 1:45 o’clock in St. Luke’s Ev. and Reformed Church, Rev. G. Horst officiating. Interment will be in the Mausoleum.

OBITUARY

Louise Koch obit 2Mrs. Emil Koch, Sr., one of the best known and highly esteemed residents of Beecher, was called to eternal rest, Tuesday morning, at 6 a.m., February 24th. She was born March 1, 1859, the child of Mr. and Mrs. John Fick, both deceased, and being baptized in early infancy, she was later, following a course of thorough religious instruction, confirmed with others, March 17, 1872, in St. John’s Church, east of Beecher, by the late Rev. F.G. Reinicke.

On July 12, 1883, she was married to Mr. Emil Koch, the ceremony taking place in St. John’s Ev. and Reformed Church, with the late Rev. G Koch officiating. This happy union was blessed with three sons and of whom, William, preceded the parents in death on September 16, 1933. The surviving sons, who deeply mourn the passing of one of the finest mothers, are Emil, Beecher, and Henry, Chicago Heights. Immediately after their marriage the young couple made Beecher their home.

Here in Beecher and surrounding territory, the young husband soon became known as one of the outstanding carpenters, plying this trade for 22 years. He, in 1905, established and successfully operated the so-called Koch’s Hardware Store.

In 1933 the grateful children secretly so planned in that time was taken out in their busy life for the celebration of their Golden Wedding Anniversary, an event that filled their hearts with deep lasting happiness. Seven years later, on March 29, 1940, this happy union of two loving kindred souls was dissolved by the death of the husband. Since that time the departed, suffering more or less from amnesia, made and found her home with her children, Emil Koch Jr.  Needing ever watchful attention and constant care which only those know who so faithfully took care of her, which care she gratefully appreciated and often gratefully spoke of, she just gradually, under the burden of years grew weaker and weaker until as mentioned above, she peacefully closed her eyes in death at the ripe age of 82 years, 11 months and 23 days.

She leaves to mourn; her two sons already mentioned; two daughters-in-law; 3 grandchildren, Gilbert Koch, Evelyn Koch (Mrs. Vance Gerringer),  and Dorothy Koch, one sister, Mrs. Fred Kirchhoff, Beecher, and a large host of other relatives and friends.

Louise Koch obit 3Funeral services were held Thursday, February 26, beginning at 1:30 p.m., at the Hack Funeral Home and continued at St. Luke’s Church, where her pastor, Rev. G. Horst, spoke in both the English and German languages to a very fine gathering of relatives and friends. A duet of sisters, Mrs. Erwin Albers and Mrs. Herman Seitz, rendered there appropriate songs. Beautifully arranged floral pieces testified of the high esteem in which mother Koch was held by all whose privilege it was to know her. She found her last earthly resting place in the Beecher Mausoleum.

It can be truly said of the departed that as loving wife, mother, neighbor and friend, she did all she could. As Tabitha or Dorcas, her life was full of good works and also deeds which she did. Blest with a true motherly heart she always felt and followed the urge of mothering all who needed help and care, and thus many whose hearts and homes she gladdened and brightened will always remember her as Mother Koch. Deeply religious, ever true and faithful in the essential abiding things in life, she as a charter member of both the St. Luke’s Women’s Guild, which presidency she held for a number of years and the St. Luke’s Women’s Guild Auxiliary, did willingly and gladly all that could be asked of her. Next to the home which always meant so much to her she loved the church, her Master’s Bride, and would seldom miss a service. Thus, having done all she could with no shadow resting upon her life, striving always to be found worthy in the eyes of God and fellow pilgrims, we may well think of her as fully realizing what the love of God has prepared for her and us. In saying fond farewell, we add a hopeful – ‘Auf wiedersehen’ in the realms above.


Louise’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Husband: Emil Koch Sr.

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Pralle, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening,

EDDIE MATTHIAS

Eddie Matthias

Age: 42 years, 4 months, 21 days

EDWARD “EDDIE” MATTHIAS

DOB: July 28, 1899
West  of Beecher

DOD: December 19, 1941
at home, south of Sollitt, IL USA

Son of William and Emma (nee Haunerberg) Matthies

Brother to: Alvina (Carl Clausing), Ida (Ernest W. Hannover), Sophia (William Buhr Jr.), Tillie (Otto Jaeger), Malinda (Martin Oldenburg), and William Jr. Matthias

Husband of Esther Pralle, married November 10, 1926. in Kankakee, IL


December 25, 1941 – Beecher Herald

LAST RITES FOR WELL KNOWN FARMER HERE

Eddie Matthias obit 1Eddie Matthias, aged 42, well known farmer residing south of Sollitt, passed away at his residence, Friday morning. Mr. Matthias had been suffering for some time with an incurable ailment. He submitted to an operation several months ago and had been under hospital treatment a greater part of the time since then. From the time, about three weeks ago, that he was last brought home from St. James Hospital, there was apparently little hope for his recovery. The deceased leaves to mourn, his wife; his mother, Mrs. William Matthias; one brother, William; five sisters, Mrs. Alvina Clausing, Mrs. Sophia Buhr, Mrs. Tillie Jaeger of Detroit, Mrs. Ida Hannover and Mrs. Linda Oldenburg, and a large number of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held, Monday, at 1:30 p.m., at the Hack’s Funeral Home and following at St. Luke’s Church, Rev. G. Horst officiating. Burial was made at the Beecher Mausoleum.

OBITUARY

Edward Matthias  

Eddie Matthias obit 2The departed, Mr. Edward Matthias, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Matthies, the former of whom was called into eternal rest, Jan. 11, 1937. Edward was born, July 28, 1899, 2.5 miles west of Beecher. The child of Christian parents, he was soon after birth received into the family of the children of God through the rites of Holy Baptism, performed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church by the late Rev. Albert Brauer. In addition to a fine home training he was later thoroughly instructed in the great fundamentals of our Christian religion, by Rev. G. Horst and confirmed at St. Luke’s Church with eleven others, April 5, 1914. On November 10, 1926, he was married to Miss Esther Pralle, the ceremony taking place at Kankakee. Immediately after marriage, the young couple started housekeeping and engaged in farming on the groom’s parents’ homestead and later on two other farms southwest of this village. Always active and delighted in his chosen work, he felt about three years ago that a hidden ailment slowly began to sap his strength. Deaconess Hospital

In the hope of regaining his former strength, he on Sept. 29th of this year, consented to an operation in the Evangelical and Reformed Deaconess Hospital at Chicago. Seemingly improved, he returned home on Oct. 21st. Realizing the seriousness of his trouble, however, he again returned to the hospital on Nov. 26th. Fully convinced there was no longer earthly help he, only after a few days returned home and patiently awaited the end of his earthly pilgrimage, which came peacefully, last Friday, Dec. 19th, at 10:30 a.m., at the age of 42 years, 4 months and 21 days.

He leaves to mourn his early departure, his wife: his mother, the following sisters and brother: Alvina, Mrs. Carl Clausing; Ida, Mrs. Ernest Hannover; William; Sophia, Mrs. William Buhr; all of Beecher; Tillie, Mrs. Otto Jaeger of Detroit; Linda, Mrs. Martin Oldenburg of Beecher; three sisters-in-law; five brothers-in-law; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted, Monday, Dec. 22, beginning at 1:30 and continued at St. Luke’s Church, where Rev. G. Horst spoke words of comfort to a large gathering of relatives and friends. Two duets by Mrs. Irvin Albers and Mrs. Harry Fick deepened the impression of the service. A number of beautiful floral pieces attested to the esteem in which the departed was held. He was placed to rest in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The departed, at heart a true loving husband, son, brother and friend, trained in the way of the children of God and through long suffering prepared for the better life, may well have prayed and confessed with David of old. “He weakened my strength in the way; he shortened my days. I said O my God, take me not away in the midst of my days.” Yet having shared with us the blessed knowledge and opportunity of salvation through faith in Christ Jesus, we may well hope and trust that he also belongs to those names that are written in heaven.


Help PleaseNote: You may notice that Eddie’s name is spelled with an “a” in Matthias and his parents’ names are both spelled with an “e” in Matthies. I have found in my research the spelling changes on different documents. I do not know which is correct, nor if there was an error made on their headstones. If you can help confirm the correct spelling, please let us know.


Edward’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Mother & Father: Emma (Huenerberg) Matthies & William Matthies
In-laws: Louis Pralle & Minnie (Mausehund) Pralle
Wife’s Paternal Grandmother: Wilhelmina (Stadtmann) Pralle

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening,

GEORGE KAPPE

GEORGE KAPPE

Age: 67 years, 11 months, 26 days

GEORGE KAPPE

DOB: March 1, 1873
near Beecher, IL USA

DOD: February 27, 1941
at home, Kappe homestead, SE of Beecher, IL USA

Son of Henry and Ellen (nee Beseke) Kappe

Brother to: Conrad E. (Amanda Mueller), Emma (Herman O. Matthias) Kappe

Husband of Minna Kappe, nee Ristenpart, married March 15, 1899
Father to: Regina (Dr. Henry C Krueger), Henry C. (Ella Fiene), Harriet E (Russell Piper) and Erna Kappe


July 31, 1930  – Beecher Herald

KAPPE FARM SCENE OF DISASTEROUS FIRE

George Kappe - Fire 7-1930Early Saturday morning, the Beecher Volunteer Fire Department responded to a call from the farm home of George Kappe, just south of town, when the large barn, tool shed and corn crib were ablaze. The fire had gained such headway before it was discovered, that none of the three buildings could be saved, so efforts were turned towards protecting those remaining. How the fire originated remains unknown, although it is thought that is was caused by spontaneous combustion in the hay, due to the excessive heat the preceding days.

The Kappe family were not aware of the fire until aroused by two men who were driving past in a truck. Noticing that there was no one about the blaze, they turned in the alarm.

The Kappe entails a heavy loss besides the buildings destroyed. About 30 tons of hay, 800 bushels of corn, 2 horses and some farm machinery were also burned. A tractor and an automobile were saved. We understand the loss is partially covered by insurance.


March 6, 1941  – Beecher Herald

RITES FOR PROMINENT FARMER HELD HERE

George Kappe Obit 1George Kappe, a well known and respected citizen of this community, passed away, Thursday morning Feb. 27, at 12:05 o’clock at the Kappe homestead, southeast of the Village.

Mr. Kappe was the son of Henry and Ellen Kappe, nee Beseke, and was born March 1, 1872, near Beecher. He was taken into the family of the children of God through Holy Baptism in St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church, northeast of Beecher, and was later, following a course of thorough religious instruction, confirmed, April 18, 1886, in St. John’s Ev. and Ref. Church, southeast of this village by the late Rev. G. Koch. On March 15, 1899, he was, in the same church and by the same Pastor, united in holy wedlock with miss Minna Ristenpart, which happy union was blessed with four children, of whom one, Erna preceded the father in death, at the age of six days. The surviving children, who with the wife and mother mourn the loss of a true loving husband and father are: Regina, Mrs. Henry Krueger, Clear Lake, Iowa; Henry, Beecher; Harriet, Mrs. Russell Piper, Beecher.

Geoege Kappe obit 2Immediately after marriage, the young couple engaged in farming on the present home site, where their combined labors were signally blessed by God throughout the years. In late years, however, especially during the last two years, there came a fore-warning of abating strength. Still fresh and strong in mind and delighting in work, he sought medical help in the hope of regaining his former robust health. When little or no improvement was felt, he on Feb. 6, upon advice of his doctor, submitted to an operation for double hernia in St. James Hospital. Apparently on the road to recovery and happy to be home again, it soon became evident that all was not well as hoped and prayed for. Although the best of medical attention and untiring loving care was given him, his life slowly ebbed away into peaceful death on the above mentioned date, at the age of 68 years, 11 months and 26 days.

Those who are deeply saddened by his passing are his wife, his children, already mentioned, one daughter-in-law, two sons-in-law, five grandchildren, Warren and Robert Krueger, Geraldine and Carolin Kappe, and Carol Piper; one sister, Mrs. Herman Matthias, Crete; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted, Sunday, March 2, beginning at 1:30 p.m., at the residence, and continued at 2:00 o’clock at St. Luke’s Church, where his Pastor, the Rev. G Horst, spoke in both the German and English languages to a large overflowing attendance of relatives and friends. A quartet of ladies of St. Luke’s Senior Choir rendered three appropriate songs. Many beautiful floral pieces artistically designed, gave ample expression of the esteem in which the departed was held by those who knew him best. He was laid to rest in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The departed, a true loving husband and father, always faithfully labored and abundantly provided for his loved ones. As a Christian, he always realized his shortcomings and dependence upon divine grace and could be accounted a true Israelite in whom there was no guile. His uprightness, honesty, fairness and willingness to help and serve wherever help and service was needed, was everywhere recognized and acknowledged. Because of these characteristics he, for more than fifteen years, was a trusted and respected director and president of the Farmers Grain Co. in Beecher. Sharing with all Christians and blessed knowledge of salvation in Christ Jesus, may he now happily realize his Master’s gracious promise: “Because I live, ye shall live also.”


George’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Wife: Minna (Ristenpart) Kappe
Grandfather: Charles W. Beseke
Wife’s Brother & Sister-in-law: William Ristenpart & Hermine (Danne) Ristenpart
Wife’s Sister & Brother-in-law: Emma (Ristenpart) Fiene & Henry Fiene
Uncle & Aunt: Charles Beseke & Margreta (Tobeck) Beseke
Uncle: Conrad E. Beseke
Aunt & Uncle: Caroline (Beseke) Kirchhoff & Louis Kirchhoff
Cousin: Harry W. Kirchhoff
Cousins: Frieda (Beseke) Riley McCarthy & John J. Riley

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Pralle, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening,

 

EMIL KOCH

Emil Koch

Age: 82 years, 10 months, 19 days

EMIL KOCH

DOB: May 10, 1857
Saxe Weimar, Germany

DOD: March 29, 1940
at home, Beecher, IL USA

Son of Gottlieb (Gilbert) & Wilhelmine (Putterson) Koch

Brother to: Edmond (Barbara M. Hoffman), Albert (Mathilda Lau) Koch

Husband of Louise Fick, married July 12, 1883, St. John’s UCC, Beecher, IL.
Father to: William G. (Louisa Bodenvias), Emil Jr. (Louise Hussman), Henry (Erna Schweer) Koch


Beecher Prospectus – 1905

EMIL KOCH

Proprietor of a Handsome New Hardware Store

Emil Koch - Beecher Prospectus 1Among the new buildings in  Beecher, none will be more appreciated by the trading public than the hardware store erected by Emil Koch, Beecher’s well known contractor. Mr. Koch saw an opening for another hardware store in the village and the establishment is being specially built for the conducting of a modern hardware business on a larger scale. It has a 27-foot front, with handsome plate windows, is 66 feet deep and 26 feet in height. It has a pressed brick front and of brick throughout, with a handsome metal ceiling and felt roofing. The second story will be used as a dwelling and fitted in modern style. A carbine light plant has been installed.

Emil Koch - Beecher Prospectus 2Mr. Koch will put in a very large and expensive stock of heavy and shelf hardware, oils and paints, The new store will be an acquisition to the town and will attract its share of the trade. Mr. Koch needs no introduction to the Beecher public, for he has been in the public eye for 32 years, and is the oldest carpenter contractor in town. He was born in Germany, and came to the United States with his parents when an infant, the family first settling in Lake County, Indiana. When a boy he moved to Beecher. He has built many of the buildings of the village. Mr. Koch is a trustee of the St. Lucas Church. Success is sure to be his, as the people all know they will receive liberal treatment at his hands.


April 1, 1910  – Beecher Herald

CHILDREN START DANGEROUS FIRE

Touch Matches to Dead Grass in Rear of Emil Koch’s store

Three Kerosene Barrels of Oil Catch Afire and Make Things Lively

Emil Koch - Fire 1910While townspeople were at church, Friday morning, two young boys set fire to the dead grass in the alley in the rear of Emil Koch’s hardware store, while playing with matches. The alarm was sounded and people rushed to the scene. The flames had extended to three kerosene barrels and it was with much hard and desperate fighting that the fire was extinguished.

It was just in niche of time that the blaze was subdued, as the oil barrels had just burned through and the kerosene was oozing out. There is no telling what would have happened had it burned a few minutes longer.

Parents should be more careful in leaving matches in reach of small children, and at least in his instance, the incident of Friday has been a warning to one family.


July 20, 1933  – Beecher Herald

KOCHS, SR., OBSERVE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

Koch Anniversery 1933On last Wednesday, July 12, a well-planned successful surprise was tendered Mr. and Mrs. Emil Koch, Sr., highly esteemed couple of this community. The children, gratefully mindful of possessing heaven’s gift in their parents, lovingly planned and arranged to link this memorable day with the unforgotten day of 50 years ago.

Desiring to make it a surprise, about 85 immediate relatives and friends gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kirchhoff at 2:30 p.m., Mrs. Kirchhoff being an only sister of Mrs. Koch – and from there marched over to the home of the unsuspecting and fully unprepared couple.

Following the happy expressions of greetings and congratulations, all motored to the Community Hall, where later, in the basement, beautifully decorated for the occasion, a tasty luncheon was served to the happy celebrants. Rev. G. Horst, serving as toast-master, first read numerous congratulatory cards which during the day had been spirited away from the post office, and then called on various relatives and friends for a word of greeting and felicitation, all responding readily in giving due honor to the worthy groom and bride in their midst. Following an address by the Rev. G. Horst who, basing his words on Isaiah 45, V.4 brought out the loving kindness shown the aged couple throughout the years of their married life, a fine basket containing a beautiful bouquet of yellow tea roses, as a combined gift of the St. Lucas Ladies Aid and Sewing Circle, in both of which organizations Mrs. Koch holds active membership, was presented to the couple by the respective secretaries of said organizations. Rev. J.H. Koenig, father of Mrs. Horst, in well chosen words concluded the happy hour at the festive board.

Since everyone loves a bride and tolerates a groom, an additional surprise was tendered the couple later in the day by the appearance of the so-called “Hungry Five” a misnomer, unless it means musical hunger for more opportunities to display their extraordinary talents, who together with their leader, R. Wegert, rendered pleasing and suitable selections. With the lengthening shadows of evening enfolding the day the invited guests bid farewell to the honored couple in wishing them many happy returns of the day.


April 4, 1940  – Beecher Herald

RETIRED BUSINESS MAN DIES SUDDENLY

Emil Koch obit 1Death closed the career of one of Beecher’s oldest and most distinguished business men, last Friday morning, when Emil Koch Sr., died suddenly at 8 a.m., of a heart attack. News of the passing of Mr. Koch was a distinct shock to the community.

Funeral services were conducted, Sunday afternoon at the residence and at St. Luke’s Church with Rev. G. Horst officiating. Interment was in the Mausoleum.

The deceased started his career in Beecher as a carpenter of extraordinary ability. In 1905 he established the hardware store on Gould Street, known as Koch’s Hardware, which he operated successfully until about two years ago, when old age and ill health forced his retirement. He attained the ripe age of eighty-two years.

Obituary

The deceased, Emil Koch Sr., was born May 10, 1857, at Saxe Weimar, Germany. The child of Christian parents he was soon after birth, baptized and thus enrolled in the family of the children of God. When two years old his parents immigrated to American and located at Marville, between Hammond and Crown Point, Indiana. Here in addition to a fine home training, the departed was further blessed in receiving a thorough religious education in preparation for his confirmation. On July 12, 1883, he was married to Miss Louise Fick, the ceremony taking place in St. John’s Evangelical and Reformed Church with Rev. G Koch officiating. This happy union was blessed with three sons, of whom William, preceded the father in death, September 16, 1935. The surviving sons, who together with the mother, deeply mourn the passing of a true loving husband and father are: Emil, Beecher, and Henry, Chicago Heights. Immediately after their marriage the young couple made their home in Beecher. Here in Beecher and surrounding territory the departed soon became known as one of the outstanding carpenters, plying this trade for twenty-two years.

Emil Koch obit 2He, in 1905 established and successfully operated the so-called, Koch’s Hardware store on Gould Street.

In 1933 the grateful children secretly so planned it that time was taken out in their busy life for the celebration of their Golden Wedding Anniversary, an event that filled their hearts with deep lasting happiness. Beginning to ail more and more due to a heart condition, the departed, two years ago, retired from active work. Although enjoying the quiet and peace of his home, this enjoyment was interspersed with short and longer periods of intense suffering. However, following a life’s habit, he never murmured or complained at such times, but carried his cross in Christian faith and hope. Fully realizing that the days of his earthly sojourn were numbered, his sudden death, Friday, March 29, at 8 a.m., nevertheless came as a distinct shock to his loved ones and the whole community. His age, reached beyond the Biblical span of years, was 82 years, 8 months and 16 days.

He leaves to mourn, his wife, the two sons already mentioned, two daughters-in-law, three grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted Sunday, March 1, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the home and continued at 1:45 o’clock at St. Luke’s Church where his pastor, Rev. G. Horst, preached in both the English and German languages to a very large assemblage of relatives and friends. The ladies of the St. Luke’s choir rendered three appropriate songs. Many beautiful floral pieces attested to the high esteem in which Emil Koch, Sr., has always been held by all who ever came in contact with him. Interment was made in the Mausoleum.

The departed, one of the most distinguished and honored citizens of Beecher, was always a true, kind and loving husband and father, who found his greatest happiness at home with his loved ones. As a former member of the Evangelical and Reformed St. John’s Church and as a charter member of the Evangelical and Reformed St. Luke’s Church he ever showed his interest and loyalty in the up-building of God’s kingdom. The work of God and regular church attendance were blessed necessities in his life.

As a memento of his interest in his church he made and presented the Altar, still in use in St. Luke’s Church. Deeply anchored in spiritual things, richly blessed with many fine characteristics, his life a garden wherein the fruits of faith, hope and love aboundeth, his memory may well be cherished by his loved ones and friends alike.

(Editor’s note: the alter can still be seen today at St. Luke’s Church)


September 9, 1954 – Beecher Herald

AWARD PRESENTED TO KOCH’S HARDWARE STORE

Koch Harware award 1954Koch’s Hardware has recently received an award of merit from The Lennox Furnace Company. The award is in the form of a handsomely encased bronzed plaque. It was presented to Koch’s Hardware in recognition of having met the exacting requirements and qualifications to install and service Lennox indoor comfort systems.

Koch Hardware store ad 1953Gilbert Koch of the local heating and air conditioning firm accepted the plaque from Lee Tewanger of the Lennox Furnace Company, which is the largest concern of its kind in the world.

In making the presentation, Mr. Tewanger said, “We have always been pleased with our association with Koch’s Hardware. During the 10 years they have handled Lennox products, they have demonstrated their ability to create true indoor comfort through proper heating and cooling methods. We congratulate Koch’s Hardware upon winning this award. We know their conscientious service will continue to win friends for them and for Lennox.

Koch Hardware store ad 1954Koch’s Hardware has been in business in Beecher for the past 49 years. Presently it is located at Gould St.

(Editors note: Gilbert Koch is the grandson of Emil Koch, Sr.  Gilbert took over ownership of the hardware store after his father, Emil Koch Jr., in 1958)

The tradition that Emil Koch started carried on for many years.

 

 


Emil’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Wife: Louise (Fick) Koch

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Pralle, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening,

 

 

 

FRED HEINE

FRED HEINE

Age: 77 years, 7 months, 19 days

Henry Frederick Heine              “FRED HEINE”

DOB: February 16, 1862
Washington Township, IL USA

DOD: October 5, 1939
St. James Hospital
Chicago Heights, IL USA

Son of Frederick and Charlotte (nee Meyer) Heine

Brother to: Ernst, Mary (Fred Ackerman) and Sophie (Fred Dorfmueller)

Fred’s father, Frederick Heine, died in May,1866.   Fred’s mother then married Heinrich Niedert on October 18, 1866.  Five children were born to this marriage:

Half brother to: Henry F. (Mary Quade), Caroline, William H. (Mary Louise Voltmer) Charles “CARL (Caroline Susehihl),  Herman W. (Metha “Mattie” Von Engel) Niedert


AGED RESIDENT DIES FOLLOWING STROKE

Fred Heine obit 1The departed, Henry Frederick Heine, son of Frederick Heine and his wife, Charlotte Meyer, both deceased, was born, February 16, 1862, in Washington Township. The child of christian parents, he was soon after birth, baptized in St. John’s Lutheran Church at Eagle Lake, and later, March 25, 1877, following a course in religious instruction, confirmed by the Rev. E Keuchen in St. John’s Evangelical and Reformed Church, east of Beecher.

Born and raised on a farm, he chose farming as his occupation, staying with his parents until the death of his father and step-father, when together with his mother, he made Beecher his home. Lovingly taking care of his mother in her declining years he, after her death, March 10, 1925, continued a more or less retired life in his acquired home, east of the Dixie Highway. It was his sad lot in life to mourn not only the passing of his parents, but also the departure of his brother, Ernst and his sisters, Mary, Mrs Fred Ackerman, Wells, MN., and Sophie, Mrs Fred Dorfmueller, Steger, IL.

Always blessed with good health until five years ago, when he began to fail in a general way, it was not unexpected when, Sept. 19th, a stroke of apoplexy brought him to death’s door. Although receiving the best medical attention and being tenderly nursed by friends and his sister-in-law, Mrs. Henry Neidert, it was deemed advisable to take him to the St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights, where also for about two weeks everything possible was done to make him comfortable until he peacefully came to the end of his early days, Thursday, Oct. 5, at the age of 77 years, 7 months and 19 days.

Fred Heine obit 2Those who mourn his departure are his half brothers, Henry Neidert, Beecher; Charles Neidert, Grant Park; William Niedert, Lowell, IN; Herman Neidert, Steger; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted, Sunday, Oct. 8, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Hack Funeral Home and continued at St. Luke’s Church where Rev. G. Horst spoke fittingly to the assembled mourners and friends. Five lady members of the St. Luke’s choir rendered two appropriate songs. He was laid to rest in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The deceased, ever a true loving son and child of God and loyal follower of his Lord and Master, not only holding active membership in St. Luke’s Church, but also doing his share in furthering the Kingdom work at large. Leading a quiet peaceful life and a man of few words he was nevertheless, by those who knew him, highly respected because of his fine character and many noteworthy qualities. Quoting scripture it may be said of him: “Behold a true Israelite in whom there was no guile.”


Fred’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Mother: Charlotte (Meyer) Heine Niedert

Father & Mother-in-law of half brother, Herman E. Niedert, whose wife was “Metha MATTIE Von Engeln, daughter of: Herman Von Engeln & Louise (Thuernau) Von Engeln

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking, Fenske, Fick, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Pralle, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Vagt, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Wilkening,

 

CARL VAGT

Caril Vagt

Age: 86 years, 10 months, 13 days

CARL VAGT

DOB: July 15, 1850
Mecklenburg, Germany

DOD: May 28, 1937
at home, Beecher, IL USA

Son of Johann and Sophie (Moll)Vagt

Brother to: Marie, Johann, Friedrich and Theodore Vagt – unconfirmed

Husband of Maria Unruh Vagt, married in 1884 in Germany in the same church where they were both baptized and confirmed.

Immigrated to America in 1884.


June 3, 1937 – Beecher Herald

FUNERAL OF CARL VAGT HELD, SUNDAY

Carl Vagt obit 1The deceased, Carl Henry Theodore Vagt, was born July 15, 1850, at Camin, Province, Doberan, Mechlenburg-Schwerin, Germany. Being the child of Christian parents, he was soon after birth baptized and later educated and trained in the great fundamentals of the Christian religion, so that in the hour of his confirmation he gladly and willingly promised allegiance and loyalty to his Lord and Master.

Having given two years of his young manhood to military training, he sought and found employment as coachman with a titled landowner, who soon learned to esteem him highly because of his faithful loyal service. In the year 1884, he was married to Miss Mary Unruh, the ceremony being preformed in the same church in which both had been baptized and confirmed. Realizing that their homeland had little to offer for the future they, soon after their marriage immigrated to this country. After acquainting himself with the American ways of farming at Sollitt, then east of Beecher and later at Brunswick, Indiana, the young couple, about fifty years ago, made their home on a farm near Eagle Lake. Not blessed with any children, they both applied themselves diligently to their chosen work which was signally blessed by God.

Carl Vagt obit 2After eighteen years of successful farming, they made their home in Goodenow for a period of three years, after which they definitely located here in Beecher. On March 10, 1932, death summoned Mrs. Vagt to her eternal rest. Since that time the departed tried pitifully to carry on alone, but the burden of many years making itself felt, he happily accepted the gracious offer of Mr. and Mrs. August Krueger to move in with him and take care of him. This arrangement proved a veritable blessing to the departed, a blessing which he deeply appreciated and which flooded his declining years with the peace and quiet of a beautiful sunset. Being relieved of all cares and worries and surrounded by loving attention and care, he enjoyed life as never before and no doubt desired to have it continued. However, a week ago, those who were so tenderly taking care of him and the doctor attending him knew the his earthly pilgrimage was fast coming to an end. This end, which he himself realized was near and for which he prepared himself, came peacefully, Friday, May 28, at 7:30 a.m. at the ripe age of 86 years, 10 months and 13 days.

He is survived in this country by one nephew, Fred Vagt, of Grant Park; two nieces, Rose, Mrs. Albert Kurth, and Mary, Mrs. Fred Eckhoff, of Grant Park; besides one nephew and two nieces in Germany; also a number of friends here and abroad.

Funeral services took place, Sunday, May 30, beginning at 2 o’clock at the home, and at 2:15 at St. Luke’s Church, where his pastor, Rev. G Horst, spoke fittingly in both there German and English languages. His body was laid to rest in the Beecher Mausoleum.

The departed, known for may years in this community, lived a more or less detached life, especially in his declining years. His life nevertheless, was ever one above reproach as he proved himself at all times honest, upright and ever ready to uphold his deep interest in the church and its work.

he also showed his interest in the church by carrying himself with a desire of presenting a new bell to St. Luke’s Church, where he worshipped during the last twelve years. Living ever true to the inner light of his religious understanding and training he, no doubt, entered into the rest and peace promised those who are true to their faith.

 

 


Carl’s family members also resting in the mausoleum are:

Wife: Maria (Unruh) Vagt

Although not family, but I’m sure Carl would consider them so:

Care Givers: August Krueger & Anna L. Krueger

Other, more distant family include: Bahlman, Batterman, Bergmeier, Beseke, Bielfeldt, Bohl, Cloidt, Dunlap, Engleking,  Fenske, Fick, Fiene, Freerking, Frobose, Graham, Guritz, Hack, Hager, Haltenhof , Heine, Heldt, Hildeman, Hinze, Hoffman, Hoppensteadt, Horn, Hunte, Kaczynski, Kappe, Kilborn,  Kirchhoff,  Klocksieben, Koch, Langreder, Leder, Maass, Matthias, Mc Carty, Meyer, Monk, Niedert, Ohlendorf, Pansa, Peters, Pralle, Riley, Ristenpart, Rohe, Rust, Saller, Selk, Struve, Thielman, Von Engeln, Wegert, Wehmhoefer, Wiechen, Westphal, Wilkening,