Dea John A Saner

Saner.--John A., son of Andrew and Rebecca Saner, was born near Oakland Mills, Pa., May 11, 1885; died at his home near Van Wert, Pa., Mar. 31, 1927; aged 41 y. 9 m. 20 d. He was converted and united with the Mennonite Church in his boyhood years and was later united in marriage to Phoebe Wert of near East Salem, Pa. To this union were born five sons and three daughters, ranging in age from 2 to 17 years. He is survived by his wife and children, parents, and one brother (Harrison). The wife and children keenly feel the loss of a kind and loving husband and father. Bro. Saner was ordained to the office of deacon for the Lost Creek and Delaware congregations, in which capacity he served faithfully till death, serving about six years. His sickness was of short duration and death came as a shock to his physician (who predicted his early recovery) as well as the family and the community in which he lived and was held in high esteem. He had just recovered partially from a short but severe attack of pneumonia, when other complications set in causing heart failure. His last audible words were words of prayer and comfort for his companion and children, and a desire that the Lord's will be done. Funeral services at the home by Simon Graybill and Sam'l Leiter, and at the church by W. W. Graybill, assisted by the home ministers. Text, Rev. 22:12. A large concourse of sorrowing and sympathizing neighbors and friends attended the services at the Lost Creek Mennonite Church where the remains were laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Gospel Herald - Volume XX, Number 4 - April 28, 1927 page 94, 95

John Saner was called as an assistant to Deacon Samuel Weaver December 3, 1920, but it pleased God to call him early from his chosen field, at the age of 42 years, March 27, 1927. Funeral was held at Lost Creek. Source: "Mennonites of Lancaster Conference" by M.G. Weaver, 1931, page 257; leh.2011