Rev. Jacob Baer Bower

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/38797810/jacob-bower

Bishop Jake not only preached in the new church, but also acted as the janitor, keeping the place tidy and warm.

It was the Lord's house, he often said, and he was a servant of the Lord.  It is easy to see why this Godly man was loved and respected by all the members of his congregation.  He died in 1867, at the age of 65; Catherine lived until the year 1879.  They are both buried in the Old Mennonite Cemetery west of Patricksburg which Jake himself laid out.  His epitaph reads: Weep not for me, I am at rest. My soul is with my Savior blest I am from pain and sorrow free, prepare to meet you God with me.

His children were:

Henry 1839-1913 Marr. to Elizabeth Keterling

Leah 1841-1921 Marr.John Kauble

Jacob 1842-1843 Child

Sarah 1844-1915 Marr. Samuel Oberholtzer

Levi 1846-1860 unmarried

Eli 1848-1919 Marr. Sarah Hostetler