Mrs. Blanche BARNHIZER

“Blanche B. Hildebrand, daughter of Simon and Ann (Gantz) Hildebrand was born Dec 19, 1861, on a farm near Polo, Illinois. Here she grew to womanhood. On Dec 17, 1885, she was united in marriage with Charles M. Barnhizer. They established their home in the same community, living most of the time on the home farm of her parents. In 1911 they moved to LaVerne, Cal., where they built their home on Lincoln Ave. The husband and father passed away very suddenly May 23, 1923. This was a hard blow for her but with her characteristic courage she went bravely forward. For the past 8 years she had made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Lefever, at Compton, Cal., thoroughly enjoying herself in the quiet homelike atmosphere of this home. In January 1936 she was stricken with paralysis which left her helpless and though she recognized her family she was unable to talk to them. She was tenderly cared for in the hospital at Compton for six weeks and it was there she departed this life March 14, at the age of 74 years 2 months and 24 days.

She was the last of a family of nine children. She leaves three daughters, Mrs. Ira Butterbaugh, of LaVerne, Mrs. M. E. Garber of Pasadena, Mrs. D. Welty Lefever of Compton, and one son, Robert C. Barnhizer, of Pasadena, 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, who cherish the memory of a wonderful mother and grandmother, whose wise counsel and loving sympathy helped them over many of life’s rough places. She made many friends, who, too will cherish her memory. She was a member of the Church of the Brethren from young womanhood and was always a loyal supporter of the church and spent much time and energy in active church work. She lived a busy active life until 5 years ago when her health began to fail. She gave unreservedly of her time and strength in helping others in times of sickness or need of any kind and there are many who appreciate the help she has given them. Se always lent her support to any project for community betterment. She believed much in the power of prayer and prayer through a crisis in her own life and the lives of others. Hers was a life of trust in her Savior. She had a victorious conquering faith which triumphed over trials and discouragements and which lifted her to a high place of living and so often she helped lift others. Her life was an inspiration to many and she came to the end with her house set in order and ready to meet her Master. Funeral services were held Monday, March 16, at 10 a.m. from Todd and Reeves funeral parlors at Pomona with Rev. G. K. Walker officiating assisted by Dr. E. w. Studebaker. The 23rd Psalm, a favorite of the deceased was used in the service. A male quartet from LaVerne sang, “Saved by Grace,” and one member of it sang a baritone solo, “One Sweetly Solemn Thought,” Five grandsons, Merle, Myron, Wilbur, Donald, and Wayne Butterbaugh, and John Price acted as pallbearers. She was laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery at LaVerne, by the side of her husband. Many relatives and friends from various Southern California cities were present at the funeral services”

Contributed by Julie Bartimus (source unknown)

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