The Herald of Truth , Vol. XXXVI, No. 8, April 15, 1899 - pages 124-126

BONTRAGER. - John Bontrager was born Nov. 3, 1814; died in Champaign Co., Ohio, March 9, 1899, aged 84 years, 4 months and 6 days. Dec. 13, 1835 he was married to Anna Summers. To this union were born 11 children, of whom 9 survive. There were also 52 grandchildren, 43 living; and 53 great-grandchildren, 46 living. He was a consistent member of the Amish Mennonite Church for about 65 years. His companion preceded him to eternity two years and eight months less one day. He was blessed with a remarkable memory and had committed a large portion of the Bible to memory. He was also well read in the Martyrs' Mirror and the works of Menno Simons and Dietrich Phillip. He could also repeat a number of hymns. All of these treasures of the memory were a great comfort to him in his affliction. He was always a strong advocate of peace, and was greatly opposed to divisions in the church, and when difficulties arose he was ever ready to help restore peace. He was a friend to the poor and needy and helped wherever he could. We believe he met his God In peace. During his sickness, which was of about four weeks duration, he bore his sufferings with the fortitude of a Christian martyr, with implicit faith in his Lord and Savior. We shall greatly miss those kind words of comfort which only a loving father can give, and the family feel grateful to those who aided us with their comfort and help in our time of trouble. May God bless them all. The services on the 11th were conducted by Jonathan Warye at the house, from Psa. 34, and at the South Union M. H. by C. K. Yoder in German and Abednego Miller in English from Rev. 14:13. Burial in the South Union cemetery.