April 24, 2024

Dorothy (Yost) Jantz

Dorothy (Yost) Jantz was born to John and Lena (Smith) Yost on July 7, 1932 at the family home in Gray County and silently slipped away during the night of March 20th, 2015, reaching the age of 82. 

Dorothy spent her childhood on the family farm and received her education at the South Salem Country School and Colusa School. She had a happy childhood despite the depression years, always having food to eat and plenty of love to share. Dorothy and her family faced a difficult time in the loss of their mother at an early age. She was converted at the same time as her brother Wilbur and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite by Min. Ed Frank. Dorothy was married to our father, Jacob Jantz, on May 4, 1969 becoming the mother and grandmother to the Jantz Family. We remember happy times spent with our family together. Dorothy often expressed that the years spent with our Dad were the happiest of her life. Dad left us on January 2, 1991 leaving her very lonely. Another sad time of her life was when granddaughter, Lorinda was taken in a tragic accident. 

Mom, Dorothy’s, hands were always busy hands. Many a quilt or comforter top was pieced, untold number of tea towels were embroidered, and countless baby blankets were made. Painting, wood finishing and making donuts were other enjoyable parts of her busy life. Even in her retirement years at the Bethel Home, she could be found helping with Laundry. We will hold special the many cards, notes, letters, and small gifts that were given as a token of her love to us and her many friends. 

We are very thankful for the spiritual renewal in her life of the last several years. Bible reading, song services, and sermons were very special and more meaningful for her. It was her desire to be faithful and to make Heaven her home. 

Those left to cherish memories are children Gary and wife, Vernice of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; Jim and wife, Camilla of Montezuma; Karen and husband, Harley Friesen of Ingalls; and Max of Montezuma; Beatrice Jantz of Montezuma; brothers: Arlin and wife, Florence of Montezuma; Wilbur and wife, Dorothy of Montezuma; sisters: Orreda Yost of Livingston, California: Priscilla and husband, LeDon Harlow of Satanta: sisters-in-law: Jaletta of Macon, Mississippi; Wilda of Ulysses; Inez of Iroquois, South Dakota; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Preceding her in death was her husband, Jacob, her son, Richard, her granddaughter, Lorinda, her parents, one infant sister, and 3 brothers. 

A special thanks to the Bethel Home Health Care and Bethel Home Staff for the loving and tender care. You all were indeed her special friends. The family wishes to give special thanks for all the expressions of sympathy and kindness. 

Funeral service will be held at Montezuma Mennonite Church on Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow at Montezuma Mennonite Cemetery. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Montezuma on Monday, March 23, 2015 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to Bethel Home or Bethel Home Health Care in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.