Arnold Giesbrecht

Arnold Willis Giesbrecht was the second child of George and Marie Voth Giesbrecht. Born November 4, 1931 on the family farm near Montezuma, Kansas, he grew up there and was educated at Montezuma Grade School. He died peacefully at Oakwood Manor, January10, 2023, as the day was dawning.

He was converted in his youth and baptized May 13, 1947 at Montezuma Mennonite Church by Harry Wenger. He encountered some tests and especially financial disappointments in life but the faith was always precious to him. He married our mother, Ormah Unruh, on August 26, 1951, and they enjoyed married life for over seventy-one years. Most of their years together were spent in Mississippi and Arkansas. They lived their last years at Oakwood Manor. Their care exceeded the call of duty. They appreciated this loving care and we even more. Dad enjoyed farming and especially his cattle enterprise. He had a reputation for understanding mechanical operations and helped innumerable people with repairs and especially troubleshooting and diagnostics. He did not object to being called to the telephone during a meal to advise someone on a repair. For several years he operated a repair shop with his brother William. He was also a skillful electrician. Dad had a cheerful disposition. Many have commented on his ever-present smile. He was not hesitant to ask for forgiveness when he perceived the need, nor to grant forgiveness when requested.

Survivors include his wife, Ormah, Oakwood Manor; his children: Marlene and Eldon Wedel, Brooksville, Mississippi; Lawrence and Beverly, Leland, Mississippi; and Dana and Pamela, Dumas, Arkansas; thirteen grandchildren and thirty-two great grandchildren; three sisters, three brothers, and a brother-in-law.

He was predeceased by his parents, parents-in-law, eight brothers, three sisters, ten brothers- in-law, seven sisters-in-law, and two great grandchildren.

The family acknowledges a debt of gratitude to the many who have contributed to the care of our father. This includes the entire staff at Oakwood for their professional yet loving and personal care during our parent's sixteen year stay there. This includes the Brooksville congregation for providing them a spiritual home; food committee, staff and individuals for reaching out to us in our needs and giving support and help generously. We believe God will bless all of you.

A funeral service is planned for Friday, January 13, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. at Brooksville Mennonite Church in Brooksville, MS.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be a the church Thursday, January 12, 2023 from 6-8 p.m. Cockrell Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.