Lenora Knight Hafen

Washington County News - November 13, 1913

Santa Clara, November 9, - Again our little town is grief-striken by the sudden death of Mrs. Lenora Knight Hafen, wife of John Hafen, which occurred Friday, November 7, 1913.  While Mrs. Hafen had not been in perfect health for some time, having occasional fainting spells, she appeared to be in her usual state of health when last seen alive, which was previous to going out to sweep the back yard.  A few hours later she was found lying dead in the yard with the broom lying on top of her.  In the meantime those of her children who were at home supposed her to be visiting a relative or neighbor; the shock to them under the circumstances can well be imagined.  The cause of death was the bursting of a blood vessel in the head.  Members of the family were scatted at the time death called;  her husband being at Modena, one son, in Germany fulfilling a mission; her daughter, Jessie, and two twin boys being at home.  Another son Arthur K. was at Toquerville.  Her husband, four sons, and one daughter survive her, three children having preceded her to the great beyond.

Sister Hafen was born at Santa Clara, February 8, 1862, a daughter of Samuel and Caroline Beck Knight, and was married to John Hafen in the St. George Temple, February 9, 1887.  She was a true and devoted wife and mother, and a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the auxilliary organizations of which she was a willing worker.

Funeral services were held at the meeting house, Sunday, November 9, the house being beautifully decorated for the sad occasion.  The largest congregation that was ever in our meeting house, numbering 265 souls, came to pay their last respects to the dear departed.  Among these were Academy faculty, the Academy 4th year class, of which Miss Jess Hafen is vice-President, the Stake Relief Society officers, members of the 70's quorum, a number from Washington, Gunlock. Bunkerville and other places, which shows the esteem in which Sister Hafen was held.

The services were opened by Elder Joseph T. Atkin and closed by Elder George F. Whitehead.  The speakers were Elders Jacob Frei, H. H. Cannon, George W. Worthen, H. M. Woodward, Thomas P. Cottam and Edward R. Frei.  Their remarks were of a consoling nature to the bereaved, and they bore testimony to the high esteem in which the deceased and her family were held by all who knew them.  The Santa Clara choir furnished beautiful music, a quartet, "Nearer, My God, To Thee", being splendidly rendered.  Twenty-five vehicles and a number of people afoot followed the remains to their last resting place, and the grave was literally covered with bouquets of choice flowers.  The bereaved relatives sincerely appreciate the kindness of those who came from outside points to pay their last respects to the departed.