Ivan Homer Jantz

Ivan Homer Jantz, 85, passed away unexpectedly on January 26, 2016, in Montezuma. He was born July 6th, 1930, in Montezuma to Marcus and Adina Jantz. 

Ivan married “His Girl” Norma Dirks, January 14th, 1951 in Montezuma. They had recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. The ?rst years of their marriage were spent in Ingalls, before moving to Montezuma where they spent the rest of their days. Their home was blessed with two sons and two daughters. Ivan had a heart for others and shared that compassion in helping many people throughout his life. His grandchildren all meant so much to him and they each thought they were his favorite. He loved music and loved to sing. With his outgoing personality, he was also the local auctioneer. His ability to yodel is one of the many cherished memories his family holds. 

In childhood, Ivan received his education, along with his seven siblings, at Montezuma Grade School. During his early years, he worked on the family farm along with helping other area farmers. He was converted and baptized on November 12, 1944 at the age of 14 by Minister David J. Koehn, becoming a member of the Montezuma Mennonite Church; he remained faithful until the end and had a deep love for his church family. 

Ivan worked as a farmer/stockman and in 1972 became a Pioneer Seed dealer. He loved ?shing, hunting, and being with family and friends. He was always willing to give himself up for others. Ivan had the ability to connect with others in an unforgettable way; it did not matter whether you had a long-term, personal relationship with him or a momentary encounter; the effect was all the same. Ivan died the way he loved to live, surrounded by people. 

Those left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, Norma; his children: Burl Jantz, Char Koehn (Stan), Ron Jantz (Karen) and Carol Redger (Kevin) all of Montezuma; grandchildren: Aaron Koehn (Tam), Jennifer Overland (Brian), Larisa Smith (Jefferson), Kelly Clark (Steve), Kasey Phillips (James), John Ross Harmon (Tiffany), Rick Jantz (Heather), Kirk Redger (Ellen), Sean Jantz (Megan), and Clyde Redger (?ancé, Elizabeth); and sixteen great-grandchildren; three sisters: Ruby, Virginia, and Lilly; one brother Ervy; two sister-in-laws, one brother-in-law; nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, two brothers, and one sister. 

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 30th, 2016, at 10:30 AM at the Homeland Mennonite Church, Montezuma. Burial will follow at Homeland Mennonite Church Cemetery in Montezuma. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Home in Montezuma on Friday, January 29, 2016, from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to Homeland Mennonite Church in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.