John S. Heebner and Susanna Kriebel [21-29]

[21-29] JOHN S. HEEBNER, b Mar. 2, 1822; d Aug. 3, 1903; s Henry and Anna (Schultz) Heebner [21-7]; m Sept. 22, 1846, SUSANNA KRIEBEL, b June 28, 1826; d Jan. 27, 1899; dau Samuel and Sarah (Kriebel) Kriebel [25-18].

Children (7):

In his day John S. Heebner had the reputation of being the most sociable of the members of the Schwenkfelder Society and his children have in a large measure inherited this trait. He always had a good word for everyone with whom he came in contact. Mr. Heebner owned and lived on the farm in Upper Gwynedd Twp., Pa., now (1920) owned by his son William K. Heebner, and always kept it in a high state of cultivation.

Being a very earnest and zealous man, Mr. Heebner served his denomination in various capacities, serving as trustee for many years, and as superintendent of the Towamencin Schwenkfelder Sunday School. His judgment was always consulted in matters of moment both in the church and in secular matters. Having accumulated a good deal of property by his industry and frugality, Mr. Heebner made large contributions for Church and allied work. When Perkiomen Seminary was bought, by the Schwenkfelders, Mr. Heebner was selected as a trustee and served in this capacity up to the time of his death. When funds were solicited to pay off indebtedness on the Philadelphia Church, Mr. Heebner said: “If the erection of this church will be the means of saving one soul, it will have been worth while,” and he assumed the entire indebtedness himself.

He also made a generous contribution for the construction of the present Towamencin Schwenkfelder Church, so that when this edifice was dedicated, it was not only free from debt, but the building committee had a balance in the treasury.

Mr. Heebner abhorred debts on chureh property. He frequently stated that the Schwenkfelder Method was to keep out of debt, as this was the advice handed down from the forefathers.

Possessed of such sterling integrity, Mr. Heebner was solicited to serve as a director in various financial institutions, which positions he filled with great credit, and his advice and judgment were of great benefit to the organizations. He also served his township as school director.