trees in the middle of summer. This kept the fruit from growing and maturing. The
orchard was a great place for Emil’s children and their friends to play games like
tag or hide and go-seek. If a child ever needed a place to get away and enjoy some
peace and quiet, the orchard provided him a hiding place.
Emil Grotelueschen felt that in his lifetime he had experienced many
changes. He often liked to say that he had gone from “candle light to satellite!”
When tractors began appearing on farms, Emil, with his background of raising
horses and his love for them, said, “Now I’m finished,” and turned the farming over
to his sons.
With a family of nine children to raise there was never an abundance of
money. When one of the daughters expressed an interest in taking piano lessons,
Emil contracted with the principal of the parochial school, Mr. Buchholz, to give his
daughter music lessons in exchange for a load of hay for the teacher’s cow. This
contract was renewed for four years.
Gilbert, the third child born to Emil and Rosa, was stricken with sickness
shortly before he was confirmed. He spent the rest of his years (until his death at
age 47) in a wheel chair or in his bed. Pain was his constant companion. In spite of
the pain he proved to be a sterling example to his family and friends by never com-
plaining and by always wanting to be occupied and helpful. His busy correspon-
dence kept him in touch with many people. He had a healthy interest in his church,
community, and family. One of his doctors in Omaha said, “Don’t think we haven’t
noticed how he reads his Bible every day.” Gilbert would have to go to the hospital
at certain times during his illness. He was at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Min-
nesota, for seven months. A neighboring pastor, Rev. Kaiser, said, “When I really
have a ‘down’ day, I like to drive out and visit Gilbert.” Emil Grotelueschen’s family
experienced many wonderful blessings and helpful lessons from watching Gilbert.
As he lived with his illness and pain, he always rejoiced and praised God for His
goodness, serving Him in whatever way he could.
Emil was a social person who loved to visit with the neighbors, relatives, and
other people. He enjoyed teasing people and did not seem to worry much. Rosa
was the more serious type. She was very concerned about her children’s religious
and moral upbringing. She often quoted proverbs and Bible verses to support her
Gilbert
Grotelueschen
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