Heinsohn Family Gathers for Reunion
The descendants of Diedrich and Anna Marie Roderfeld Heinsohn gathered for their family reunion on Sunday, July 19. The event brought together 56 family members at the VFW Hall in La Grange to celebrate their shared heritage. Attendees enjoyed a delicious fried chicken lunch catered by Oakridge Smokehouse of Schulenburg followed by many homemade scrumptious desserts.
Frank Cernosek opened the meeting with prayer and reminded the families about “reunions” being commanded in the Bible, Deut. 32:7, “Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations; ask your father and he will show you; ask the older folks and they will tell you.” It’s a command, not just a suggestion. The young generation is instructed to ask and seek out the previous generation and receive the aged wisdom only available through those experiencing life as it was in years past.
A highlight of the gathering was an enlightening presentation by family historian Rox Ann Johnson. She shared a slideshow with many pictures about the early Heinsohn ancestors, offering a preview of the upcoming Heinsohn family history book she is currently writing.
Special rewards were also presented during the festivities. Marlene Halamicek and Frank Cernosek took home honors as the oldest woman and oldest man in attendance. The youngest generation was represented by Henry Kennedy, named youngest boy, and Lyric Ahrens, named youngest girl. Delbert and Dolores Luedke were recognized as the longest married couple, while Ben and Jen Ahrens were honored as the most recently married. Chuck and Linda Cassidy traveled the furthest distance to attend this year’s festivities. Split the Pot raffle was won by Dolores Luedke.
The meeting was concluded by the drawing of the door prize, a unique Heinsohn Log Cabin Centerpiece, created and donated by Wanda Heinsohn Cernosek, which was won by Janice Smajstrla.
It was a most enjoyable reunion spending time in fellowship, reviewing family history and making plans to continue the tradition next year.