Woman who taught Gov. Tod to speak German Dies at 93

Mrs. David Weimer was Mother of Council President

Mrs. David Weimer, aged 93, who taught the late Gov. David Tod to speak German while he taught her to speak English, died suddenly at her home, 114 Byron St., at 2:30 p. m. Thursday of complications of old age. She was conscious until 10 minutes before she died. Mrs. Weimer was the mother of Council President Fred G. Weimer. Mrs. Weimer was extremely active for her age and her hearing was especially good. She was one of the oldest German women in the vicinity. Born in Stuttgart, Germany, April 23, 1845, she was the former Fredericka Gluck, a daughter of Christian and Caroline Frank Gluck. She came to Youngstown directly from Germany when 20 years old - unable to speak a word of English. She decided the only logical work would be as a servant girl. When she started work, the Tods came for her in their carriage. At that time, it was customary for the servant girl to sit in front with the driver, which Mrs. Weimer started to do but Gov. Tod objected, saying: "No, no, Fredericka, climb in with us. From now on you are one of the family." He knew no German and since she did not know English it was necessary for him to give her instructions through another servant, -- but not for long. He was anxious to learn German as she was to learn English so they studied together for a half hour each day. So highly did she esteem him that she used to argue that streets and veteran's posts were not enough to name for him. Later, when she married David Weimer, an iron worker and coal miner, the went to live in a log cabin on Calvin St. Mr. Weimer walked to and from Vienna where he worked, and even walked to Warren for groceries from the company store. Always active in church work, Mrs. Weimer was a charter member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church but joined Martin Luther on the South Side 28 years ago. She also was active in the Ladies Aid. Her husband died 28 years ago last June. Mrs. Weimer also leaves four other children, Mrs. Emma Friebertshauser of Wheeling, W. Va., Mrs. Herman Hesselman with whom she lived, John Weimer here, and Mrs. Edward Keich of Youngstown; 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday at Martin Luther Church. The family will meet friends Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon and evening. The body will be taken to the church Monday morning to lie in state from noon until 1:30 p.m.

Date and place of death: Oct. 21, 1938 - Youngstown, Ohio

Source: Youngstown Vindicator - October 21,1938

Submitted by Catherine Timlin-Hebb

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