Kleinsasser, Joseph (1869-1947)
Joseph Kleinsasser, affectionately known as “Kleinsser Vetter”, was a devoted leader and servant within the Hutterite community, whose life spanned nearly eight decades of faith and service. Born in Russia on November 10, 1869, he immigrated to the United States at the age of three, where he first lived in the Milltown Hutterite Colony in Yankton, South Dakota.
Joseph's journey in leadership began early; in September 1889, he was elected as a school teacher at 19 years old, a role he would hold for 17 years. His commitment to education was evident, and soon after, he married and began to establish a family. His influence in the community extended beyond teaching; on December 22, 1894, he was elected as a witness brother in the church, a significant milestone in his spiritual journey.
In 1901, Joseph was called to serve God’s Word, leading to his ordination the following year. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his extensive ministry. His dedication to spiritual service prompted him to resign from his teaching position in 1906, reflecting the depth of his commitment to his faith and his community.
In 1922, Joseph and his family relocated to the newly established Milltown colony in Bernard, Manitoba, where he dedicated the remainder of his life to serving the community. His leadership within the greater Hutterite Church was solidified on January 28, 1934, when he was elected elder of the Schmiedeleut communities. His tenure as an elder was marked by significant challenges, as Elder Joseph helped the Hutterite communities reestablish themselves in Manitoba. He also guided them through the tremendous difficulties brought about by World War II, when many young Hutterite men were required to leave home and serve their country as Conscientious Objectors. Joseph Kleinsasser held this role for 13 years until his passing, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service that continues to inspire generations.
Elder Joseph Kleinsasser passed away on April 16, 1947, at the age of 77 years, 5 months, and 6 days. His final sermon, “The Annunciation of Mary,” was delivered from the Gospel of Luke on April 12, just days before he fell asleep in the Lord. His legacy is marked by a deep faith and a life dedicated to the upliftment of those around him, as he entrusted his spirit to God's loving care with a peaceful heart.
Joseph’s family included his beloved wife, Elizabeth, whom he married early in his adult life, along with three sons—Joseph, Jacob, and Samuel—and six daughters—Elizabeth, Sarah, Katrina, Annie, Susanne, and Mary. Together, they were blessed with 72 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Elder Joseph Kleinsasser's wife, Elizabeth Kleinsasser was born on April 1, 1870, in Russia and immigrated to America at four. She dedicated 25 years of her life to serving in the community's kindergarten, a role she was elected to on March 15, 1914, and retired from on April 23, 1939. Elizabeth joined her husband in eternity on April 18, 1964, leaving a legacy intertwined with her husband’s devotion and commitment to faith.
Bibliography
Kleinsasser, Joseph. "Sterben Bericht von Ältesten Joseph Kleinsasser." Unknown Hutterite author, April 16, 1947.
File:1947-04-17 Joseph Kleinsasser Milltown Passed Away.pdf Winnipeg Free Press. "Hutterite Chief at Milltown Dies." April 17, 1947.
| Author(s) | Ian Kleinsasser |
|---|---|
| Date Published | April 2025 |
Cite This Article
MLA style
Kleinsasser, Ian. "Kleinsasser, Joseph (1869-1947)." Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. April 2025. Web. 1 Feb 2026. https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Kleinsasser,_Joseph_(1869-1947)&oldid=180572.
APA style
Kleinsasser, Ian. (April 2025). Kleinsasser, Joseph (1869-1947). Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Retrieved 1 February 2026, from https://gameo.org/index.php?title=Kleinsasser,_Joseph_(1869-1947)&oldid=180572.
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