Palo Alto County, Iowa Obituary Submissions

 


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
February 1985

ROSE HILLMER
   MALLARD- Rose Hillmer, 91, Mallard, died Thursday evening at the Palo Alto County Hospital in Emmetsburg.  Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Trinity Lutheran Church here.  Burial will be in Ruch Lake Cemetery at Mallard.
   Survivors include daughters, Mrs. R.R. (Violet) Koepsell, Cedar Rapids, Gladys Shepherd, Corydon, and Mrs. Raymond (Rosella) Gramstad, Clarion; sons, Lyle Hillmer, Mason City, Stanley Hillmer, Spencer, and Ronald Hillmer, Mallard; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Charles Krieg, Emmetsburg; and sister, Mabel Holen, Hemet, Calif.
   Mrs. Hillmer was born at Mallard, where she was raised and educated.  In 1915 she married August Hillmer at Mallard. The couple  farmed near Mallard.  Mr. Hillmer died in 1963 and Mrs. Hillmer moved to Mallard.

Personal Notes: Daughter of John and Cora Young Krieg.  She was born 4 Nov 1893 and died 21 Feb 1985.

Nedra Bennett
email: nedrairene@cs.com


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
9 May 1923

                Fatal Accident on Saturday,
                William H. Wilcox crushed
                by  Loaded Wagon.
                Old Resident of Curlew.


         A fatal accident occurred last Saturday at the home
        of Mrs Marie Grice, who lives near Curlew.
        William H.Wilcox, who was in her employ,
        had loaded a number of hogs and was
        preparing to haul them to town.
        He decided to throw some water on them
        so as to keep them cool.
        He stood on the doubletraces of the wagon
        and Mrs Grice handed him a pail of water.
        The team became frightened and ran.
        Mr. Wilcox was thrown under the wagon,
        the wheels passing over his neck and chest.
        He lived for about 30 minutes after the accident.
        His neck was broken and his chest crushed.
        Several ribs were broken.

        The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon.
        the services were conducted at the
         Baptist Church,Rev.Thompson
        of Spencer officiating.
         Burial was in Rush lake Cemetery
        and was largely attended by relatives,
        old neighbors and friends.
       
        Mr. Wilcox was born  at Bassett Station,Wisconsin.
        He was 67 years old.He came to this county in 1889.
        He subsequently spent most of his time in
        the vicinity of Curlew.
        Surviving are his wife,1 son  ,and 3 daughters.
        His daughters ,all married live in Wisconsin
        They came to attend the funeral.
        His son, Arthur Wilcox,who lives near Curlew
        is well known in this section of the county.
        Mr.and Mrs Wilcox were living at the home
        of Mrs Grice when the sad accident occurred.

Notes: W.H. Wilcox Jr. born ,1856, Bassett Station, Randall County, Wisc.
Parents were Wm. H. and Rhoda M. Reynolds Wilcox. He married Emeline Brower 1878,who preceded him in death, 1891.
He later married Mae Cameron Brumm.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, March 16, 1921

JOHN DRUMMY DIES IN HOSPITAL
The Funeral Was Held in This City on Tuesday Forenoon

    John Drummy, who was ill for some time, passed away at Rochester, Minnesota, last Saturday. The remains were brought to this city on Sunday. The funeral was held on Tuesday. Services were conducted at St. Thomas church, Rev. William Drummy of Rantoul, Illinois, a nephew of Mr. Drummy, celebrating a requiem high mass. The burial was in St. John's cemetery. The Knights of Columbus and the members of the Catholic Order of Foresters attended in a body. Mr. Drummy belonged to both organizations. The pall bearers were M.F. Kerwick, Ed McNally, Dan Burns, John O'Brien, P.C. Jackman and Charles Nolan.
    Mr. Drummy was born in the state of New York June 29, 1885 [Note: this date is incorrect and should probably be June 29, 1857 as per 1900 census]. His age was 65. His parents came to Dubuque county when he was a child. Afterwards they moved to Delaware county. They lived in the vicinity of Castle Grove for many years. Mr. Drummy was united in marriage to Mary E. McLaughlin, April 2, 1877. Mr. and Mrs. Drummy came to Emmetsburg over thirty years ago. They subsequently made their home in this city. Mr. Drummy is survived by his wife, one son and four daughters. The son is John Drummy, well known to our many local readers. The daughters are Mrs. O.W. Lans of Chicago, Mrs. W.P. McNally and Mrs. F.A. McCarty of Emmetsburg and Mrs. Frank Stookey of Kirksville, Missouri.
    Mr. Drummy was a traveling salesman for a number of years and he also served as a city marshal for quite a long time. Several years ago he opened a grocery store. He enjoyed a substantial patronage and built up a profitable business, which is still conducted on North Broadway.
    Mr. Drummy was deservedly esteemed as a business man, a citizen and a Christian gentleman. He was a far seeing, provident husband, a kind, considerate, loving father and a patriotic member of our community. Though his physical constitution would not permit him to perform laborious duty, he  ????? best to give to the members of his family all of the advantages in life that his means could provide and he contributed creditably to every worthy local enterprise. He was painstaking and careful in his business dealings and his numerous patrons always felt that he had tried to treat them justly. He was courteous and obliging and he would go to the limit to accommodate a friend. He practiced moderation in his habits and he was a faithful and loyal member of his church. He read current literature closely and he kept well posted on home and general affairs. We prized Mr. Drummy's friendship and on many occasions, we felt deeply indebted to him for his loyal support and his hearty good will. he will be missed as a business man and as a useful member of our community. Mrs. Drummy and the other surviving members of his family have the sincere sympathy of our numerous readers in their bereavement.
    Those who came from a distance to attend the funeral of Mr. Drummy were Rev. William Drummy of Rantoul, Illinois, Mr. and Mrs. A. Murphy, Mr. and Mrs. T.H. McLaughlin, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Dakens, Joseph and Charles McLaughlin and Miss Page, all of Fonda, Mr. and Mrs. McEnimy of Minneapolis, Mrs. Ed Burns and son of DeSmet, S.D., Miss Agnes McLaughlin of Minneapolis, Vincent Drummy of Ryan, Iowa, Mrs. Sam Drummy of Omaha, Nebraska, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Stookey of Kirksville, Missouri.


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, March 16, 1921

THE LATE JOHN BRANAGAN
The Burial Was At Lawler Last Sunday Forenoon.

    The funeral of John Branagan, brother of W.I. Branagan, who died at Libby, Montana, on Tuesday of last week, was held at Lawler on Sunday, Father O'Brien, the pastor, officiating. He celebrated a requiem high mass. The burial was in the parochial cemetery. There was a large attendance of relatives and old neighbors. The previous Thursday morning the services were conducted in the Catholic church at Libby, the pastor Father L.J. McRory, officiating.
    John Branagan, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Branagan, who located at Clermont, Iowa, in 1856, was born at that place on August 4, 1859. His age was 61. he was the third son of a family of six sons and three daughters. In 1875 the family moved to Lawler. After attending the Breckenridge Business College at Decorah for some time, John went west in 1881. He engaged in gold mining. Some years later he located a very promising property some distance from Libby. A company was organized and a stamp mill was built and operated successfully for a number of years. The latter part of his life was spent in the development and improvement of his property. His health failed last summer but he was reluctant to leave the scenes where he had spent so many active and interesting years. He is survived by four brothers and one sister. The brothers are Patrick and James A., of Lawler, W.I. of Emmetsburg, and E.A. of Colman, South Dakota. The only sister, Miss Maria Branagan, resides at Lawler.
     Mr. Branagan was a quiet, unpretentious man. He was observing, careful and prudent and his judgment backed by forty years of experience, was considered valuable in the line in which he applied himself. He as economical and conservative and his integrity never questioned. His habits were above reproach. His associates respected him for his motives and he had many loyal friends among those who engaged in mining, as well as among business people, who had large dealings with him. His affectionate regard of his parents, brothers and sister never grew cold. [rest of article missing.]


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, June 9, 1920


TOM SCOTT DEAD COMMITS SUICIDE
Body Found in Evergreen Cemetery. He Drank Carbolic Acid.

    Thomas Scott, who lived in the county house for several years, committed suicide last Sunday afternoon by drinking carbolic acid. The bottle containing some of the deadly fluid was found about twenty feet from where he was lying in the Evergreen cemetery. His lips, mouth, and throat were badly burned. The remains were uncovered early Monday morning by Melvin Church. They were taken to Mr. Foy's undertaking establishment where they were prepared for burial. The funeral will be held today. The remains will be laid to rest in Evergreen cemetery. The pall bearers chosen were William Young, Gray Gowans, James Hamilton, J.S. Gibson, David Wait and John Scott.
    Mr. Scott was a native of Scotland. He resided in this county for perhaps thirty years. He worked for a number of farmers but, as he was growing old, and having but little money, he went to the county house to live. He has a brother, a clergyman, who resides near Edinburgh, Scotland. The only close relative is a cousin, Margaret Marchland, of Toulon, Illinois. Mr. Scott was perhaps sixty-five years of age. He was single.
    The deceased was a warm hearted old gentleman. He was well acquainted with all of our business people and frequently called upon them to chat and discuss matters of general interest. On several occasions he intimated to a few with whom he talked that he might commit suicide. We understand that Sunday afternoon he made some statement to this effect. Mr. Scott frequently called at the Democrat office for Spencer, Sheldon and other county exchanges. He was always good natured, though often despondent. We learn with sorrow of his death.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Dec 26, 1917

MRS. ALISON BAXTER
    Mrs. Alison Baxter was quite suddenly called from our midst last week. She was on a case at the home of Mr. North, near Cylinder, and Friday evening became quite ill. Her children, J.T. Baxter and Mrs. Gust Linden of this vicinity were called and were at her bedside when she passed away on Monday morning, Dec. 17 at 8:36. Heart failure is given as the cause of her death. The remains were brought to the home of the deceased in this city on Monday evening. Funeral services were held from the Methodist church on Wednesday. Rev. Wilkerson conducted the funeral services.
    Miss Alison McDonald was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on December 26, 1869. She grew to young womanhood in this country and received her education there. When a child she became affiliated with the Free church of Scotland and was a faithful christian and tireless church worker. On Feb. 27, 1885, she was united in marriage to Thomas Baxter in Galabreis, Scotland. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Baxter immigrated to America and came directly to Palo Alto county and settled on a farm a short distance from Ruthven. They farmed for several years, later moving to Ruthven where about twelve years ago Mr. Baxter died. In late years Mrs. Baxter has taken up nursing and her patience, friendliness and solicitude for others made her an expert in this line. She was known through her work all over this section, and her friends were numerous in every locality in which she worked. She was gentle, kind and loving, always forwarding others interests in preference to her own, and ever providing for and working for the betterment of others. By her own family will she be most missed- fortunate people have a mother such as she was and her death will long be felt by her children. Soon after coming to this country she affiliated herself with the M.E. Church and every moment of her existence was blessed with Christian thought and intent. She leaves to mourn her loss, besides her two children, one sister and three brothers. The Free Press extends sincere sympathy to the bereaved relatives.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Dec 26, 1917

Mrs. Asloug Thoreson
    Mrs. Asloug Thoreson passed away Friday, Dec. 14, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. L.H. Sporan of this city. Mrs. Thoreson was nearly eighty years of age. She has been ailing for many years and has been confined to her bed for the past three and a half years. The funeral services were held from the Lutheran church and the remains interred in the Lost Island cemetery on Monday, Dec. 17. Rev. L.O. Wigdahl conducted the funeral services.
    Miss Asloug Olson was born in Nummerdaring, Norway, on March 1, 1829. She resided there with her parents until 1848, when they immigrated to America and settled in Dane county, Wisconsin, where she resided until 1850, when she was united in marriage to Knut Thoreson. They came to Palo Alto county in 1871 and she has made her home here ever since. Ten children were born to this union, eight of whom are still living. All of the children except one, Andrew of Audibon, were present at the funeral. She has been cared for during her declining years in the house of her daughter, Mrs. J.H. Sporan, who was assisted in materiality in caring for her by the rest of the children.
    The deceased has lived a long and useful life. She spent the prime of her life battling the disadvantages and obstacles that had to be faced by the pioneer settlers. She belongs to the class that is entitled to ninety per cent of the credit of making this great middle west a fit and safe place to live in. She had resided in Palo Alto county nearly half a century and seven years before the town of Ruthven was founded. She was a loving and devoted mother and a true friend and neighbor. She leaves to mourn her loss eight children: Mrs. L.H. Sporan, Mrs. Gertrude Christianson, Mrs. Lars Olson, Mrs. Hans Vestigaard, Thore Knutson, O.K. Thoreson and K. K. Thoreson.
    To these bereaved relatives the Free Press Extends sincere sympathy.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Sep 24, 1930

FORMER RESIDENT DIES AT CYLINDER.
    Charles H. Slagle, who was depot agent in Ruthven for nineteen years, died at his home in Cylinder, Iowa, last Monday and the funeral will be held at the St. Thomas church at Emmetsburg this Wednesday forenoon at 9:30.
     Mr. Slagle was born in Goodhue county, Minnesota, on January 10, 1858, and died on September 22, 1930, at the age of 72 years, 7  months, and 12 days. When he was twelve years old he moved with his parents to Algona. He graduated from the old Algona normal school and then taught school for some time. In 1870 he began railroading and helped lay the railroad track from Algona to Emmetsburg. He was depot agent at Ruthven from 1900 to 1919, when he moved to Cylinder where he resided until his death.
    He was married to Thressa A. Zahlten on November 18, 1880, and four children were born to this union. Two of the children died at an early age and he is survived by August Slagle and Mrs. Ray Mason, both of Algona. Mrs. Slagle died on February 22, 1898, he married Margaret Joynt of Emmetsburg, and to this union was born five children: Elmer, George, Raphael, Francis and Winnifred.
    The deceased is survived by his wife, Margaret, and seven children, also two brothers, Frank Slagle of Algona, and Elmer Slagle of Los Angeles, California.
    During the years he lived in Ruthven he took a prominent part in all community affairs. He organized a ladies' band at this place and also several other musical organizations. He served as a member of the local school board for six years, and was a member of the Masonic order here and continued to hold his membership in the local order until his death. He joined the Catholic church while in California.

 


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Sep 24, 1930

S.N. WAGNER DIES AT CASEY, IOWA
Well Known Business Man Died Last Wednesday; Lived in Ruthven 21 Years.
    Sol. N. Wagner, a resident of this community for twenty-one years, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Lulu Kirkpatrick, near Casey, Iowa, on Wednesday, September 17, 1930. He had been in ill health for some time and several weeks ago he was taken to the home of his daughter, near Casey. He failed to show signs of improvement and gradually grew weaker.
    Mr. Wagner was born at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on February 24, 1845, and was 85 years, 6 months and 20 days old at the time of his death. He moved to Iowa with his parents when he was two years old, and the family settled near Muscatine where they lived until he attained his majority.
    He was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Funk at Danville, Iowa, in October, 1864, and ten children were born to this union, eight of whom survive him. The living children are: Mrs. Ellie Cline of Melno; Elmer Wagner of Ruthven; W.H. Wagner of Anita; Mrs. Cora Robertson of Dallas, Texas; Mrs. Lulu Kirkpatrick of Casey; Howard Wagner of Des Moines; Mrs. Maude Amarine of Ft. Morgan, Colorado; and Lloyd Wagner of Los Angeles, California.
    Mr. Wagner and his family settled on a farm northeast of Anita, Iowa, in 1873. Mrs. Wagner passed away in 1897, and in 1903 he moved to Anita. He then moved to Ruthven in 1909 and became associated with his son, Elmer Wagner, in the hardware business and continued to make his home here until a few weeks ago when he disposed of his interests in the hardware at this place on account of poor health and advanced age, and went to Casey to live with his daughter, Mrs. Kirkpatrick.
    The funeral was held at the W.H. Wagner home in Anita last Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. E.L. Anderson, pastor of the Congregational church and burial took place in the Evergreen cemetery at Anita.
    During the nineteen years that the deceased lived in this vicinity, he won many friends who grieve to learn of his sudden death after his recent retirement from active business life.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, IOWA
March  28, 1928

MRS. JOHN CURRANS
    Mrs. John A. Currans, resident of this vicinity for 22 years, died at Emmetsburg on Monday of last week, following an operation at a hospital at that place. She had been ill but a few days.
    Margaret Henrietta Claer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Claer, was born in Emmetsburg township, Palo Alto county, Iowa, on March 23, 1884, and had spent her entire life in this county. She was united in marriage to John A. Currans on June 18, 1906 and to this union three daughters were born: Helen, Kathleen and Florence. Helen died five years ago and Kathleen died about a year ago.
    Mr. and Mrs. Currans lived on a farm near Ruthven for twenty-two years, moving to Emmetsburg about a month ago.
    The funeral services were held at the St. Thomas church at Emmetsburg last Thursday morning, with Rev. Fr. McNerney officiating. Rev. Thomas Coleman of Ruthven, preached an impressive sermon and later conducted the ceremony at the burial in the Catholic cemetery at Ruthven. The pallbearers were: James Donahue, Joe Joynt, Andrew Grace, Nick Geelan, Dan Green and Henry Joynt.
    Besides her husband and daughter she is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Claer of Emmetsburg, two sisters, Mary Claer and Mrs. Rose Crooks, both of Estherville and seven brothers, P.J., Vincent, Edward and Chris of Emmetsburg, Leo of Estherville, Thomas of Wisconsin and Joe of Illinois.
    Mrs. Currans was well known in this community. She was a Christian woman and an ardent supporter of uplifting community sentiment. Her unexpected death is unusually sad, as her death followed that of her two oldest daughters.
    The sympathy of their many friends is extended to the husband and third daughter in their hour of deep sorrow.

Submitted by Gladys Wilcox


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, IOWA
March  28, 1928

MRS. OLE SANDVIG
    Mrs. Guro O. Sandvig (Ness), was born on January 24th, 1845, in Kvindbered, Parish of Hardanger, Norway. She was married to Ole Sandvig in 1870 and came to America in 1871, going to Lisbon, Illinois. In 1898 they moved to a farm south of Ruthven where they lived for fifteen years, and in 1908, they came to Ruthven to make their home. Mr. Sandvig passed away on June 12, 1917, and her son, Sam Sandvig, died on November 17, 1927. Mrs. Sandvig is the last one of a family of four.
    She leaves to mourn her departure eight children: Peter, John, Jens, Gerhard, Anna O. Bargstrum, Bertah Rolli, and Annette Williamson of Dodson, Montana and Henry of Ellingsburg, Washington.
    Mrs. Sandvig was always a good wife and mother, and an earnest Christian. After her husband died, her children, John, Peter, Ann and Bertha, who live in this vicinity, have cared for her. They did everything possible to make life comfortable and happy. Since last November she has been confined to her bed, and she passed away on Wednesday morning, March 21, 1928, at 4:45, at the age of 83 years, 1 month and 27 days.
    The funeral was held at the Zion Lutheran church last Saturday afternoon in charge of Rev. L.O. Wigdahl. The text for the funeral sermon was Psalm 4-8 "I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep; for thou, Lord, only maketh me dwell in safety."


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, Nov. 15, 1922

MRS. ANDREW LARSON DEAD
Passed Away November 8 at 7:45 P.M.- Interred Friday in Crown Hill Cemetery.
    Mrs. Andrew Larson died at her home in Ruthven at 7:45 o'clock on Wednesday evening, November 8,1922, after an illness of about two years, the last ten weeks of which confined her to her bed. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. L.O. Wigdahl on Friday afternoon, November 10 at 2:39 o'clock, at the Lutheran church, and interment was made in Crown Hill cemetery.
    Inger Marie Anderson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Knute Anderson, was born on September 30, 1867 at Ossian, Iowa, where she spent her girlhood days. On March 8, 1884, at Thor, Iowa, she was united in marriage to Mr. Andrew Larson. They came to Ruthven in 1887 and have since resided here.
    Soon after returning to Ruthven Mrs. Larson united with the Lutheran Church and has lived a consistent, devoted and Christian life.
    Mrs. Larson is survived by her husband, Andrew Larson, one daughter, Mrs. F.S. Grange, and four brothers: Herman Anderson of Rundall, Minn., Chris and Matt Anderson of Elmore, Minn., R.W. Anderson of Ossian, Iowa, and four sisters: Mrs. B.F. Grundy of Cas? Lake, Minn., Mrs. Maggie Iverson and Mrs. A. Davik???? of this city and Mrs. Lee of Ossian, Iowa.
    Those from a distance attending the funeral were: Chris Anderson and daughter, Miss Mamie and Matt Anderson and son, Melvin, of Elmore, Minn, and Mr. and Mrs. E.V. Peterson of Royal, Iowa.
    There were many beautiful floral arrangements, that showed the high regards in which Mrs. Larson was held.
    Mrs. Larson was a quiet, home loving woman, she was a good wife, a loving mother, and a kind neighbor who was always ready to lighten the burden of others. Her place can never be filled in the hearts of those who love her.
    We join with the many friends in extending sympathy to the sorrowing family in their hour of darkness.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
March 3, 1920

JOHN McNARY OBITUARY.
    John McNary was born near Salem, Ind., Oct. 17, 1844 and died Feb. 20, 1920, at Huntley, Minn., where he and Mrs. McNary were spending the winter with their daughter, Mrs. M.D. Messer. At the time of death he was 75 years, 4 months, and three days old.
    When six years of age he moved with his parents to Prairiesburg, Ia., where he grew to young manhood. It was at this place that he received his early schooling and later attended Lennox College at Hopkington, Ia.
    He had always regretted the fact that he was not allowed to go to the war with his brother William, but at this time occurred the death of his uncle at Nebraska City, leaving no one to take charge of the situation there. His father then secured permission for him to remain home and be sent to Nebraska City. Here is where he saw real pioneer life as he was compelled to make most of the journey on foot, a distance of nearly three thousand miles.
    He was united in marriage to Rebecca Jane Gift at Prairieburg April 2, 1867. In 1869 he was converted into the Methodist Episcopal church which he has since attended and faithfully supported. In the spring of 1872 they moved to Sheldon, Iowa, where they homesteaded about a mile and a half west of the present ??????. Here their hardships were many with long winters, no transportation facilities, sickness and various other drawbacks. At that place they also mourned the death of a daughter five years of age.
    In 1882 they moved to Ruthven and entered the store business which he conducted continually until the fall of 1914. During his business career he made hosts of friends by his most kind and genial manner and by his honest dealings at all times.
    On August 18, 1916 he was stricken with paralysis while returning from Camp Meeting at Spirit Lake. From that time until his death he was a most patient sufferer from this slow but eventually fatal affliction. In the more than three years, he seemed never to lose his optimism and no one ever heard him complain about his condition.
    During his life in Ruthven he was a prominent factor in the early growth of the town. He having taken an active part in the town's enterprises, serving for some years as a councilman. He was also instrumental in the building up of the Methodist Episcopal church to its present elegant building and large membership, having been directly interested in the building of the two preceding churches. He was also a member of the Masonic lodge for nearly fifty years.
    To us he leaves a memory of a life well spent, for he was a devout christian, a man of highest ideals, a kind and loving husband and father. The text of the sermon: "He giveth His Beloved sleep" was most fitting. Services were conducted from the M.E. church by Rev. J.B. Walker and Rev. W.A. Wilkinson after which burial was made in Crown Hill cemetery.
    He leaves to mourn his death his wife, also five children: Mr. Cecil McNary, of Terril, Ia.; Mrs. F.M. Fitzgerald of Ruthven; Mr. Frank McNary of Ruthven; Mrs. W.H. Mantle, Goldsboro, North Carolina; Mrs. M.D. Messer, Huntley, Minn. He is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. C.A. Ahrens of Mankato, Minn and Mrs. L. Stanfield, San Diego, Cal.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
March 3, 1920

JENS S. SANDVIG
    Jens S. Sandvig, one of the old and respected citizens of this community, passed away at his home in Graettinger Saturday morning, February 21, after a lingering illness of several weeks' duration. The funeral was held Monday afternoon at one o'clock. Services were conducted at the First Scandinavian Evangelical Lutheran church, the Rev. S.O. Sande, the pastor officiating. The remains were laid to rest in the parochial cemetery.
    Jens S. Sandvig was born in Kvenherre, Bergen, Norway, October 1, 1825. Hence he was 84 years, 4 months, and 20 days old at the time of his death. In 1868 he was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Oleson of Bergen, Norway. To this union nine children were born, seven of whom are living. They are Sam E. Sandvig of Ruthven; Mrs. Anna Amdahl, of Estherville; Mrs. Malinda Bakke of Roland, Iowa; James Sandvig of Graettinger; Edward J. Sandvig of Roland, Iowa; Mrs. Sadie Vetek of Marshalltown, Iowa (deceased); Lewis Sandvig of Greattinger and Josephine Sandvig (deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Sandvig left their native land in 1872 and emigrated to the United States, locating near Morris, in Grundy county, Illinois. Mrs. Sandvig passed away July 2, 1886. The following year Mr .Sandvig moved his family to Palo Alto county and settled on a farm in Lost Island township. In 1892 Mr .Sandvig was again married to Miss Martha Olson, at Paxton, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Sandvig resided on their Lost Island farm until 1911 when they moved to Graettinger to enjoy a well earned rest. Besides his wife the deceased is survived by his seven sons and daughters, 26 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. One brother resides at Lisbon, Illinois, and a sister, Mrs. H. Krahn, lives at McCallaburg, Iowa.--Graettinger Times.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Jan 7, 1920

Mrs. Kate Walsh
    On New Year's morning at 2??, Mrs. Kate Walsh breathed her last at the hospital at Spencer. Her death was due to dropsy. She had been in the hospital taking treatment for fourteen weeks but to no avail. The remains were brought to Ruthven, where on Saturday morning they were laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery, funeral services being conducted by Rev. P.J. Connolly from the Sacred Heart church. Mrs. Walsh was born in Ireland in August, 1856. When six years old she came to America with her parents and in the year 1871 she came to Iowa, settling in Clay County. Mr. Walsh died in February 1914 since when Mrs. Walsh had successfully managed the home farm until a little over a year ago, when her health began to fail, and she moved to Ruthven. She was of a cheerful disposition, a woman who lived with ??? for her children, showing them every attention and always having them uppermost in her thoughts. She had a large circle of friends in the locality in which she resided for so many years. She leaves to mourn her loss two sons, Joe and Will, both of Ruthven, and two daughters, Katie of Ruthven and Mrs. Joe Reardon of Dickens. The Free Press extends to them sincere sympathy.

ELK LAKE.
    Mrs. Kate Walsh passed away at the Spencer hospital Jan. 1st. She was fifty-seven years old and leaves four  children to mourn a loving mother. Two daughters Mrs. Mamie Reardon who lives on a farm southwest of Ruthven and Mrs. Katie Joseph and William Walsh lived with their mother in Ruthven. Mrs. Walsh was for many years a resident in this vicinity. The funeral was held from the Catholic church in Ruthven and was attended by many old neighbors and friends. The remains were laid to rest in the family lot beside her husband in the Catholic cemetery at Ruthven.
    Mr. and Mrs. Alex Monk motored to Spencer Friday to accompany the remains of Mrs. Walsh to her home in Ruthven.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, October 2, 1918

ANOTHER SOLDIER GONE
Lee Washington Succumbs at Great Lakes
    Another gold star has been added to the service flag of Ruthven. A message to the effect that Lee Washington was attacked with Spanish influenza and was in a very critical condition was received here Tuesday afternoon, Sept. 24, by his father, M.T. Washington, who left for the Great Lakes the same evening and arrived at Camp Dewey the next morning. He was permitted to see his son that evening for a few minutes but was compelled to content himself next day with waiting outside for news and at 9:30 a.m. the message was brought to him that Lee was dead. The remains arrived here Sunday evening and were taken to the Washington home east of town. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning from the Catholic church, Father Connolly officiating. Father Farrelly of Emmetsburg preached a very impressive and instructive sermon. The pallbearers were: Wm. Brennan, Carl Miller, Andy Grace, Joe Grady, Claude Nolan, Floyd Eaton, John Hughes and Louis Grady.
    Thomas Lee Washington was born on the Washington home place east of this city on August 4, 1896. He grew to young manhood here and attended the Ruthven High School. He remained at home until last January 1917, when he went to Omaha and entered the employ of the Combination Tire Co., as a traveling salesman. He remained with this company until June 1st when he went to Detroit and entered a mechanical training school, which he attended until July 24, when he enlisted in the navy at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station. He made rapid progress in the navy and had very bright prospects for a brilliant future in the service of Uncle Sam. He contracted a cold which showed symptoms of Spanish influenza which is sweeping the country and was taken to the base hospital where after a time he seemed to recover. He wrote his mother on Monday, September 23, stating that he was almost entirely recovered and requesting that she send some apples. This was followed on Tuesday by the message announcing his serious condition and on Thursday, September 26 at 9:30 a.m. he passed away. Lee was a light-hearted happy fellow and was a friend to everyone. He greatly enjoyed his life in the navy and was decidedly earnest in preparing himself to fight for his country. He was one of thirty-six cousins of the Washington family who are serving in some branch of the American army. The great General Marsch, who is helping to make history in France is also one of these cousins, as if First Lieut. Wm. Washington of Cleveland, who was recently killed in action in France. He is the second Ruthven boy to pass away in training camp, while preparing to do their share in the big struggle in France and while fate decreed that they should never see the battle fields, they are entitled to every honor that is shown the soldier killed in action. At the time of his death Lee was a member of Co. A., 1st Regiment, Camp Dewey. He visited at home for a few days just about two weeks before his death and was hale, hearty and full of the joy of living and doing his bit for his country.
    He leaves to mourn his loss, besides his parents, six brothers: George F., who was training in Camp Dodge for over three months and was discharged because of physical disability, Edward T., William C, John J, and Vincent M, who live at home, and Pvt. James E. Washington of Camp Kearney, Cal. Also two sisters, Marjorie of Ruthven and Mrs. Ray L. Beselen of Omaha. The Free Press joins his many friends of these bereaved relatives in extending sincere sympathy.


Emmetsburg,Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
February 09, 1983


        Maude Wilcox
     Funeral services for Maude L. Wilcox,94, were held Monday afternoon at the United Methodist church. The Rev. William Cotton officiated, and burial was at Evergreen cemetery.
    Her grandsons, Terry Wilcox, Kevin Wilcox, Gary Kauffman, Don Heiter Jr., Roger Green, Kirby Wilcox ,Roger Jensen and Dennis Anderson, served as casket bearers.
    She died Friday, February 4 at the Palo Alto Hospital.
    The daughter of James and Sarah Hare Phelps, she was born Sept.23,1888 in LeRoy ,Ill. Her family then moved to Curlew, where she married Arthur Wilcox on October 21,1909.
    Mrs Wilcox is survived by six children, James Wilcox and Maxine Heiter, Spencer, Paul Wilcox and Rose Anderson, Ruthven, Leone Kauffman and Max Wilcox Emmetsburg, 30 grandchildren, 83 great-grandchildren and 22 great-great-grandchildren.
   She was preceded in death by her husband, two sons, Arthur and Edwin Wilcox and one daughter Dorothy Jensen; four grandchildren; four brothers and three sisters.
   The Martin-Bails Funeral Home was in charge of the service arrangements. 

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com


Emmetsburg,Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
October 31, 1961

Rites For Wilcox,78,Set For Today.

       Funeral services for Arthur Edwin Wilcox, 78 ,long time Palo Alto county resident will be held today ( Tuesday) at 11 a.m. at Ellsworth -Beiter funeral home for family members and at 2 o'clock in First Methodist Church. The Rev, Dr.E.F.Martin will officiate and burial will be at Evergreen cemetery with Ellsworth-Beiter funeral home in charge. Mr Wilcox died Saturday at Palo Alto Memorial hospital after a prolonged illness.
      Born May 8, 1883,at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, he was the son of William H. and Emeline Brower Wilcox. He attended the Curlew schools. He came to this county from Wisconsin 73 years ago and lived in Emmetsburg the past 20 years..
     On October 21,1909 he was united in marriage to Maude Leah Phelps at Curlew.Mr Wilcox had been employed by Dinges Motor Company in Emmetsburg until his retirement in 1965.
    He is survived by his wife and four sons and four daughters. They are Mrs Ralph(Leone) Kauffman of Rolfe, Mrs Donald ( Maxine) Heiter of Spencer, Mrs Reinhold (Rose) Anderson of Ruthven, Mrs Donald (Dorothy) Jensen of Marion, Edwin of Laurens, James of Spencer, Paul of Ruthven and Max of Emmetsburg. Other survivors are three sisters, Mrs Emma Blaine and Mrs May Wight , both of Kenosha,Wis., and Mrs Eva Wight of Racine, Wis.; 28 grandchildren and
20 great-grandchildren.
    He was proceeded in death by his parents, an infant son Arthur Edwin in 1918 and four grandchildren, Shirley Wilcox in 1944, Caroline Anderson in 1947, Richard Kauffman in 1959 and
Joan Wilcox Perrigo in 1961.
   The pallbearers will be Robert Culver, Arthur Weiland, Lloyd Jensvold, James Frambach, Peter Salisbury and Walter High.
   Mr Wilcox had been employed by Dinges Motor company at Emmetsburg until his retirement a few years ago. He and his wife celebrated their golden wedding anniversary two years ago. He was a familiar figure in Emmetsburg and will be missed by many friends.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
    


Emmetsburg,Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
January 14, 1953

Funeral Rites Held Here For Henry Le Roy Crook
 
     Funeral services for Le Roy Crook, 76, who suffered a fatal heart attack at 3:15 Wednesday afternoon, January 7, in Emmetsburg, were held Saturday at the First Methodist church here, the Rev. Paul R.Johnson, pastor, officiating. 
     Interment was in Evergreen cemetery  with the Martin Funeral home in charge of arrangements. Pall bearers  were Bert Ryan, James Burns, Adolph Graveland, Alfred Murray, Joe Carroll and William Eagan. 
     Henry Leroy Crook, son of Brunson and Mary Etta Van Dusen Crook, was born July 5,1877 at Chillicothe, Ill.
He was united in marriage at Lacon, Ill., Oct.2,1895 to Margaret Myrtle Traver. Mr. and Mrs. Crook moved here from Illinois and have been residents for 34 years.
     The couple were parents of eight children, Mrs. Harley Henkins of Henry, Ill, Clarence Crook of Bradford, Ill., Mrs. Lyle Frederick of Cylinder and Leroy Crook of Emmetsburg. Four of the children are deceased, Lola Tunis, Hazel, Olive and Emma.
     Mr. Crook is also survived by his wife, two brothers, Ray of Chicago and Bert of Emmetsburg, two sisters, Mary of Peoria, Ill and Anne of Niles, Mich.,.29 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
     Mr Crook retired from farming in March 1941,and since then has been living southwest of Emmetsburg. Death occurred almost immediately while backing his car out from the curb at the Broadway and Eleventh street intersection. Mr. Crook is a well known resident of Emmetsburg and his friends will regret to learn of his death.
 
Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
    


Emmetsburg,Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
May 17, 1967

Last Rites for Mrs. Roy Crook

   Mrs. Roy Crook, 85, a resident of the Emmetsburg area since 1919, died May 14 at Palo Alto County Hospital following a period of ill health. Funeral services were May 17 at the First Methodist Church here with the Rev.Chester L.Guinn officiating. Burial was in Evergreen cemetery.  Pallbearers were William Egan ,Ervin Graham, Wilbur Orton, Elmer Hildebrand , Alfred Murray and James Mehan.
  Mrs. Crook, the former Margaret Myrtle Traver was born March 10, 1882 at Lacon,Ill, to Augusta and  Melissa Imel Traver. On November 2 ,1896, she was married to Roy Crook at Lacon.
  She is survived by four children, Clarence Crook of Putnam,Ill.; Leroy Crook of Emmetsburg; Mrs. Mabel Henkins,of Henry,Ill and Mrs. Lyle Frederick of Cylinder, and one sister Mrs. Gertrude Allen of  Illinois. Also surviving are 28 grandchildren, 76 great grandchildren and 16 great-great grandchildren. Her husband and four daughters preceded her in death.
 In her long lifetime,Mrs. Crook had made many friends and she was devoted to her family. They mourn her passing as do all who knew her.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


The Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
22 Dec.1915


     CURLEW, IA. W.H.Wilcox passed away at his sons home Friday evening, Dec.17. He was about 90 years of age. The funeral was held at the Baptist church Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev.Davis having charge of the service.

Notes: Wm.Henry Wilcox ,born 17 January 1832, Rhode Island. Married Rhoda M. Reynolds,1854. They were the parents of 11 children ,the eldest Wm. H.Wilcox Jr.,with whom he was living at the time of his death. Burial in Rush Lake cemetery, Curlew, IA.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, February 12, 1913

Mrs. Martin Laughlin Dead
She Died Rather Unexpectedly Last Thursday Evening.


   Mrs. Martin Laughlin died at her home near Graettinger last Thursday afternoon about 4:15. She had an attack of pneumonia some time ago but was feeling quite strong and was considered out of danger. Wednesday evening she sat up in bed and read the local newspapers. Early Thursday morning she aroused Mr. Laughlin and told him that her limbs were cold and that she could not warm them. He sent at noon for Dr. Harrison. Dr. Hennessy of this city was also called in consultation. The action of her heart was poor and would not respond to the needs of the system. She soon realized that death was close at hand and told her mother and others that she knew that she could last but a few hours. When her children came home from school she called them about her, bidding them good by, and within an hour passed peacefully to her eternal reward. In a few hours the home in which she was so much needed was saddened by her unexpected death. The funeral was held Sunday and was very largely attended, many going from this locality. Services were conducted at the Catholic church at Graettinger, Rev. J. Kelly officiating. He preached an impressive sermon on the gospel of the day, closing with a well deserved tribute to the worth of the deceased.  The burial was in the parochial cemetery. The pall bearers were Matt Murphy, Alex Cullen, W. E. Jackman, P. C. Jackman, P. J. McCarty, and D. E. McCarty.
   Mary Ellen Nolan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Nolan, was born in Freedom Township June 14, 1877. She grew to womanhood in this locality.  November 22, 1898, she was married to Martin Laughlin. For a year they resided on a farm in this vicinity, after which they moved onto a farm near Graettinger, subsequently residing there. She is survived by her husband and four children - Leland, Marie, Rosalie, and a daughter, one month old. Her parents, several brothers and one sister are also living.
   Mrs. Laughlin was a woman who, through life, enjoyed the friendship and the esteem of all who knew her. She as bright, happy, cheerful and agreeable as a small girl and as she grew older she became stronger in the development of these traits, which do so much to make others happy. There was nothing in her disposition that had a tendency to arouse the rivalry or antagonism of those among whom she mingled as a young lady and later as a wife and mother. Her career was helpful and edifying and her activity and efforts as a Christian lady were prompted by a heart filled with kindness, good will and charity.  She was devoted to the religious ideals she had learned in church in girlhood and she sought to foster love for them and loyalty to them in the hearts of those who looked to her for inspiration and guidance. Her death at a time when her children so much needed her affection, her attention and her good counsel is indeed sad, but there is every reason to hope that Providence will, in some way, compensate them for the maternal solace and the comfort that has been taken from them. Mrs. Laughlin will be missed, not only by her husband, children, parents and other close relatives, but also by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances who had learned to entertain for her the respect and confidence that are formed, cultivated and strengthened by years of association. The sympathy of all is extended to the surviving members of the family on the irreparable loss which they have sustained.

Kathleen Frailey Puls
kathleenpuls@comcast.net


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, April 12, 1916

Lot Laughlin Died Early Friday Morning
Was Member of Irish Colony, Lived in County About Sixty Years.


   Thursday night about 8 o'clock our citizens learned of the death of Patrick Mulroney, mention of which is made elsewhere in this issue of the Democrat. In the morning it was announced that Lott Laughlin, his next door neighbor and intimate personal friend for fifty-five years, had also passed away during the night.  Their deaths occurred about eight hours apart. Wednesday Mr. Laughlin called to see Mr. Mulroney, who was very ill, and speaking to a friend after he did not think his old neighbor would live very long.  Mr. Laughlin arose as usual Thursday morning and ate a hearty breakfast.  He was feeling quite strong.  During the forenoon he was taken very ill and towards evening the members of the family became greatly alarmed about his condition. He passed away at four o'clock in the morning.
   The funeral was held Monday forenoon.  Services were conducted at Assumption church, the Very Rev. P. F. Farrelly officiating.  The burial was in St. John's cemetery. There was a large attendance of neighbors and old friends from distant parts of the county.  The pall bears were J. J. Mahan, Charles Nolan, M. T. Washington, Edward Ryan, Thomas Kirby and J. P. Crowley.
   Lot Laughlin was born at Castle Warren, in the county of Kilkenny, Ireland, January 1, 1839. When he was nine years old his parents came to the United States. They located at Worcester, Mass. Four years later they came west and settled at Elgin, Ill., where they lived for four years. In 1856, in company with James and John Nolan, John Neary, Edward and Myles Mahan, Martin Laughlin, Thomas Laughlin and Patrick and Michael Jackman, practically all being men of families, started to Iowa. After crossing the Mississippi river by ferry they came to Iowa City and thence to Fort Dodge. During the summer they brought a surveyor to Palo Alto county to locate claims. They settled near the Des Moines River about one and one-half miles northwest of the present town of Emmetsburg. There was made the first settlement in our county with the exception of the Carter family near West Bend. Lott Laughlin's mother prepared the first meal of victuals in the new  colony. During the season all secured land and built humble homes.
   Fort Dodge was the nearest market. The new comers had to buy all of their supplies and dispose of their products at that place. The Irish families never had any difficulties with the Indians. At the time of the Spirit Lake Massacre the Emmetsburg colony was not molested.
   In 1862, Mr. Laughlin, in company with Joseph and Kern Mulroney, J. P. Crowley, P. R. Jackman and Fayette Carter of West Bend, joined the North Iowa brigade at Estherville - an organization formed by the state for the protection of the early settlers from the Indians who had massacred many people near New Ulm, Minn.  Capt. Ingham of Algona, father of Harvey Ingham of the Des Moines Register & Leader, was in charge of the company. The territory from Chain Lake, some distance from Armstrong, west to Spirit Lake and northwest as far as Cherokee had to be guarded. There were U. S. soldiers at Spirit Lake, but the members of the North Iowa brigade had to protect the posts at Estherville, Chain Lake, Cherokee and other places.  The Estherville post was called Fort Defiance. Mr. Laughlin had an excellent picture of it in his home. The Emmetsburg soldiers served from August 1862, until January 1865. They were never obliged to come into contact with the red men.
  Mr. Laughlin was married in the old Catholic church northwest of this city November 27, 1874, to Miss Rose Campion, Rev. J. J. Smith performing the ceremony. Four sons and three daughters, besides the mother, survive. They are Martin of Graettinger, William of Emmetsburg, Lott of Taylor, Texas, and P. J. , who is employed in the Denver National bank of Denver, Colo.  The daughters are Mrs. Wm. Kane and Misses Nellie and Rose of this city. Miss Nellie is assistant county superintendent, and Miss Rose is a trained nurse.
   There was perhaps no citizen of this section of Iowa who was better known in pioneer days or who was more highly respected during his residence of sixty years in the county than was Mr. Laughlin. He was modest and quiet and was as gentle as a child. He esteemed it a privilege to perform an act of kindness. Though he had well defined purposes and was ever loyal to them, he avoided bitter disputes and he was at all times on the best of terms with his neighbors and associates.  For many years he was an employer of laborers. He invariably had the highest consideration for their rights and interests and many of them - people of all nationalities and creeds - who are now old, substantial and prosperous farmers of our county, recall with pride his fairness and his true sense of justice in his dealings with them.  Mr. Laughlin enjoyed, during his long and active career, the sincere regard of those who had occasion to honor him during pioneer days. An old neighbor, Peter Peterson, remarked Monday, while in Emmetsburg, that a more upright, and deserving man, than Mr. Laughlin never resided in our county.  This is the sentiment of hundreds who knew him.  He was hospitable to strangers and he would spare no reasonable effort to all those who were in need of assistance or sympathy.  His zeal  for the welfare of members of his household was that of the thoughtful, provident, warm hearted  parent. His four devoted, affectionate, upright sons and three loving, widely respected daughters will long remember, with enduring gratitude, all that he did for them that they might occupy positions of honor and trust in the busy world. The voice of religion never appealed to Mr. Laughlin in vain.  He listened humbly and attentively to the wise counsels and he practiced obediently, conscientiously and reverently its necessary commandments and precepts. His modest professions as a Christian were backed by substantial and creditable deeds. He gave hearty support to his church, its various institutions and to other community undertakings that he deemed meritorious. His record in defense of his state and fellow pioneers, during the troublesome and trying days of 1862 to 1865, showed that he was willing to give his life, if need be, for the safety of others. The death of Mr. Laughlin will be generally and sincerely mourned.  Mrs. Laughlin and the sons and daughters have the profound sympathy of the people of the county and of other sections in their bereavement.

Note: Lott Laughlin was the son of Martin Laughlin and Mary Morrisey.

Kathleen Frailey Puls
kathleenpuls@comcast.net


Emmetsburg Thursday  Reporter
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
April 04 1940


Funeral services at Ruthven for John A. Currans.
                                                     
John A Currans , son of James H. and Susan Nesbitt-Currans, was born in Highland township, Palo Alto county, June 18,1879.He was united in marriage in Emmetsburg,June 18,1906 to Miss Margaret Claer. They lived on their farm in Highland township for 21 years, after which they moved to Emmetsburg. Three daughters were born to this union, Helen, Kathleen, and Florence.Helen passed away in 1922 and Kathleen in 1927. Mrs. Currans passed away March 26, 1928, following an illness of several days. Since that time,  Mr. Currans lived at Ruthven;  making his home with his sister, Ruth Currans.  About a year ago he suffered an attack of the flu from which he did not fully recover. He spent the past year in a sanitorium in Worthington,Minn., where he passed away on Wednesday,March 27, following a heart attack.
  Funeral services were conducted at the Sacred Heart Catholic church in Ruthven on Saturday morning, with Father E.L.Mc Evoy officiating. The requiem mass was sung by the choir. Interment  was in Calvary cemetery  beside the graves of his wife and two daughters,with the Lightle Funeral home in charge.
  He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Willard E. Befert, of Rochester,Minn., and a granddaughter Margaret Befert  and two grandsons, Richard and David Befert ; two brothers, William F. and J.H. Currans, both of Ruthven, and two sisters, Mrs. James Schade of Mallard and Ruth Currans of Ruthven.The pallbearers were Joe Joynt of Emmetsburg and Monty Clausing, James Grady, Tom Geelan, P.J.Brown and Fred Schnell of Ruthven.
 The deceased was a kind and loving  husband and father and was always solicitious for the welfare of those about him. He was patient in his sufferings and was never known to utter a word  of complaint during his long illness. In his passing the community has lost one of its  best citizens. The high esteem  in which he was held was evident in the large crowd that attended the funeral rites, and by the many floral offerings,which were truly beautiful.
  Relatives and friends  from a distance attending the funeral included: Mr. and Mrs. Willard E. Befert of Rochester,Minn., Mrs. Jane Schade and sons,James and  Raymond, and daughter, Frances, of Mallard; Mr. and Mrs. James Currans of Graettinger; P. Claer , Leonella and Vincent Claer, Mrs. Alice Currans and Donald Currans , all of Emmetsburg;  Leo Claer of Estherville, P.J. Claer of Spencer; Mr. and Mrs. James Antoine and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Antoine of Ayrshire; Mr. and Mrs. T.Terwilliger of Mallard.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Unknown Newspaper
Illinois
June 19, 1975


Personal_Notes:  Emmetsburg native, Margaret Myrtle  Clare  was born January 30,1923 in rural Emmetsburg, daughter of Christopher and Lola Mae (Crook) Clare. She attended Country school, and St Marys Catholic before the family moved from the area in 1935.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister Helen

  Obituary  

        Shaver, Mrs.Margaret
 Age 52 years. Late of Goose Lake, former Lockport,Ill. resident .
Passed away June 18,1975 at St Joseph Hospital, Joliet,Ill.
Survived by her husband Robert Shaver Sr., two sons, Robert Jr., and Patrick of Joliet,Ill. , three daughters,Mrs.Ina Beischel ,of Decator,Mich., Mrs. Lois Tieman of Lockport, Ill. ,Mrs Loyla Galanos of Mokena,Ill.,  one brother,six sisters,and 20 grandchildren.
Funeral services are Friday,June 20   from Reeves Funeral Home,Coal City at 9 a.m. to Assumption Catholic Church at 9:30. With  Rev.  George T.Flynn officiating.
Interment Mt.Olivet Cemetery , Wilmington , Illinois. .

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
June 1990

Emmetsburg Native Services Held in Illinois.

   Chillicothe,IL. -- Emmetsburg native Christopher Clare  died Wednesday , June 20,1990 at his home in Chillicothe, IL.  He was 60.
  Funeral services for Mr. Clare were held Friday, June 22, at Weber Funeral Home in Chillicothe,IL.
Father Terry Cassidy officiated. Burial was in Chillicothe City Cemetery.
  Christopher Clare was born July 9, 1929, in Emmetsburg, the son of Christopher and Lola Mae ( Crook ) Clare. Christopher attended grade school in Emmetsburg. The family moved to Chillicothe, where he graduated from high school.
  On Nov.19,1949, Christopher Clare and Maxine Beaumont were married in Ogelsby, IL.  Mr. Clare worked as a carpenter and was a member of Carpenters Local 183 in Peoria, IL. He was a member of St. Edmonds Catholic Church in Chillicothe, IL.
 Survivors include three children, Chris Clare  and Larry Clare ,both of Sparland, IL. and Loretta Clare of Chillicothe, IL.and six grandchildren.
 Also surviving are are six sisters, Gladys Wilcox of Spencer, Jeanne Ridgeway of Casper, WY., Kate Westerman of Chillicothe, IL., Elsie Reed of Hot Springs ,AR., Nancy Seaver of Chillicothe, IL. and Janet Davis of Lacon, IL.
  Mr Clare  was preceded in death  by his parents, his wife, Maxine in November 1977 and two sisters, Margaret and Helen.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
May 1992

Funeral Services Held For Former Resident.

  Hot Springs ,AR.   - - Former Emmetsburg resident Elsie May Reed died Monday, May 11,1992 at St Joseph's Regional Health Center in Hot Springs, Ark. She was 58.
  Funeral services for Mrs.Reed were held at the Hot Springs Funeral Home Chapel in Hot Springs, Ark. with the Rev. Larry Ferguson officiating. Burial was at Memorial Gardens Cemetery , Hot Springs, Ark.
  Elsie ( Clare ) Reed was born April 20,1934 in Emmetsburg, the daughter of Christopher and Lola May
(Crook) Clare. When very young she moved with the family to Chillicothe ,Ill., where she received her education.
  On April 12,1952, Elsie and Jess " Bud" Reed were married at Peoria, Ill. As a couple they resided in Chillicothe, Ill., until 1980 when they moved to Hot Springs,Ark.
  Mrs. Reed retired from working as a mutual clerk at Oaklawn Park. She was a member of Piney  Grove  United Methodist Church and the Women of the Moose.
  Surviving are her husband Jesse of Pearcy, Ark.; and five sisters, Mrs. James ( Gladys ) Wilcox  of Spencer, Mrs. George ( Jeanne ) Ridgeway of Casper,WY., Kate Westerman and Nancy Seaver of Chillicothe, Ill. and Mrs William ( Janet) Davis of Lacon, Ill.
  Mrs Reed was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Margaret and Helen;  and a brother ,Christopher.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
9 Sep 1925

OBITUARY OF MRS. DAVID E. MARKER
    Letha Dell Anderson was born in Warren county, Iowa, November 11, 1884 and died September 1, 1925. Her age was 41 years, 9 months and 21 days. She was married to David E. Marker October 2, 1901, and to this union three children were born, one dying in infancy. She was converted at the age of 14 and was baptized when she was 16. She joined the M.E. church and remained a member until her death. She was a member of the Ayrshire M.E. church for a number of years and in 1923 she transferred her membership to Ruthven. She resided in this community for the past twenty-four years and was well known to all.
    She was an exceptionally good woman. She was a fine homemaker, a good mother, a devoted wife and a kind neighbor.
    She leaves her companion of twenty-four years, two sons - Gilbert and Howard, her father, G.G. Anderson who lives in Lucas county, one sister, Mrs. Lizzie Michael of Des Moines, two half sisters and two half brothers, and many friends and neighbors to mourn her departure.
    The funeral was conducted at the M.E. church at Ayrshire by Rev. Bounds and Rev. Lumley of Ruthven. The choir sang four songs, one at the house and three at the church. The pallbearers were: John Dannewitz, Peter Spittal, D.A. Rouse, John Rehm, Willard Reed, and D. Umbrell. Interment was made in Silver Lake cemetery.


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, April 3, 1935

Michael Fleming Dies at Whittemore Sunday
    Michael Fleming, a pioneer resident of this vicinity, died at the home of his son-in-law, Michael Higgins, northwest of Whittemore, last Sunday morning. The funeral was held at Whittemore yesterday. He was about 85 years of age.
    Mr. Fleming came to Ruthven in 1871 and took up a homestead about five miles southwest of town. He lived on his farm until about twenty years ago when he moved to Whittemore. Of recent years he has been staying with his children.
    He is survived by two sons and four daughters.

Cathy Labath
labaths@netins.net


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
April 3, 1935

Mrs. Charles Slagle Dies at Cylinder on March 22
    Mrs. Charles Slagle, daughter of the late Patrick and Mary Ann Joynt, pioneer Palo Alto county residents, was born at Emmetsburg on Oct. 10, 1869, and died at her home at Cylinder on Friday afternoon, March 22, 1935, at the age of 65 years.
    The deceased was united in marriage to Charles Slagle on Feb. 22, 1898. He passed away about four years ago.  To this union were born five children: Elmer, George, Raphael, Frances and Winnifred, all of whom are living.
    The family lived in Ruthven for about seventeen years, Mr. Slagle being depot agent of the Milwaukee railroad.

Cathy Labath
labaths@netins.net


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, July 19, 1944


MIKE HOBEN DIES 
FUNERAL TUESDAY
Resident of County for 60 Years Passed Away last Saturday 
Funeral Tuesday.


     Michael Charles Hoben was born in Boone on Aug. 31, 1869, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Hoben. At the age of 15, he went with his parents to the vicinity of Emmetsburg to live, remaining there the rest of his life.
     On Feb. 21, 1906, he was united in marriage to Katherine Joynt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Joynt, at the Assumption Parish in Emmetsburg. To this union were born four children.
     Mr. Hoben had been in failing health for the past six years, but it did not become critical until three weeks ago.
     He leaves to mourn his death his wife, three sons and a daughter. A brother and sister, Steve, of Fort Sheridan, Ill., Earl of Ruthven, Leonard, somewhere in France, and Mrs. Lester Graeber of Lake Park, T.A. Hoben of Emmetsburg and Mrs. Margaret Brasch of New York.
     The funeral was held Tuesday morning at 9:30 with a high Mass, at the Catholic church in Ruthven. Burial was in the Calvary cemetery.
     Pallbearers were Vern Ball, Alfred Murray, Michael Dailey, Bill Brown, Dennis Carroll and W.P. McNally.
     Friends from a distance who attended the funeral were Steve Hoben of Fort Sheridan, Ill., Mr. and Mrs. Lester Graeber of Lake Park, John Vaughn of Detroit, Mich., Mr. and Mrs. Steve Vaughan and family of Mallard and Mrs. Frank Maher and son, of Cummings, Mr. and Mrs. M.W. Joynt of Chicago, Ill, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kannenberg of Spirit Lake, Ed Murphy and daughter, Hazel, and Mr. and Mrs. Leo Clare of Estherville, Mrs. Floyd Fleming and family of Graettinger, Mrs. Herb Von Holdt of Lake Park, and Dave Gavin of Pipestone, Minn.

Cathy Labath
labaths@netins.net


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
4 Jan 1996

     

     Leone Mae Kauffman, daughter of Arthur and Maude Wilcox, was born January 20,1911,near Curlew, Iowa. She attended country school in the Curlew area.
     Leone married Ralph Kauffman June 18,1932 at Canton, South Dakota. To this union two children were born.
    She was a homemaker, living in Rolfe until moving to Emmetsburg, after the death of her husband in 1971. Leone died Wednesday ,December 27,1995 at the Emmetsburg Care Center,  at the age of 84.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son  Richard; a brother Edwin; and a sister Dorothy.
      Leone is survived by a son, Donald and his wife Pat of Emmetsburg, six grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; three brothers, James Wilcox, Paul Wilcox and Max Wilcox,; two sisters, Maxine Heiter and Rose Anderson.: as well as many other relatives and friends.
     Services were held at the Martin-Mattice Funeral Home, Emmetsburg, Saturday December 30,at 1:00 p.m.  Rev. David Biddle officiated. Interment  at Clinton-Garfield Cemetery ,Rolfe ,Iowa. Arrangements by Martin Funeral Home.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
29 July 2003

Obituary -
          Paul L. Wilcox, 86 of De Witt, passed away on July 25, 2003.  Services will be held at the United Methodist Church, in Ruthven, Wednesday ,July 30.  Rev. Jim Gochenouer will officiate at the 10:30 service. Burial will take place in Crown Hill Cemetery in Ruthven.
          Casket bearers will be;   Todd Miller, Lori Hazelette, Lisa Steigleder, Adam Wilcox, Scott Miller, Marie Bowman, Tracy Finnegan, Aaron Wilcox and Samantha Wilcox.
          Honorary casket bearers will be Rose Anderson and Max Wilcox.
          Paul Lester Wilcox, son of Arthur and Maude Phelps Wilcox ,was born November 9,1916 in Curlew, Ia.
Paul farmed in the Ruthven area from the early 40s until 1973. He then worked for Superior Manufacturing until he retired.
         He was preceded in death by his wife ,Marie, who passed away in August 1971; his parents; five brothers and sisters and a son-in-law.
         He is survived by four children; Pauline Miller of Ayrshire; Darlene Finnegan and her husband, Roger of Eldridge, Ia.; Kevin Wilcox and his wife Ana of Loveland, Colo., Robert Wilcox and his wife Linda of Eldridge; one sister Rose Anderson of Atlantic, one brother Max of Emmetsburg; nine grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; two step grandchildren, many other relatives and friends.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, January 17, 1940

MRS. D.G. GREENE DIES SUDDENLY
Passes Away Suddenly on Wednesday Night at Her Home
Southeast of Town.

    Mrs. D.J. Green passed away very suddenly at her home last Wednesday night from an acute heart attack following an illness of only about a half hour. She had apparently been enjoying good health up to the time of her death.
    Funeral services were held at the Sacred Heart church in Ruthven last Saturday forenoon at 9:30 with Rev. E.L. McEvoy officiating. Father McEvoy delivered a very impressive and consoling sermon using as his text a selection from the Bible which states: "Without faith it is impossible to please God." Mrs. Marian Moses of Emmetsburg sang "Santissimo," as an offering and Adrian Brennan, also of Emmetsburg, sang in the choir. Mary Jean Brennan was organist.
    The pallbearers were: Herbert E. Doyle and P.T. O'Brien of Emmetsburg, J.W. Jones and T.A. Hoben of Ayrshire and Henry Joynt and A.A. Miller of Ruthven.
    Florence Fallon, daughter of Michael and Ellen Fallon, was born in New York state on August 10, 1891, and passed away January 10, 1940. Her parents passed away when she was 4 years of age, and when she was 7 years of age she came to Iowa and made her home with Mr. and Mrs. P.V. Nolan of Emmetsburg, who gave her advantages and comforts that had much bearing on the happiness of her life.
    Graduating from the Emmetsburg high school she took a business course at a college in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Later she took a nurses' course at St. Joseph's hospital in Sioux City, Iowa, graduating in 1915. ...[rest of obit missing]


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, January 17, 1940

HOLLIS V. MYERS FUNERAL MONDAY
Local Resident Dies at Iowa City Saturday 
Following Illness of Several Years

    Funeral services for Hollis Myers were held at the Methodist church in Ruthven last Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock with the pastor, Rev. Belden Weikel, officiating. Rev. Weikel chose as the subject of his funeral sermon, "The Divine Shepherd," and the text was taken from Psalms 23:1, "The Lord is my shepherd." Leslie Sandvig and Osmund Newgard sang "Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross," and Leslie Sandvig sang "Face to Face," and Osmund Newgard sang "Asleep in Jesus," with Mrs. Homer Drennen at the piano.
    The pallbearers were: Homer Lee, Delbert Jondahl, Cyril Berg, Eugene Linden, Everett Roland and Raymond Whitman.
    The following obituary was read at the funeral service at the church:
    Hollis Vern Myers, youngest son of Clyde and Rose Myers, was born in Ruthven, Iowa, August 4, 1906, and passed away at Iowa City, Iowa, January 13, 1940, at the age of 34 years, 5 months and 9 days.
    Hollis spent his childhood years and grew to manhood in Ruthven. He graduated from the Ruthven high school and was baptized in the Ruthven Methodist church. He was a member of the De Molay at Emmetsburg, and for a time belonged to the Odd Fellow lodge.
    After his graduation, he worked in several different business places in Ruthven, and later in Freeport and Prophetstown, Illinois. While at the latter place his health became impaired and complications arose, believed to have resulted from an injury suffered during high school days. For over seven years the battle to regain...[rest of obit missing]


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
10 Oct 1996

Funeral Services for Maxine Heiter were held Wednesday in Spencer.

  SPENCER  --   Maxine L. Heiter of Spencer died Sunday,Oct. 6,1996 at Longhouse Residence in Spencer. She was 73.
    Funeral services for Mrs. Heiter were held Wednesday ,Oct.9,at Grace United Methodist Church in Spencer. Pastor Tim Walker officiated
   Burial was in Riverside cemetery, Spencer . Warner Funeral Home in Spencer was in charge of arrangements.
   Honorary bearers were Jeffrey Heiter, Reinhold Anderson and Don Jensen.
  Casket bearers were Jason Treirweiler, Greg Greene, Mark Burnam, Doug Greene, Michael Heiter and Mark Johnson.
  Maxine Leah ( Wilcox) Heiter was born May 31,1923,in Palo Alto County, Iowa.The daughter of Arthur and Maude (Phelps) Wilcox. She received her education in country schools and later at Enmmetsburg High School.
   On Feb.27,1943, Maxine and Donald M. Heiter were married, in Emmetsburg. The couple moved to Spencer in 1946 and in 1962 they moved to a farm near Spencer. For several years Mrs. Heiter assisted her husband in the operation of Heiter Trucking.
   Mrs Heiter was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church and she was a past member of  the choir. She served as a volunteer at Spencer Hospital and was a member of the Hospital Auxiliary, working in the gift shop. She worked in the Babes program in the Spencer Public Schools. In 1990 Maxine was selected by  the Iowa Department of Health to receive a Governors Volunteer award for outstanding volunteer service.
   Survivors include two sons, Donald Jr.and Linda Heiter of Spencer, and Ronald Heiter of Spencer; two daughters, Mrs Jack ( Barbara)  Greene of Sergeant Bluff and Mrs Michael ( Linda ) Treirweiler of Royal; 16 grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.
  Also surviving are three brothers, Paul Wilcox of Ruthven, James Wilcox of Spencer and Max Wilcox of Emmetsburg.; and a sister Mrs. Reinhold ( Rose ) Anderson of Ruthven.
 Mrs. Heiter was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, on Sept 21,1985; her parents; two sisters, Leone Kauffman and Dorothy Jensen; and a brother Edwin.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
5 Dec 2000

Gary Dean Miller

    A funeral service for Gary Dean Miller,58,of Ayrshire was held Monday, December 4, 2000,10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Ayrshire. The Rev. Ray Stauffer officiated.
   Mr. Miller died at his home in Ayrshire on Thursday,November 30, 2000.  The Martin-Mattice Funeral Home in Ruthven was in charge of arrangements. 
   Pallbearers were Al Grange, Tim Cacek, Al Helmke, Gary Heiman, Jim Schmidt, and Garry Olson. Honorary pallbearers were Charlie Rezabek, Arvin Sidles, Deryll Brodersen, Deryll Swanson, Burness Williams, Rich Berger and Homer Jorgenson. Burial was at Crown Hill Cemetery in Ruthven.
   Gary Dean Miller , the son of Verne and Maurine ( Brallier ) Miller , was born September 2,1942 in Spencer. He received his education at the Ruthven Consolidated School, graduating in 1960. On July 23,1961,he married Pauline Rae Wilcox in Ruthven. He was inducted in the U.S. Navy in 1960 and served three years active duty, and three years in the Naval Reserves, being discharged in 1966. He was employed with Palo Alto County and served on the Ayrshire City Council. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Ayrshire.
  Mr. Miller was preceded in death by his father, his grandparents; his step-father; and two nephews. Survivors include his wife, Pauline; four children Scott Miller and his wife, La Donna of Kasson, Minn., Todd Miller and his wife, Reene, of Milford. Lori Hazelett and her husband, Hugh of Ayrshire and Marie Bowman and her husband, Kurt of Sioux City;  his mother Maurine Willard of Everly; six grandchildren ; one brother, Larry Miller and his wife Norma, of Everly; and two sisters:  Roxie Miller and Rochelle Radley of Tempe, Ariz.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
17 Aug 1971

Marie Wilcox Rites Friday

Ruthven-  Funeral for Mrs. Paul (Marie ) Wilcox, 52, of Casa Grande, Ariz., and formerly of Ruthven, have been tentatively set for 2 p.m. Friday at United Methodist Church of Ruthven.
  The Rev. Harlan Babcock will officiate  Burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery, in Ruthven.
  The body will be returned to Lightle-Hayes Funeral Home in Ruthven late Tuesday afternoon.
  Mrs. Wilcox died at Good Samaritan Hospital early Sunday.
  She was born April 2, 1919 and was married to Paul Wilcox, March 10, 1938 at Rockwell City.
  They farmed in the Palo Alto County area a number of years and have operated a trailer court since moving to Casa Grande.
  Surviving are her widower, Paul, of Casa Grande, two daughters, Mrs Gary ( Pauline ) Miller of Ruthven and Mrs.Roger ( Darlene) Finnegan of Iowa City ; two sons, Kevin and Bobby ,both at home and five grandchildren.
  Also surviving are her mother, Mrs. Hazel Miller of Manson; a brother, Joseph Miller of South Gate, Calif.; and a sister, Mrs. Alvin Haroldson of Fort Dodge.
  Lightle-Hayes Funeral Home of Ruthven is in charge of arrangements.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Marion Sentinel
Marion, Linn, Iowa
Thursday, 12 May 1981 

    Dorothy J. Jensen

     Dorothy J. Jensen, 53, of 640 Grand Ave., Marion, a 20 year resident of Marion, formerly of West Bend, Ia., died yesterday (May 11) at a local hospital following a short illness.
     Dorothy Jean Jensen ,daughter of Arthur and Maude (Phelps) Wilcox was born Sept. 16, 1927 in Curlew, Ia. She was married to Donald L. Jensen on Feb. 16, 1948 in Emmetsburg.
     Surviving in addition to her husband are six sons, Roger Jensen of Cedar Rapids, Melvin Jensen of Marion, Rodney Jensen of Dallas, Tex., Steven Jensen of Marion, Terry Jensen of Fayetteville, N.C. and Tony Jensen of Cedar Rapids; her mother, Maude Wilcox of Rolfe; three sisters, Maxine Heiter of Spencer, Leone Kauffman of Emmetsburg, Rose Anderson of Ruthven; three brothers, Max Wilcox of Emmetsburg, Paul Wilcox of Ruthven, and James Wilcox of Spencer and eight grandchildren.
     Memorial services were held Friday at 1 p.m. in the First United Presbyterian church in Marion with the Rev. Jay Miller officiating. Burial was in Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.  Friends may, if they wish, donate to the First United Presbyterian Church in Marion.  Arrangements made by Cedar Memorial Funeral Home.

Gladys R.Wilcox
grwilcox@mchsi.com
  


Mallard Leader
Mallard, Palo Alto, Iowa
Thursday, March 7, 1946

FRANK J. PROCHASKA

Burial Rites Held At Irving, Iowa

   The earthly pilgrimage of Frank J. Prochaska came to a close as he quietly breathed his last Sunday evening at the home of his son Leo. His health had not been the best for some time and when he fell victim to a cold his weakened condition could not cope with the effects of the disease.
   Mr. Prochaska was born January 24,1866 in Wisconsin. He was married to Miss Mary Shanda at Elberon, Tama Co., Iowa on October 6, 1891. Several years later the family came to this community where he farmed until 1918, when he moved to town where he found employment. His wife passed away in 1912. For a number of years he had made his home with his son Leo and family. He was 80 years old last January.
   Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Agnes Baldwin of Waterloo and Mrs. Edith Stratton of Algona; five sons, Charles and Leo of Mallard, Ben of Lewiston, Ill., Fred of Barrington, Ill., and Elmer of Fort Dodge, Two sisters, Mrs. Agnes Houlihan of Waterloo and Anna Prochaska of Monroe, Washington; five brothers, James of Ayrshire, Lewis of Algona, Joe of Clare, Rob of Waterloo and Ed, of Irving; also fifteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
   Funeral services were held at the Leo Prochaska home Wednesday morning with Rev. Russell Hart in charge, after which the remains were taken to Irving, Iowa, where the body was laid to rest by the side of his wife.

Kathleen Frailey Puls
kathleenpuls@comcast.net


Ruthven Free Press
Ruthven, Palo Alto, Iowa
Wednesday, Nov. 28, 1922

OBITUARY OF MISS MARY HELEN CURRANS
Funeral Services Were Held Here on Thursday Morning, November 2

     Last Tuesday this community was saddened by the death of Miss Mary Helen Currans, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Currans, who live southeast of this city. Death was due to pneumonia and the girl was only sick four days.
    Mary Helen Currans was born in Highland Township, August 17, 1905, and died at the home of her parents on Tuesday, October 31, 1922.
    She finished the grade school and entered St. Mary's Academy at Emmetsburg this fall, where she was very greatly loved and admired by teachers and students alike. She was a bright and happy girl, and was ever attentive at whatever task she was given. She will be greatly missed.
    Miss Currans is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Currans, and two sisters, Kathleen and Florence.
    The funeral services were held on Thursday morning at 10 o'clock at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of this city, with Rev. Clark in charge. Interment was made in the Catholic Cemetery.
     Those attending the funeral from a distance were Mr. and Mrs. Murphy, Mrs. Eaton, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Clare from Graettinger, Miss Ruth Currans from Marshaltown, Mr. and Mrs. P.J. Clare, Mrs. Martha Clare of Spencer, Mr. and Mrs. C. Clare, Mrs. Alice Currans, Mrs. Callahan, Miss Mary Clare, E.T. Clare, Miss Alice Donahue, Mr and Mrs. Thos. Burns of Emmetsburg.
    We join with the many friends of the bereaved family in extending sincere sympathy in their hour of sorrow.