Columbus Tribune-Journal, January 1, 1913
MARRIAGE LICENSES
Judge Ratterman has issued marriage licenses to five couples during the past seven days. The recipients were Nick Van Dyke and Miss Ida G. German, of Humphrey; Jacob H. Gerber and Miss Emma Guter, of Duncan; William Head and Miss Jessie B. Davis, of Monroe; Gustav E. Doerck, of Lincoln, and Miss Nellie May Bray, of Columbus; Harry L. Tripp, of Paxton, and Miss Mary E. Williams, of Albion. Mr. Head and Miss Davis were married by the judge Tuesday.MARRIED
LANGLEY-CUNNINGHAM--Mr. and Mrs. Martin Langley, Mrs. Odelia Patsch and daughter, Miss Elizabeth Patsch, went to Omaha Christmas morning, where at high noon they attended the wedding of John Langley to Miss Ann Cunningham. The wedding ceremony was solemnized at St. Patrick's cathedral, Rev. Father Smith spoke the words that made this estimable couple husband and wife. The church was beautifully decorated with white roses and Christmas holly. The bride was beautiful in a gown of white crepe de chene draped over white messaline and trimmed in shadow lace. She wore a white picture hat and carried a bouquet of bride's roses. She was attended by her aunt, Miss Helen Kavanaugh. The groom was attended by James Cunningham, brother of the bride. Only a few immediate relatives of the contracting parties witnessed the ceremony. Immediately after the wedding vows had been spoken the bridal party was invited to the Cunningham home, where a wedding dinner was served. Both Mr. and Mrs. Langley are well known in this city as they formerly resided here. Mrs. Langley is the daughter of Mrs. Peter Cunningham and is a young lady held in high esteem by all who know her. The groom is the son of Mrs. Odelia Patsch and at one time was in the employ of the Speice-Bower company. Later he resigned this position and went to Grand Island, where he lived for a short time, then deciding to locate in Omaha. He is now employed as operator in the Union Pacific headquarters building. Christmas night Mr. and Mrs. Langley left for a honeymoon tirp to New York, Chicago and Wheaton, Illinois. Beside the out-of-town guests already mentioned Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Nissley of Wymore were also present.DIED
HENDERSON--Mrs. Catherine Henderson, mother of Mrs. R.P. Drake of this city, died Sunday morning, December 22, 1912, at the home of her daughter, where she had made her home for the last sixteen years. The cause of her death was due to old age, having reached the ripe age of 85 years, 7 months and 2 days. The final summons came with but little warning, as her recent serious illness was but of a few days duration. She has been more or less of an invalid for the past twelve years, part of which time her illness has confined her to her home. Mrs. Henderson's maiden name was Catherine Riley Conwell, a native of the state of Delaware. She was married to John Henderson on May 30, 1847, at Laurel, Indiana, with whom she lived for nearly half a century, until his death at Humphrey in 1895. This marriage was blessed with four children, three daughters and one son. The son and one daughter dying in infancy. The remaining two daughters are Mrs. Belle Kaufman of Cozad, Neb., and Mrs. Florence Drake of this place, both of whom were with her at the close. She leaves one sister, Mrs. W.L. Day of Laurel, Indiana. The funeral services were held at the residence Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock, Rev. Boelter officiating. Followed by the old friends and neighbors the remains were escorted to the cemetery and three placed in their last resting place by the side of her husband. [Humphrey.]BORDY--Mrs. S. Bordy died at the hospital early last Thursday morning after an illness of about a year with dropsy. She was born in Russia forty-five years ago, and came to this country when a young lady. She was a sister of Samuel Kavich, and is survived by her husband, four sons and three daughters, besides her mother, who lives in Omaha, one brother and one sister in Omaha and two brothers in Fremont. The body was shipped to Omaha Thursday, and interment was made the following day in the Jewish cemetery there.
LARSON--Mrs. Andrew Larson died at her home in this city last Friday night of neuralgia of the heart, aged 76 years, 7 months and 3 days. Funeral services were held at the Swedish-Methodist church Sunday morning. Interment was in the West Hill cemetery. Mrs. Larson is survived by her husband who was taken sick several days before her death and was unable to attend the funeral. His recovery is considered doubtful owing to his advanced age. [Genoa.]
Columbus Tribune-Journal, January 8, 1913
MARRIED
SPEICHER-GROVES--William R. Speicher and Miss Elizabeth A. Groves, both of this city, were married at St. Bonaventure's church Tuesday morning. Rev. Fr. Cyriac pronounced the words that joined for life this happy couple. The groom is the second son of Mr. and Mrs. M. Speicher and for the past year has been in the employ of the Neater & Buschman meat market. He is a young man of exemplary habits and is well known in this city. The bride is the daughter of Mr. A. Groves and is a young lady held in high esteem by all who know her. In the shower of congratulations that are now falling the Tribune-Journal takes pleasure in contributing. May their married life be filled with joy and happiness. Mr. and Mrs. Speicher have gone to housekeeping in a cottage on north Olive street, which the groom has recently furnished for their occupancy.DOERCK-BRAY--A pretty home wedding was solemnized at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lyman Bray, three miles west of this city at eleven-thirty o'clock New Year's day, when their daughter, Miss Nellie M., was led to the matrimonial altar by Gustav EE. Doerck, of Lincoln. Rev. C.W. Ray, pastor of the Methodist church of this city, spoke the words that made this estimable couple husband and wife. The wedding ceremony was witnessed by only a few relatives and intimate friends. Immediately after the ceremony a wedding dinner was served. Mr. and Mrs. Doerck left on an afternoon train for a honeymoon trip to Omaha, Kansas-City, Missouri, and Denver, Colorado, after which they will return to this city and will reside in a residence on west Sixteenth street, which the groom has already prepared for their occupancy. The bride is a charming young lady and by her pleasing manner has won many friends who will join the Tribune-Journal in wishing her and her husband much joy and happiness as they tread life's pathway. Mr. Doerck is a traveling salesman for a Lincoln hardware firm. The out-of-town guests at the wedding were Mrs. Doerck, of Beatrice, mother of the groom, and Mrs. Sadie Harlan and daughter, of Lincoln.
DIED
DISCHNER--Joseph E. Dischner died very suddenly at his home in the city about noon Saturday. A friend who had seen him shortly before his death, when Mr. Dischner had remarked that he was tired and would lie down to rest. The friend met a physician and reported to him that he believed Mr. Dischner was not well. When the physician called, within an hour after the friend had left the house, and found Mr. Dischner dead in his bed. He was born in Indiana, August 28, 1872, and came to Platte county with his parents a few years later, and had since made his home here. Sixteen years ago he was married to Miss Mary Liebig, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Liebig, living near Platte Center, who, with two sons and three daughters, survives him. He also leaves three brothers, John and Peter Dischner, of this community and Frank Dischner, of O'Neill. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at St. Bonaventure's church, and interment was made in the parish cemetery.NELSON--Hazel, fifteen-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Nelson, of Genoa, died Saturday, following a long illness with dropsy. Several years ago, the young lady became afflicted with an attack of St. Vitus dance, and later had three attacks of pneumonia within one year. This left her system in such a debilitated condition that when the dropsy developed, she was unable to combat the disease. The grief-stricken parents passed through the city Monday with the body on their way to Stanton, Iowa, where she was laid to rest.
WAGNER--Another of the pioneer residents of Platte county was called to his long rest with the death of John Wagner, which took place at the hospital Tuesday morning. Mr. Wagner was born in Bavaria, September 24, 1837. January 1, 1863, he was married to Miss Kunie Iridacher, and two years later emigrated to this country, settling in Minnesota, where they lived for three years before coming to Nebraska and settling in Cuming county, near West Point, where for a number of years he was a prominent citizen. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wagner, of whom five, Joseph Wagner, of Outlook, Washington, George Wagner, of Pullman, Washington; August Wagner, of Columbus; William Wagner, of Kalamath Falls, Oregon, and Mrs. Ira Elliott, of this city, together with their mother survive him. He had been in poor health for some time, and for several months past had been a patient at the hospital. The funeral will be held Thursday morning from the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ira Elliott, with services at St. Bonaventure's church, and interment will be made in the Catholic cemetery.
Columbus Tribune-Journal, January 15, 1913
BIRTHS
HEMPELMAN--A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hempelman Tuesday morning.SIEBLER--Born to Mr. and Mrs. Leopold Siebler, January 4, a daughter.--Platte Center Signal.
MOTTLES--The stork arrived last Sunday, Jan. 5, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Mottles and left them a fine baby boy. The first boy in the family of four girls.--Platte Center Signal.
MEYER--Born to Mr. and Mrs. William Meyer Monday, January 13, a son--Platte Center.
MARRIAGE BANS
The bans of marriage was announced last Sunday for the first time of the approaching marriage of Lewis Witts and Miss Rose Dress. The wedding ceremony will be celebrated January 29.MARRIAGE LICENSES
The following marriage licenses were issued by County Judge Ratterman this week: John Labeng and Miss Thresia Hastreiter, both of Humphrey, John Podlc, of Sherman county, and Miss Tillie M. Semlock, of Platte county; Barney G. Pokorski, of South Omaha, and Miss Josephine Mitera, of Columbus; Louis Godowski and Miss Sophie Pytel, both of Tarnov; Anton Klamth, of Chicago, and Miss Anna I. Mortensen, of Columbus; Otto J. Rudat, of Columbus, and Miss Anna Zybach, of Richland; Martin Mohr, jr., and Miss Muril L. Davis, both of Monroe; John Paspera, of Lindsay, and Miss Frances Melcher, of Cornlea; Robert E. Van Allen, of Monroe, and Miss Margaret S. Siebral, of Evansville, Indiana; Soren C. Thompson, of Maxwell, and Miss Dot Stone, of Omaha, and Chris H. Ahlers and Miss Ida E. Bohr, both of Albion. The three last named couples were married by County Judge Ratterman.MARRIED
KLAMTH-MORTENSEN--At 12:30 o'clock today Rev. C.W. Ray, pastor of the Methodist church of this city spoke the words that joined for life Dr. Anton Klamth, of Chicago, Illinois, and Miss Anna I. Mortensen, one of Platte County's popular school teachers. The wedding ceremony was witnessed by the bride's sister, Miss Mortensen. Until the holidays Miss Mortensen's name appeared on the roll of Platte county's most proficient rural instructors, but at this time she resigned her position. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mortensen, who reside on a farm, thirteen miles south of this city. She is a young lady held in high esteem by all who know her and has been very popular, not only in society, but in church work as well. She has a host of friends who will join the Tribune-Journal in extending to her and her husband much joy and happiness as they trod life's pathway. Immediately after the ceremony Dr. and Mrs. Klamth left for their future home in Chicago, Illinois, where the doctor is a practicing physician.DIED
VAN IERWEIN--Chris Van Ierwein, aged eighty-two years, an old resident of Island precinct, Polk county, southwest of Duncan, died this morning at his home. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.VARLEY--John Varley, of Schuyler, died at the hospital Friday, from an attack of dropsy. Mr. Varley was eighty-five years of age at the time of his death. The remains were shipped to Schuyler where the funeral was held.
BAHLBERG--Peter Bahlberg, an early settler of Platate [sic] county, died at his home Wednesday morning. Mr. Bahlberg was born in Province Hannover, Germany, the eighteenth of January, 1841, and was at the time of his death seventy-one years, elenven [sic] months and twenty days old. He was married in 1868. His wife was been deceased for about a year. Mr. Bahlberg came to this country in 1883 and has resided on his farm ever since. The surviving relativies [sic] are Mrs. Siegfken, Mrs. Herman Hellbusch, Mrs. Detrich Siegfken and Miss Josie Siegfken and his sister, Miss Dorothy Bahlberg. Funeral services were held at one o'clock Saturday afternoon. Rev. E. Holm conducting the services and interment was made in the St. John's cemetery. The pallbearers were, Mr. Carl Muth, Henry Wilken, John Rosche, Adolph Marty, Henry Inselman, and Gerhard Rosche.
HODGE--Early Monday morning, John, aged 18 months, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. John Hodge, passed away after a struggle of three weeks to ward off the grim destroyer. For one so young the child displayed wonderful vitality, and after passing through a severe attack of pneumonia hopes were entertained of his recovery, but other complications set in, and the frail body, weakened by a battle for life, succumbed.
Funeral services were held at the family home Tuesday afternoon.--Genoa Times.FURBY--G.J. Furby, an old and respected citizen, died at his home in the south part of the city Sunday morning after an illess of several weeks. Mr. Furby resided in Genoa and vicinity for more than twenty years. He was a good citizen and neighbor and had the respect of all who knew him. Funeral services were held Tuesday. Interment was in the West Hill cemetery.--Genoa Times.
O'DANIELS--Mrs. Geo. Kilton received a message Tuesday announcing that her son, Cal. O'Daniels, had been killed in a railroad wreck out west somewhere. No particulars have been received. He was an engineer on a road in some of the northwestern states, and was well known to many of our olders [sic] citizens, as he was born and raised here.
LANE--Mrs. R.D. Lane passed away at the home of her sister, Mrs. C.L. Earheart on west Thirteenth street, this morning at 9:30 o'clock. Death was due to a complication of diseases. Mrs. Lane came to this city about six weeks ago for a visit with Columbus relatives and while here was taken seriously ill. From the first her condition was considered very serious and owing to her advanced age little hope was entertained for her recovery. Mrs. Lane formerly resided in Grand Island with her daughter, Mrs. Jennie Gillian, who was with her mother when the end came. The funeral services will be held at the home of Mrs. C.L. Earheart Friday afternoon at two o'clock and will be conducted by Rev. C.W. Ray, pastor of the Methodist church. Burial will he [sic] had in the Columbus cemetery.
Columbus Tribune-Journal, January 22, 1913
MARRIAGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock at St. Francis church will occur the marriage of Miss Theresia Hastreiter to John Labenz, and on Tuesday, January 28th, at St. Mary's will occur the marriage of Miss Juliana Zach, of that community, and George Hasenstab of Alliance. Mr. Hasenstab a few years ago resided in Humphrey.--The Humphrey Democrat.MARRIED
RUDAT-ZYBACH--A very pretty wedding took place at the farm residence of Mr. and Mrs. Julius Rudat, sr., who reside five miles southwest of this city, last Thursday at high noon, when their son, Otto Rudat, lead Miss Anna Zybach to the matrimonial altar. Rev. R. Neumarker, pastor of the German Reformed church of this city, spoke the words that made this estimable couple husband and wife. The wedding ceremony was witnessed by only a few relatives and intimate friends of the contracting parties. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Anna Zybach and most if not all of her life has been spent on a farm, ten miles northeast of Columbus. She is an accomplished young lady and her friends are numbered by her acquaintances. She was attended during the wedding ceremony by the groom's sister, Miss Louise Rudat and Miss Anna Ernst, while the groom was attended by the bride's two brothers, John and Casper Zybach. Immediately after the ceremony a wedding dinner was served. Mr. and Mrs. Rudat have already gone to housekeeping on the Rudat farm, five miles southwest of Columbus. In the shower of congratulations that are now falling the Tribune Journal takes pleasure in extending to Mr. Rudat and his bride their well wishes for a long and happy married life. Mr. Rudat is a brother of Frank Rudat, one of the leading business men of our city.BRANDL-FROUENDERFOR--Miss Mary Frouenderfor and Frank J. Brandl were united in marriage at St. Francis' Catholic church in this city at nine o'clock on Tuesday morning. Miss Annie Frouenderfor, sister of the bride, and Miss Mary Brandl, sister of the groom, were bridesmaids, and Geo. Brandl, brother of the groom, and Ed. Frouenderfor, brother of the bride, were groomsmen. After the marriage ceremony a wedding reception was given in honor of the newly married couple at the home of the bride's parents. The bride is the accomplished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Fouenderfor [sic], who live northeast of town, and is deservingly popular with a large circle of friends. Like the bride, the groom scarcely needs an introduction. Everybody knows him to be a popular young farmer and recognizes in him a man of splendid citizenship, high integrity and the most sterling worth. In the evening a wedding dance was given in Gilsdorf's hall in honor of the hapy [sic] coople [sic] at which a large number of their friends and relatives were present. Mr. and Mrs. Brandl will immediately go too [sic] housekeeping on the groom's farm near Cornlea. The Democrat offers congratulations, and the most earnest hopes that happiness, peace and prosperity may constantly attend them throughout life's journey.--The Humphrey Democrat.
DIED
DUSCH--Mary Dusch, the thirteen-months' old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Dusch, of Duncan, died suddenly Monday, following a brief attack of cramps. The little one was ill but thirty minutes. The funeral was held from the Polish church at Duncan Wednesday.HAMER--Charles Hamer, a pioneer resident of this city passed away at his home on North street about four o'clock Friday morning, death was due to an illness from which he had suffered for many years. Mr. Hamer was born in Wales in the year 1830, and was at the time of his death in his eighty-third year. He came to America when a young man and settled in Platte county. Later he became a resident of Columbus, where for several years he followed his trade as a carpenter. He was one of the workmen that constructed the present court house of Platte county, which was built over forty years ago. Mr. Hamer was married in 1869 and soon after his marriage he and his wife took a homestead near the village of Monroe, where they lived until Mr. Hamer's health began to fail they then decided to return to this city, where they would be near medical assistance, and purchased a residence on North street, which has since been their home. Mr. Hamer was a kind and conscientious man and in his declining years, on account of his ill health, was confined almost continuously to his home. Beside his aged wife he is survived by one son, who lives in Toledo, Ohio, and was present at the funeral, which was held Monday afternoon at two-thirty o'clock from the family residence. Rev. G. A. Munro, pastor of the Congregational church of this city conducted the services and burial was had in the Columbus cemetery.
NEVELS--Following a long illness, the last twenty-two weeks of which she spent in St. Mary's hospital, Mrs. James Nevels died early Tuesday morning. Mr. and Mrs. Nevels lived in Columbus from 1902 to 1907, during which time Mr. Nevels was in business here. The remains were shipped to Albion Tuesday afternoon for burial. She is survived by her husband, one son and one daughter, and one sister, who lives in Boone county.
Columbus Tribune-Journal, January 29, 1913
MARRIED
PODIS-SEMLOCK--The marriage of Mr. John Podis, of Loup City, and MIss Tillie Semlock, of this place, was solemnized at 9 o'clock __esday morning at St. Michael's Church, Tarnov. Rev. Father Dennis offiating. A wedding reception was held at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Semlock. The young couple will make their home on a farm near Loup City. [Platte Center.]FLAHERTY-LIERNAN--The marriage vows between Miss __e Kiernan and William Flaherty were solemnized Tuesday morning at the Catholic church in St. Edward. The bride is the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kiernan, prominent for years in West Hill neighborhood, in this county. The groom is a properous young farmer of Nance county. [Platte Center.]
MIMECK-SMAGACZ--John Mimeck and Miss Mary Smagacz, both of this city, were married this morning. The wedding ceremony took place at the Catholic church, and Rev. Father Cyriac read the marriage lines. Both the bride and groom are well known as Columbus has been their home for many years. The bride is an accomplished young lady and enjoys the friendship of a large circle of friends. The groom is a young man of exemplary habits and is held in high esteem by all who know him. In the shower of congratulations that are now falling the Tribune-Journal takes pleasure in contributing. May their wedded life be filled with happiness.
BRIGG-GEROY--The wedding of Joseph Brigg and Miss Mary Geroy was solemnized Monday morning at the Catholic church. Rev. Father Cyriac performed the wedding ceremony, which was witnessed by only a few relatives and friends of the contracting parties. Immdiately [sic] after the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Brigg left for Oregon, where they will make their future home.
MOHR-DAVIS--Wednesday of this week, at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Davis, northwest of Monroe, the wedding of Martin Mohr, jr., and Miss Muriel Davis was solemnized Rev. Fundlach of the St. Bernard German Lutheran church performing the ceremony. Only relatives of the contracting parties were present and after the ceremony a wedding repast was served.--Monroe Republican.
BRAUNER-HAUK--Miss Anna Hauk and Mr. Alois Brauner were united in marriage Wednesday morning at St. Peter's church in Bellwood, Rev. R.L. Bickert, pastor of the church officiating. The new bride is sister to Mr. Emil Zimmer of Alexis, where the wedding dinner was served by Mrs. Zimmer. The groom is from Leigh, where he is engaged in farming. In the old country he was one of Mr. Zimmer's schoolmates.--Bellwood.
LABENZ-HASTREITER--Miss Thresia Hastrieter and John Labenz were united in marriage at St. Francis church on Tuesday morning of this week at a nuptial mass held at nine o'clock, Rev. Father Kurzer officiating. The bride is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Hastreiter. She was raised in this community and has a large circle of admiring friends. The groom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Labenz, who reside northeast of town, and he is known to be an industrious and worthy young man. The young couple will immediately go to housekeeping on a farm northwest of town.
DIED
EILERS--The home of Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Eilers was gladdened last Thursday by the arrival of a baby daughter, but the __ was soon turned to sorrow as the angel of death claimed it as its own. __ was laid to rest Thursday afternoon in the cemetery west of town. [Platte Center.]HEIBEL--Death in a tragic form came to Louis Heibel Tuesday forenoon on the farm of his father, John Heibel, ten miles northeast of Columbus. He and his brothers were out in the field chopping down trees. Louis, who was somewhat deaf, was working a short distance from where the others were cutting a tree. The tree fell in the opposite direction to the one it was intended that it should, and fell on him, bearing him down and breaking his back. On account of his affliction he did not hear the falling tree or the call of his brothers. He was picked up and carried to the house of a neighbor, where he died within a half hour after the accident. He was born in this county, October 27, 1872, and had lived here all his life. He leaves, besides his aged parents, two brothers, John and Otto Heibel, and eight sisters, Mrs. Adolph Kluck, Mrs. John Saalfeld, Mrs. Henry Hoppe, Mrs. Robert Steppatt, and Misses Minnie, Elma, Elvina and Bertha Heibel. Funeral services will be held from the home, Friday at noon, following services will be held at the Shell Creek Lutheran church, and interment will be made in the cemetery adjacent.
BURKE--Mrs. Nellie J. Dineen Burke passed away peacefully from the cares of this world, at the family residence, at 215 west Tenth street on Friday evening, January 24, at 3:50.
She leaves to mourn her loss her husband, Mark Burke, and one little son, Mark, jr., eight years old, one brother, J.F. Dineen, of Columbus, and three sisters, Mrs. F.T. Walker, of Omaha; Mrs. J.T. Flynn, of Norfolk, and Mrs. D.V. Mackin, of Platte Center, besides many other relatives and friends.
The funeral was held at St. Bonaventure's church Monday forenoon, when requiem mass was said for the repose of her soul. Interment was made in the Catholic cemetery.
Nellie J. Dineen was born on the family homestead, six miles north of Columbus, October 23, 1871. Here her early life was spent, and her home was made until she moved to Columbus with her mother in 1890. Later she made her home with her sister, Mrs. F.T. Walker, until her marriage to Mr. Burke, which took place at St. Bonaventure's church, on January 21, 1902.
Mrs. Burke's last illness dated from November 22, 1912, although she had been in poor health for several years. It was thought that she was recovering until a week before she died, when she lapsed into unconsciousness, from which she revived on the day before the end came, long enough to receive the last rites of her church and to speak to her relatives and friends.
At the home the floral offerings in beauty and variety were banked about the casket. The St. Anne society, of which she was a member, attended the services in a body.
Mrs. Burke was the youngest member of the family of Michael Dineen, one of the pioneer families of Platte county.
The following relatives came from a distance: Mrs. F.T. Walker, son, Francis, and daughters, Margaret and Mildred; Daniel and Jerry Lenahan, Mrs. T.E. Gerin, Mrs. Mary Clark, and daughter, Margaret, and Mr. H.W. Kidder, of Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Flynn and daughter, Agnes, of Norfolk; Mr. and Mrs. D.V. Mackin, and daughter, Bessie; William and Vincent Mackin, and Mr. and Mrs. M.E. Cooney, of Platte Center; Mrs. Joseph Schaffer, of Alliance; Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Dineen, of Madison; Misses Katie and May Cavanaugh, of Dennison, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. H.L. Martson, of Friend, and Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Burke, and daughter, Margaret, of Martland, and a number of others.BYERS--Baby Donald Perry Byers, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Byers, born October 1, 1912, died January 21, 1913, aged 3 months and 21 days, at the home of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. F.C. Judevine.--Bellwood.
LOHAUS--Mrs. Marie Lohaus died last Monday evening at the home of her son, Barney, at about half past six, after an illness which had lasted only a week. The immediate cause of her death was a weak heart. Mrs. Lohaus was in the seventy-seventh year of her age, having been born in Wuellen, kreis Ahaus, Muenster, Westphalia, Germany, on March 3, 1836. In the year 1864, as Marie Elpers she was united in marriage to Henry Lohaus, who preceded her to "The Great Beyond" March 2, 1906, and they immediately embarked for America. Arriving in this county they settled at Baltimore, where they resided for three years. Getting tired of city life they started to find themselves a home on the broad prairies of this great country, and settled down on a farm near the town of Ossian, Iowa. After residing here for ten years they came to Nebraska and settled on the farm now occupied by her son, Barney. She had resided on the old homestead for thirty-seven years. Mrs. Lohaus was the mother of six children, two boys and four girls. Two of the girls are dead. Those living and left to mourn her are her sons, Fred and Barney, and her daughters, Mrs. Aug. Widhalm and Mrs. Max Schuele. Impressive funeral services were held at St. Francis' church Friday morning at nine o'clock after which all that was mortal of this grand old mother in Isreal was tenderly conveyed to our Silent City, where, by the side of a devoted husband she now rests in peace.
MACKEY--George Mackey, who was called to __ Marie, Mo., last week by the severe illness of his mother, writes to family this his mother passed away on Saturday, death being caused by __main poisoning from canned sardines. Mrs. Mackey visited here two years ago, and made many friends during her stay.--Platte Center Signal.
The Columbus Telegram, January 31, 1913
DIED
ODENTHAL--Complications incident to advanced age caused the death of Peter J. Odenthal, a well known resident of Columbus, last Friday evening. Mr. Odenthal was a native of Germany where he was born nearly 88 years ago. As a young man he came to America, locating first at Sterling, Ill. There his wife passed away 31 years ago. Seven years later he came to Nebraska to make his home with his daughter, Mrs. Greisen, and her husband, who resided near Humphrey. He has made his home with them since that time. Mr. Odenthal leaves two sons, William and Joseph, both of whom reside in Illinois, and two daughters, Mrs. Phillip Greisen, of Columbus, and Mrs. Theodore Ripp, who resides in Oregon. Among his grandchildren are Theodore Odenthal, and Mrs. W. J. Walters, of Columbus. Funeral services were held at the Catholic church Monday at 9 a.m.
The Columbus Tribune-Journal, February 19, 1913
DIED
BODMER--Mrs. Carolina Bodmer, widow of the late Jacob Bodmer, died at her home on Washington avenue Friday, following an illness of a month from complications incident to advanced age. She was born in Switzerland, in 1825, and at the time of her death had reached the ripe age of eighty-five years, five months and five days. In 1868, she came to this country with her family, and settling on a homestead in Grand Prairie township. Later the family moved to Oconee, where Mr. Bodmer died in October, 1904. Two years ago she moved to Columbus, and made her home with her daughter, Miss Eliza Bodmer. She is survived by two sons, R. P. Bodmer, of Columbus, and Alfred Bodmer, of Creston, and two daughters, Mrs. W. D. Wilson and Miss Eliza Bodmer, of this city, all of whom were here to attend the funeral. Her son, R. P. Bodmer, was spending the winter in California when news reached him of her serious illness, and arrived home Saturday evening, too late to see his mother alive. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, Rev. C. C. Harms, of the German M. E. church, conducting the services, and interment was made in the Columbus cemetery.
The Columbus Telegram, February 21, 1913
DIED
BODMER--A pioneer of Platte county passed away last Friday evening at 5 o'clock when death came to Mrs. Caroline Bodmer at her home, corner Tenth and Washington avenue. Death was due to complications incident to old age. Mrs. Bodmer was a native of Switzerland, where she was born in 1825. She came to America with her husband in 1868, locating first in Minnesota. In 1872 they took advantage of the opportunities offered in the west and came to Nebraska, taking a homestead in Grand Prairie township. Nineteen years ago they moved to Oconee, where Mr. Bodmer passed away about eight years ago. Mrs. Bodmer made her home in Columbus for the two years preceding her death. She leaves two sons, R. P. Bodmer, and Alfred Bodmer; and two daughters, Mrs. W. D. Wilson and Eliza Bodmer. Funeral services were held Monday at 2 p.m. at the German Methodist church, Rev. C. C. Harms officiating.BROWN--Samuel P. Brown, a resident of Columbus and vicinity for the last two years, died at the hospital Thursday morning about 4 o'clock after a brief illness. Brown was taken ill at his room in the Pacific hotel. Wednesday his condition became such that he was hurried to the hospital. He was born in Iowa, and the remains were shipped Thursday afternoon to Glenwood for burial. J.C. Pelham, of Dawson, Neb., came to Columbus Thursday forenoon to take charge of the body. Brown was about 50 years of age and was unmarried. He worked on farms in the vicinity of Columbus during the summer and spent the winter months at the Pacific hotel. He had no relatives here.
GERTSCH--Following a serious operation for an affliction of long standing Mrs. Paul Gertsch, of Monroe, passed away at the St. Mary's hospital last Saturday morning at 9 o'clock. During the last years of her life she suffered much pain. Last summer she was dangerously ill and hopes for her recovery were at times almost shattered, but she rallied somewhat. Later it became evident that the only hopes of recovery for her lay in a serious operation. This she underwent in the hospital Wednesday of last week. At first she seemed to rally, but Friday her condition took a turn and death came a few hours later. Elizabeth Von Bergen Gertsch was born March 2, 1858, in Meiringen, Switzerland. At 15 years of age she came with her parents to America. On January 28, 1878, she was married to Paul Gertsch, and they settled on the farm which was to be their home till her death. Early in life, Mrs. Gertsch accepted Christ as her pilot and she remained a faithful Christian to the last. She was ever a loving wife, a kind mother and a sympathetic friend. She filled the home with the loving-kindess of the ideal mother. Mrs. Gertch leaves a family of eleven children, four sons and seven daughters. Besides her children she leaves to mourn her death a devoted husband and four brothers. Funeral services were held at the O'Kay church, February 18, and interment was made in the O'Kay cemetery. Rev. William Noerenberg, of Madison, Rev. Stauss, of Ithica, and Rev. Starr, of Monroe, had charge of the services.
CLOSSON--At the advanced age of eighty years, Mrs. Myra Closson died last Sunday at the home of her son, H.L. Closson, north Platte street. Her death was due primarily to a shock to her enfeebled constitution resulting from a fall at the Closson home a week or so ago. The funeral was held at the home Tuesday afternoon, the service being conducted by Rev. G.F. Williams, pastor of the Presbyterian church. The body was shipped to Exeter for burial. Mrs. Closson was a native of Pennsylvania, the date of her birth being March 4, 1833. In 1850, in Illinois, she was married to E.M. Closson. The family came to Nebraska in 1872, and for many years resided on a farm in Seward county. Mr. Closson died in 1896. The surviving members of the household are five sons and one daughter.
The Columbus Telegram, March 3, 1913
DIED
THOMPSON--A home stricken will illness and grief is that of William Thompson, 9 miles south of Columbus. Father, mther [sic] and children have all been confined to the house with sickness at the same time. Last Monday morning the angel of death passed the portals of the home and marked for its own the youngest member of the family, Percy, the little eight months old baby. Just a week before, the child was taken down with pneumonia. The frail little body was not strong enough to withstand the ravages of the dread disease. They buried the little tot Tuesday morning. Funeral services were held at the home at 11 a.m. and interment was made in the Bellwood cemetery. Rev. C.W. Ray, of Columbus, conducted the service. Mrs. Thompson arose from a sickben [sic] to go to the cemetery with Mr. Thompson, himself only recently recovered from a severe illness. The other members of the family, four chilren, were so ill that they were not permitted to go with the funeral procession to the final resting place of their little brother.THOMAZIN--
Death of Mrs. Thomas Thomazin.
At the advanced age of 84 years, 4 months, and 5 days, Mary Ann Thomazin, relict of the late Thomas Thomazin, departed this life last Monday morning, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A.H. Backhaus, in Pierce, Nebraska.
Mary Ann Roberts was born in Holbeach, Lincolnshire, England, on the 29th of October, 1829. May 15, 1844, she was united in marriage with Mr. Thomas Thomazin, and that marriage relation was continued for half a century until the death of her husband, about twenty years ago. In 1865 she emigrated with her husband to America, locating at first in Illinois, and in 1871 came to Nebraska, being numbered among the pioneer settlers in the northwestern part of Platte county. Here she resided until 1904, when she went to Pierce, Neb., and since that date had made her home in that city with her daughter, Mrs. A.H. Backhaus, wife of the editor of the Pierce Leader. The surviving members of her house are four sons and two daughters: J.R. Thomazin, of University Place, Neb.; Thomas Thomazin, of Loretto, Neb.; William and Watson Thomazin, of Lindsay, Neb.; Mrs. Simon Burrows, of Albion, Neb.; and Mrs. A.H. Backhaus, of Pierce, Neb. In childhood Mrs. Thomazin became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and died in that communion. Her good influence is stamped upon the community in which she lived so long, and to that community she has bequeathed the memory of a useful life, and the rearing of sons and daughters who have an honored place in our county and state.
Brief funeral services were conducted last Wednesday afternoon at the Backhaus home in Pierce, followed on Thrusday by another service at the residence of her son, Watson Thomazon. Interment was made in the Burrows cemetery, near the old farm on which so many years of her life had been passed.
The Columbus Telegram, March 7, 1913
DIED
GERRARD--Leander Gerrard, pioneer of Nebraska and one of the founders of the Columbus State bank, the oldest state bank in Nebraska, died at his home at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. His demise was due to a paralytic stroke which put the stamp of death on his brow four weeks ago. Funeral services were held at the family residence at 2:30 p.m. today, Rev. George F. Williams, pastor of the Presbyterian church, conducting the last rites. Surviving members of the immediate family are Mrs. Gerrard; two sons, Clarence L., of Columbus, and E.A. Gerrard, of London, England; two daughters, Mrs. Joseph A. Bartley, of Cape Town, South Africa, and Mrs. Roscoe Pound, of Cambridge, Mass.; two brothers, Alvin and Henry Gerrard, of Monroe. All were present at the funeral with the exception of the son and the daughter residing abroad.
The story of the life of Mr. Gerrard is one full of interest, closely linked, as it is, with the early history of Nebraska, politically and industrially. The following sketch of his career is taken in the main from Morton's history of Nebraska:
"Leander Gerrard, of Columbus, has, it is believed, seen longer continuous service as a bank president than any other man in the state, having been elected president of the Columbus State bank in 1871 and continued in that office till 1906. He was born in Manchester, England, August 31, 1837, while his father, Joseph Gerrard, and his mother were making their home there temporarily. The following year the family returned to America, going to Rock Island, Ill., in 1838. THere they lived for twenty years, until 1858 when they came to Nebraska, settling near where the town of Monroe is now located.
"Leander Gerrard's education was acquired chiefly in the public schools at Rock Island, Ill., and after serving as a clerk in a clothing store in that city for several years he went to Des Moines, Ia., in 1855, where for nearly a year he was a clerk in a banking house and loan office. In the spring of 1856 he removed to Omaha, preceding the other members of his father's family in coming west. During that year he participated in the founding of the city of Fremont. In 1857 he organized Monroe county, which was subsequently absorbed into Platte county, and laid out the old town of Monroe, about a mile eat of the present site of the town. In 1858, Mr. Gerrard helped to organize the republican party in Nebraska and the same year he secured passage of the first herd law by the legislature in Omaha, a law which was later widely copied in western states.
"In the spring of 1858 Mr. Gerrard secured the establishment of the first overland mail service between Omaha and Monroe. Service was given three times a week. The route was later made from Omaha to Columbus. During his residence in Monroe county from 1857 to 1866 Mr. Gerrard was engaged in the cattle business, freighting business and also conducting a trading post with the Indians. In 1861 he was admitted to the bar.
"In 1866 Mr. Gerrard moved to Columbus where he was at one time member of the law firm of Whittmore, Gerrard and Post. In 1871 he became president of the private bank of Gerrard & Reed, which was consolidated four years later with the Turner & Holst bank under the name of the Columbus State bank, of which he was made the head.
"Mr. Gerrard was long prominent in the republican party in Nebraska. He was a member of the estate senate 1870-71; was a chairman of the first republican state convention ever held in Nebraska; was delegate to the national republican convention which nominated General grant for his first term as president; was appointed by President Grant as United States district attorney for this district in 1871, but refused to serve.
"His marriage to Miss Bettie C. Weaver, of Columbus, was solemnized in 1870."Senate Voices Appreciation. Resolutions expressing appreciation of the services of the late Leander Gerrard in the early sessions of that body were passed by the state senate at Lincoln yesterday. The resolutions, introduced by Senator Krumbach, of this district, were as follows:
"Whereas, Leander Gerrard, one of the pioneer territorial settlers in this state, died Wednesday in Columbus after more than one-half a century of honroable and useful life spent in the development of this state, and
"Whereas, Mr. Gerrard was a former member of this body where he rendered conspicuous ervices in its early essions, therefore, be it
"Resolved, That this body express its deep sense of appreciation of the services of Honorable Leander Gerrard and its sense of the great loss of this state in his absence from future counsels for its welfare.
"Resolved, That these resolutions be spread upon the minutes of this body and the secretary send a copy thereof to the relatives of our deceased fellow-worker."BRODFUEHER--Lying across a canvas cot in the basement of his store on Olive street between Twelfth and Thirteenth, F.A. Brodfueher, a pioneer jeweler of Columbus, was found dead by his clerk, Ferdinand Hoffmeister, at 7:10 o'clock Thursday morning. Clutched in one hand was a .32 calibre revolver with which he had evidently sent a bullet crashing through his head. The little lead pellet had entered the right temple and had come out on the left side of the head, making death instantaneous.
That Brodfuehrer had laid his plans for suicide was indicated by his actions early Thursday morning. He arose somewhat earlier than usual and left for the store before 7 a.m. Prior to going down town, he took his watch, pocketbook and several other effects out of his pockets and left them in his room. This was not known to members of the family till after his departure.
A few minutes before 7 o'clock men in nereby stores were startled by the muffled report of a revolver, but gave little thought to it at the time.Clerk Finds Body. Fifteen minutes later Brodfuehrer's body was found by his clerk, Ferd. Hoffmeister. The latter came down to the store as usual a few minutes after 7 o'clock. He started to sweep out, preparatory to opening the store for the day's business, when he noticed the cellar door ajar. As he swept closer to it, he saw the reflections of a light in the cellar and thought he caught the scent of smoke.
Thinking the unusual condition of affiars might signify something amiss in the basement, Hoffmeister descended the stairs. His employer's lifeless body met him at the bottom. Hoffmeister hurried out of the store and called in a policeman, who took charge of the remains till the arrival of Coroner Henry Gass.
After conducting an investigation, Coroner GAss announced that it was a plain case of suicide and there was no necessity of holding an inquest.Despondent Over Ill-Health. Friends of the veteran jeweler say that he had been despondent over ill-health for a long time. For several years he had been afflicted with a serious throat trouble. Nearly two years ago he underwent an operation for elimination of the trouble, but while it afforded temporary relief, the operation did not restore him to good health again.
Members of the family had feared for some time that the condition of his health might result in a breakdown and they had been keeping careful watch of his welfare. Only a few minutes after the tragedy, his youngest daughter, Miss Hedwig Brodfuehrer, arrived at the store. She was almost prostrated with grief when friend broke the news to her.A Jeweler Since Boyhood. Mr. Brodfuehrer was a native of Helburg, Saxony, Germany, where he was born on July 5, 1848. As a young man he learned the jewelry business in the thorough manner that only a seven-year apprenticeship under a first-class jeweler in the old country could give him.
Finally, he determined that better opportunity to get ahead in his chosen trade was offered in America, and he came to the United States, locating first at Cincinnati. From there he went to Elgin, Ill., to take a position as adjuster int he Elgin watch factory. After spending two years there, he came to Nebraska, going to work for the uncle of the young woman whom he later married.More Than 40 Years Here. Forty-one years ago, two years after his wedding in Omaha, he came to Columbus with Mrs. Brodfuehrer and launched in the jewelry business for himself. Since that time he had been regarded as one of the substantial business men of Columbus.
Mr. Brodfuehrer was one of the early members of the Maennerchor society, and always took an active interest in its affairs.
He leaves, besides his wife, four sons, Herman, of Columbus; Ben, of Iowa; Alvin, of Kimball, Neb., and George, and four daughters, Miss Antonia Brodfuehrer, of Seattle, Wash.; Misses Anna and Hedwig Brodfuehrer, of Columbus.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
The Columbus Telegram, March 25, 1913
DIED
ANDERSON--
DAVE ANDERSON, PIONEER, DEAD -- Early Settler of Columbus Passes Away at His Home in South Omaha
Word of the death of "Uncle Dave" Anderson, pioneer of Columbus and Platte county, reached Columbus Monday afternoon. He passed away at his home in South Omaha Monday morning at the age of 81 years, after a long illness. While in Columbus in the early days, Mr. Anderson was a stock-buyer and real estate dealer. At one time he owned a farm eight miles east of Columbus. He is well known to the old settlers of this vicinity with whom he renewed his acquaintance on the occasion of a visit a year or two ago. The following account of his life is taken from the World-Herald:
David Anderson was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, February 16, 1832. This was a few days following the second election of Andrew Jackson.
In 1859 he came to Nebraska and for some years resided at Columbus. He was a citizen of South Omaha for twenty-eight years.
He was 17 years of age when he enlisted in Philadelphia to take part in the Mexican war. While his regiment was en route for the front, word reached the commander that the war with Mexico had ended.
In Philadelphia he learned the painters' trade and worked at that line for some time.
In the year 1856 Mr. Anderson was an alternate delegate to the first national convention of the republican party. His title "the patriarch of his party" is well merited.
He organized a prospecting party in 1859 that traveled to Pike's peak. Mr. Anderson painted the first substantial buiding in Denver, the office of the Overland Express company.
One of the first settlers at Columbus Neb., he lived there for a number of years, taking up the real estate business.
Describing early days in Nebraska Mr. Anderson in an interview some few weeks before his death said:
"Dobytown, just two miles west of Fort Kearney, was a town of about 300 population. The houses were built of adobe or sod. It was on the western edge of civilization and was a great rendezvous for outlaws and gamblers.
"We stopped at the old Boyd ranch, eleven miles east of the Fort, to rest the team, for three days. While we were there the territorial election was held for choosing a delegate to congress. This was the only polling place between Grand Island and Fort Kearney, a distance of about thirty miles. The democratic candidate was Experience Estabrook of Omaha, and the republican, Samuel G. Daily. There were twenty-two votes cast at the Boyd ranch, half of them by officers and soldiers from the fort.
"At Grand Island there was a small settlement, mostly of Germans. But Columbus, ninety miles west of Omaha, was the first real live town we had seen in the Platte valley. It was laid out on a grand scale in 1857, and there were about 200 residents at this time. There were a dozen sod houses, a large frame hotel, and a saw mill.
"Only fifteen miles north of the town there was a large colony of Mormons. In 1858 they had been on their way to Utah, when they received orders from Brigham Young to halt and locate temporarily wherever they chanced to be, and wait until the Mormons adjusted the troubles that had arisen.
"Eight miles east of Coumbus we saw a frame house for the first time on our long journey. It was occupied by William Fales, a young man 30 years of age and his wife, who was just twice as old. It was this farm that I afterwards purchased."
After coming to South Omaha Mr. Anderson devoted his energies to real estate and loans in the new town. He built up a substantial business and merited the respect of every business man in the city.
David Anderson came to South Omaha in 1886. From the first he took an active interest in public affairs. He organized the first board of trade in the Magic City and was one of the first promoters and shareholders in the electric light company which was later taken over by the Omaha company.
Up until ten years ago he took an active and lively interest in all matters pertaining to the city and its business and political interest. And in fact up until two months ago he was consulted on many public matters.
He organized the South Omaha Pioneer Historical society and was its first president. He was also a member of the Douglas County and State Pioneers.
He is suvived [sic] by a wife and two children and six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His daughters are Mrs. Emma Cook of Omaha, and Mrs. Laura Omeg of Spokane. The grandchildren are Harry Fenner, Walter Fenner, Fred Lightfoot and Hazel Graves, Frank Lightfoot and Mrs. Lill[ian] Trahoe.
The Columbus Telegram, April 16, 1913
DIED
BREMER--
Pioneer Resident is Called.
A pioneer who has seen Columbus grow from a settlement of a few log houses into a flourishing, prosperous city passed away when death came to Mrs. Mary Becher Bremer Wednesday evening at 8 o'clock. More than four years ago, on November 26, 1908, Mrs. Bremer suffered a stroke of paralyis that left her an invalid. This week the second stroke came.
As Mary Becher, Mrs. Bremer was born in Austria April 9, 1837, being one week past 76 years of age at her death. With her father and his family she came to America as a young woman. They located in Columbus fifty-five years ago, her father being a member of the little ban of pioneers that laid out the original town. He conducted the first hotel which was built by the company on a site south of the present court house, and his daughters assisted him in the work.
About a year after coming to Columbus, Mary Becher was married to Charles Bremer, a member of the original Columbus colony. Mr. Bremer built the Columbus brewery and managed it until his death in 1875.
Left a widow more than thirty-five years ago, Mrs. Bremer has made her home most of the time since with her daughter, Mrs. George Fairchild. When in good health, she went about doing good among her neighbors, nursing them in their illness and shedding sunshine everywhere with her cheerful disposition, which even her later trials could not mar.
Mrs. Bremer leaves two daughters, Mrs. George Fairchild, of Columbus, and Mrs. C.D. Rakestaw, of Berkeley, Cal., and three grand-children, Ralph, Edwin and Roy Coolidge. Three daughters, Mrs. Anna Coolidge, and Mary and Ceclia Bremer, preceded her to the other life. Mrs. Bremer was a sister of Gus Becher, sr., Mrs. Elmer Koenig, of Omaha, Mrs. Josephine Miller, of Omaha, and also of the late Mrs. Katherine Speice and the late Frank Becher.
Funeral arrangements will be made definitely when word is received from Mr. Becher, in California. If he comes to attend the funeral, the services will be held Monday; if not, the services will be Saturday.
The Columbus Telegram, April 21, 1913
DIED
HANSEN--
DROWNED IN WATER TANK. - Two-Year-Old Child Falls in While at Play--Little Body Found Too Late.
The little 2-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Nels Hansen met a tragic death at the Hansen farm in Walker township last Saturday, when he fell into a water tank, while at play.
So far as is known, no one witnessed the accident that resulted in the child's death. He was playing about the yard, presumably in safety. Soon members of the family missed him and a search was instituted. The little body was found at the bottom of the large tank, which was kept partly full of water for the farm stock. Life was not yet extinct, but efforts to revive him were futile. The funeral was held Sunday.
This is the third occurrence of the kind in Walker townsihp in recent years. A child was drowned on August Shokey's farm in a similar manner several years ago, and some years previous to that Jorgen Christensen lost a child in the same way.LEHMAN--
A BRIGHT LIGHT IS DIMMED - William H. Lehman Falls Beneath the Railroad Wheels, and His Injuries Prove Fatal.
In attempting to alight from a passenger train at Central City last Friday night, Mr. William Lehman, of this city, misjudged the speed of the train, and was thrown under the wheels. One foot was severed, and he suffered internal injuries. His wounds were temporarily dressed at Central City, and then he was hurried to the Grand Island hospital, where his injured limb was amputated above the knee. He rallied nicely following the operation, and all day Saturday and Sunday his physicians and relatives regarded his condition as promising. Early Sunday evening there was a sudden change for the worse, and at day-break next morning he expired, the physicians stating that unforseen complications, due to internal injuries, rather than to the loss of his limb, were responsible for his death.
It is not more than natural that the announcement of Will Lehman's sudden call should carry a shock of pain to practically all homes in Columbus, for indeed he had been a part of the city life so long that he seemed a part of many homes. He was born in this city on the 8th of August, in the Centennial year, and was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. George Lehman. He received his primary education in the public schools of the city. He was keen of intellect, and was rated as brighter than the average of his mates in the books. This rating must have been true, because after his graduation from the city schools he went to the state university and there carried to completion in four years the regular five-year course.
Since chidhood his home had been in the hotels operated by his father--first in the old Grand Pacific and for the last two decades in the Thurston, which is still owned and operated by his father. His hotel life carried him into touch with all the prominent traveling men of the state and nation, and it has been said of him that he had personal acquaintance of more traveling men than any other person of his years in all the West. And the good place Will held in the hearts of the men of the road was evidenced by the wealth of flowers and messages of sympathy which the travelers sent to the hospital when they learaned of his injuury [sic], and to his home when announcement of his death was made.
When the benevolent and patriotic order of Elks first found a place in this part of Nebraska one of its earliest members was Will Lehman, and his memory will ever be sheltered by his fraters of the order. He was also an honorary member of the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department. Notwithstanding the chill wind and the steady rainfall at the hour of the funeral service, a large number of the fire boys, in the uniform of their craft, served as guard of honor to the body of their departed frater when it was borne to the city cemetery.
Wednesday afternoon the body was borne from the Thurston hotel to Grace Episcopal church. The sky was overcast by cold, dark clouds, and a pittiless rain was falling, but within the sacred house there was the charm and the inspiration of spring-time, resultant from the sympathy and love of a multitude of friends of the dead, and of his household, manifested by their offerings of flowers. Tenderly and earnestly Father Xanders, the Grace parish priest, said the service of the church for such occasion, the choir rendered favorite hymns of hope, and then the company journeyed to the city cemetery. And there, within the shelter of a capacious funeral tent, the bearers of the body, Messrs George Winslow, Irving W. Speice, Charles Segleke, jr., David T. Martyn, jr., Will Murray and O.N. Stukey--(The first four named having been schoolmates of the dead boy)--gave the body to the grave, the church choir sang a final prayer, the priest spoke the committal words of his church, the fire-boys reformed ranks.
Surviving members of Mr. Lehman's immediate family are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Lehman; one sister, Mrs. A.M. Gray, and two brothers, Charles and George Whaley, all residing in Columbus with the exception of Mr. George Whaley, who resides in Omaha.
Creston Statesman, June 20, 1913
DIED
ENGEL--Mr. N. N. Engel was born Sep. 28, 1822, Schleisweig, Holstein, Germany. On Oct. 20, 1850, he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Jansen. They came to America in 1859; locating in Rushville, Illinois. In 1882 they removed to Iowa, and in 1901 came to Creston, Nebraska.
The wife and mother passed away January 5, 1912, at Creston, they having lived as husband and wife for over 61 years.
Ten children were born to this union, viz.: Christian Engel, died in 1896; Mrs. Mattie Paschen, died in 1910; Anna, died in infancy; Mrs. Ada Engel, living at Plainview; Mr. Anton Engel, Creston; Mrs. Anna Friday, Des Moines, Iowa; Mrs. Lena Wacker, Larkin, Kan.; Mrs. Mary Wacker, Plainview, Nebr.; Mrs. Rosa Hook, Illinois, Mr. Julius Engel, Creston. All were present at the funeral except Mrs. Lena Wacker of Kansas, and Mrs. Rosa Hook of Illinois.
Mr. Engel passed away on June 10, 1913, being 90 years, 8 months and 12 days old. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church and never united with any other. There being no Lutheran church in Creston, and because of his inability to hear and understand the English language, and in his later years on account of the infirmities of age, he did not attend church anywhere. He has finished his course here, we lay his body away in the city of the dead, his spirit has returned to the God who gave it.
The funeral servcies were held in the M. E. Church, at 2: o'clock p.m., Friday, June 13th, the pastor of the Presbyterian Church preaching the sermon. Interment was made in the Creston Cemetery.--submitted by Katie Kratovil
Columbus Tribune-Journal, June 25, 1913
DIED
JELDEN--John Jelden, for many years a well known farmer of Grand Prairie township, died at his late home in that community last Sunday. Mr. Jelden had been in poor health since the summer of 1900, when a thorn from a sandburr poisoned his flesh, and for more than two years he was unable to leave his bed. Since that time he has been able to come to the city occasionally, although badly crippled. Mr. Jelden was born in East Friesland, Germany, and was in the neighborhood of sixty years of age. He came to Platte county about thirty years ago, and before his marriage worked on farms in the county. For many years, however, he had lived on his home farm in Grand Prairie township. He leaves a family of a wife and eight children--four sons and four daughters. Funeral services will be held this afternoon at the home, and interment will be made in the cemetery at the Shell Creek German Baptist church, in the same neighborhood.
The Columbus Telegram, November 21, 1913
DIED
FREEMAN--Chas. W. Freeman, member of school board, dies in California Tuesday Charles W. Freeman, well known retired farmer and member of the Columbus board of education, passed away Tuesday at the home of his brother, G. R. Freeman, in Los Angeles, California, whither he had gone in the hopes that the balmy atmosphere of the golden state would restore his broken health. Word of his death came in a message from his brother Wednesday morning and brought grief to a host of friends in Platte county.
Last winter Mr. Freeman was stricken with heart trouble and a bronchial affliction and was critically ill for weeks. Finally he recovered sufficiently to get around again and attend to his personal affairs and his duties as a member of the school board. His health, however, continued poorly and gave little promise of getting better. About two months ago, on advise of his family physician, he went to California, Mrs. Freeman accompanying him. A fortnight ago his condition took a sudden turn for the worse.
The remains will be brought to Columbus for burial. Mr. Freeman's brother and Mrs. Freeman are expected to arrive with the body at 5:21 p.m. Saturday. Funeral services will be held at the family residence at 3 p.m. Sunday. Rev. G. F. Williams, pastor of the Presbyterian church will officiate.
Charles W. Freeman was a son of John S. Freeman, one of the early settlers of Grand Prairie township. He was born in Crawford county, Penn., April 21, 1857. He came west as a young man and on February 6, 1883, married Miss Eliza Rogers, at Corning, Ia. The same year Mr. Freeman and his bride came to Nebraska and located on a farm near that of his father in Grand Prairie township. There they made their home until February 25, 1907, when they retired from active farm life and moved to Columbus.
Mr. Freeman was a member of the I.O.O.F. lodge and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. While residing in Grand Prairie township he was recognized as one of the leading farmers of his community and enjoyed a wide acquaintanceship. Several years after moving to Columbus he was elected to a position on the school board, where he served the city faithfully until stricken with ill health.
He leaves a wife and three daughters, Misses Ruby, Pearl and Vera Freeman, all residents of Columbus; one brother, G. R. Freeman, of Los Angeles, and one sister, Mrs. Frank Coleman, of North Platte.