March 10, 1916

AN OLD CITIZEN DEAD

One by one the Reaper of Time gathers in the old-citizens of Linn County-the pathfinder of Eastern Kansas. Saturday John W. Leeka answered the final call of the Master, and this closed a long and useful life here on earth, fifty years of it being spent in Linn county.

Deceased was born near New Vienna, Clinton county, Ohio, March 2, 1841. At the age of 21 he answered the call of President Lincoln for men to defend the country, joining Co. A, 48th Reg., Ohio Volunteers, and served his country until mustered out in New Orleans, Sept. 19, 1864. He took part in the battle of Shiloh April 6 and 7, and many other prominent engagements. He was married July 15, 1866 to Miss Amanda Jane Ellington who passed over many years ago. To this union five children were born as follows: Mrs. W. P. Conkey of this place, Mrs. I. M. Benham of Horton, J. E. Leeka, Mrs. W. H. Cady and Miss California all of this place. Soon after his marriage he and bride moved to Linn county, settling on Col. Ed. R. Smith's farm, near Mound City, residing in Mound City and Paris township until 1879 when he moved to Pleasanton to educate his children, entering the grocery business which he followed a few years.

He was a member of the A. O. U. W., and Jewel post, No. 3, G. A. R. In the latter order he took much interest and was a regular attendant at post meetings.

Funeral services were held at the late resident Monday at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. Boicourt, pastor of the M. E. church.

To the sorrowing daughters and son the people of Pleasanton extend sympathy.

J. W. Leeka was held in high esteem by his comrades in Jewell post, No. 3, G. A. R. Resolutions of condolence were drafted and spread on the records of the post.