Obituary—Joseph Gravel

Joseph Gravel was born at Saint Joseph, Canada, April 12, 1846. When he was eight years of age the family moved to Beaverville, Ills. His death occurred at Newton, Nov. 24, 1921. He was one of six children, four sons and two daughters, born to George and Julionia Gravel.

Mr. Gravel was married to Salina Carifel in February, 1864. Thirteen children blessed this union, twelve of whom survive their father. They are Mrs. Ida Curby and Mrs. Mattie Carter of Hesston, Kan., Mrs. Stella Brown of Fitzgerald, Ga., William and Amos of Oklahoma, Mrs. M. A. Carrier of Strong City, Kan., Mrs. W. P. Miller and Mrs. Ferd Lagree of Newton, Cictor, Nopolean and Addison, Moundrigde , and Mrs. Ada Brown of Georgia were present at the funeral services. One daughter, Mabel, died at the age of 23 years.

The deceased knew of the realities of soldier life having enlisted in Co. B, 134th Ills. volunteer infantry, in which he served until the close of the war being honorably discharge Dec. 15, 1864. The family came from Illinois to Kansas in 1879, locating on a farm in McPherson county, moving from there to Newton in 1892, where his wife and mother passed away Oct. 15, 191r (sic). Mr. Gravel was a member of the First Baptist church of Newton and contributed cheerfully to its support. He was honest, industrious and frugal. He was in the employ of the city for several years. Since the passing away of his companion he has felt very lonely and at times expressed the desire to join those dear to him in life who had passed before. Yet he was ever appreciative of all kindness shown him. He passed peacefully from this life at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lagree 1810 Main street.

Funeral services, conducted by Rev. J. M. Gurley of Topeka, were held at the Duff and Sons parlors at 3 o’clock, Sunday, Nov. 27. Interment followed in Greenwood cemetery by the side of his wife and daughter. Besides the large circle of relatives there are many friends who will mourn the passing, and cherish the memory of Joe Gravel.