SEMERAD, JOSEF [1851 - March 29, 1928]
JOSEPH SEMERAD FUNERAL HELD SATURDAY
    The unsolved tragedy of the death of Joseph Semerad is a blot upon the pages of Colfax County history, for the memory of that night's dark even will ever be a blemish upon its fair name which can be partially removed only by the speedy discovery and punishment of the perpetrators. Joseph Semerad was a peace-loving, upright and honorable man, who lived his life in accordance with the promptings of his heart and conscience, a follower of the Catholic faith, a good father, kind neighbor and friend worthy of the name. For forty-five years he had been a resident of this community, a hard-working man and a good manager whose toil was rewarded with success. He was the father of a family of six children and although he shared with each of them of his bounty, he still retained a goodly portion of this world's goods. He was a native of Bohemia and with his family came to America in 1883 direct to Nebraska and settled in this precinct. He life record is but another example of what industry and thrift, backed by determination and perseverance can accomplish.
    His funeral was held Saturday morning and was largely attended by friends and the bereaved family. They gathered with the relatives at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Semerad where the opening services were conducted by Rev. A. Folta, which continued with requiem mass at St. Mary's church at Tabor, the church choir having furnished music. Burial was made in St. Mary's cemetery. Mr. Semerad is survived by two sons Anton and Joseph both of this precinct and four daughters Mrs. J.W. Bobisud of Dodge, Mrs. Amos Dostal of the Tabor neighborhood, Mrs. Frank Brichacek of Maple Creek precinct and Miss Rose Semerad who was keeping house for him. To all of these, in their sorrow, goes out the sincere sympathy of all.
[Howells Journal, April 6, 1928 - Submitted by Elizabeth Sebranek]