The Columbus Telegram, January 2, 1914
DIED
MOSTEK--The body of Peter Mostek, who died as result of a blow on the head received Christmas evening, was taken to Columbus Friday for examination and brought back to Tarnov Saturday evening. Funeral services were held at St. Michael's church Monday and burial was made in the parish cemetery. Mr. Mostek who was 25 years old, was the third son of Mr. and Mrs. John Mostek. He leaves his parents, three brothers and four sisters. [Tarnov.]LEGGAT--Mrs. Jane Leggat, for many years a resident of the O'Kay neighborhood, died at her home in Lindsay, Monday, December 22, at the age of 81. She was a native of Scotland. Death came suddenly and her relatives and many friends were greivously shocked when they heard the sad news, as she apparently had been in good health. She leaves to mourn her departure two brothers, one in California and the other in Australia, two sons, James and Dave Leggat, and three daughters, Mrs. William Yates, and the Misses Belle and Jennie Leggat, besides nine grand children and two great grandchildren. Funeral services, conducted by the Rev. E.E. Pengelly, of Lincoln, were held at the O'Kay Congregational church, of which the deceased was a member, Friday afternoon, and the remains were laid to rest in New Hope cemetery. O'Kay friends extend their sympathy to the bereaved family in their hour of grief. They mourn for her, yet they know the influence of her beautiful life lives still.
The Columbus Telegram, January 9, 1914
DIED
SPEAR--George Spear, a popular resident of Columbus many years ago, passed away Monday at his home in Norfolk. Death was due primarily to hardening of the arteries. Mr. Spear's health had been failing for three years, but he continued his work on the road until two months ago when complications set in. Years ago Mr. Spear served as day clerk at the Grand Pacific hotel when George Lehman was making it the leading hotel of Columbus. Later when Mr. Lehman opened up at the Thurston Mr. Spear discharged similar duties there. About fifteen years ago Mr. Spear went to Norfolk to assume management of the Oxnard hotel. After successfully conducting that business for six or seven years, he deserted the hostelry for the road and became a knight of the grip, traveling for L.P. Larson company, of Fremont. Possessed of a pleasing personality, Mr. Spear was immensely popular among his friends. At the time of his death he was exalted ruler of the Elks' lodge at Norfolk and state secretary of the United Commercial Travelers. He leaves a wife and one daughter. Funeral services were held at Norfolk Wednesday afternoon. Mrs. George Lehman, Frank Schram and Rev. W.H. Xanders were among the Columbus people who went up to attend the funeral.HOADLY--John Hoadly received word Saturday noon that his brother had been injured in an accident at Doniphan, Neb., and in the evening word came of his death. Mr. and Mrs. Hoadly left Sunday for Doniphan to attend the funeral. Miss Connelly, sitser [sic] of Mrs. Hoadly, came up from Lindsay to take care of the children during their absence. [Cornlea.]
STARKEY--Louis Francis, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. John E. Starkey, passed away at the family residence, 316 East Fourteenth street, Tuesday. Death was due to pneumonia. The child was born February 12, 1913. Funeral services were held at the Catholic church Wednesday.
LAMBRECT--Andrew Lambrecht died last Saturday at his home several miles northeast of Richland. He was ill only a few days and eath was due to heart trouble. Mr. Lambrecht was 61 years of age. Funeral servics were held Monday and burial was made in the Schuyler cemetery.
FANGMANN--Mrs. Fred Fangmann passed away Friday, January 2, at her home. She was 41 years of age on new year's day. Mrs. Fangmann leaves her husband and nine children. She was a member of the Christian Mothers' society and was a true wife and loving mother. Funeral services were held in St. Francis church Monday morning and burial was made in the parish cemetery.
JOHNSON--Unconscious of the terrible tragedy which had deprived him of his father and mother, little Emil Johnson, 17 months old, was in Columbus between trains a few days ago on his way to a new home in the western part of the state. The child is a son of the Johnson woman who was convicted at Wahoo, Neb., last week of having murdered her husband and was sentenced to from one to ten years in the state penitentiary. The Johnsons had seven children, and the court placed them in the care of the Children's Home society of Omaha. Rev. R.B. Hall, of Neligh, Neb., was a representative of the society, took little Emil out to a new home, stopping here between trains. Rev. Hall would not make their destination known, as he did not want the shadow of the crime to follow the tot into his future environments.
SPARKS--Alvin Abraham, little 4-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. James Sparks, died Tuesday of last week. Death was due to diphtheria of which there have been a number of cases in this vicinity during the last few weeks. Interment was ade in the Richland cemeteyr. The family is still under quarantine.
The Columbus Telegram, January 16, 1914
DIED
HENNING--The remains of Mrs. Carolina Henning, who passed away at Platte Center Monday, were brought to Columbus Thursday for burial. Funeral services were held at the German Evangelical church at 1:30 p.m., Rev. Miessler conducting them. Mrs. Henning and her husband formerly lived southeast of Columbus, but have of late been making their home at Loup City. She was visiting a daughter at Platte Center when death came, a result of paralyis.WESTMORE--John Westmore, a young farmer of the St. Edward neighborhood, passed away January 13 at St. Mary's hospital, following an operation performed by an Omaha surgeon. Peritonitis was the cause of death. Mr. Westmore was nearly 31 years of age, and is survived by his wife. His brother, William Westmore, and his mother were here Tuesday. They had the body shipped to St. Edward for burial. Funeral services were held there Thursday.
CAMPBELL--Funeral services for the late Mrs. Charles Campbell, who died at her home two and a half miles south of Creston January 7, at 5:30 a.m., were held last Friday at the Creston Presbyterian church, conducted by Rev. Wetzel. Burial was made in the Creston cemetery. Mrs. Campbell had suffered for several years with tuberculosis. She sought relief from the malady in many parts of the country, but two years ago her condition was rendered hopeless by complications of stomach trouble. Though she knew the angel of death was steadily approaching, Mrs. Campbell was patient, even cheerful, through the long illness. Ida May Schroeder Campbell was born in North Bend, Wis., June 5, 1875, being 38 years, 7 months and days old at the time of her death. When she was about three years old her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Schroeder, moved to Nebraska. They located in Platte county on what is known as the Schroeder farm. She was married October 23, 1905, to Charles Campbell. They spent that and the following year in Idaho, then returned to Platte county to reside. Two daughters were born to them, Miss Lena, who lives at home, and Dorothy, who died when a baby. Besides the husband and daughter there are surviving, two brothers, Albert, of Denver; Oscar, of Salt Lake City; one step-sister, Mrs. Charles Lembek, and a step-brother, John Schroeder, both of Milwaukee, Wis.
SHULTE--Fred Haseke and Mrs. Theresa Rollman attended the funeral of the late Mrs. George Shulte at Cedar Rapids last week. Mrs. Shulte was born in 1890. She died at her home near Hemmingford, Neb., January 6, aged 24 years. Funeral services were held in the Catholic church at Cedar Rapids and burial was made there.
CHRISTENSEN--H.M. Christensen, one of the early settlers along the Looking Glass, died suddenly Wednseday morning, of last week. He had experienced a stroke of paralysis about two years before, and since that time his health has been failing. Funeral services were held at the East Danish church Sunday afternoon. The weather was favorable, and an immense crowd turned out to attend the funeral. The procession extended from the church almost to the Christensen home, 80 rods away. Mr. Christensen homesteaded the northeast corner of Woodville township and made his home on the same quarter section for nearly forty years. He leaves a wife, three sons, and one daughter. They are Hans, Henry and C.J. Christensen, and Mrs. Peter Jensen. A number of people from Lindsay and St. Edward attended the funeral. [Walker Township.]
NANCE--Word was received here Wednesday of last week telling of the death of Mrs. Nance, at Ruskin, Neb. Mrs. Nance was well known here, having lived in Richland for several years before moving to Ruskin. Mr. Nance was manager of the Hord elevator when they lived in Richland. Funeral services were held Friday. Mrs. Nance leaves her husband and seven children.
The Columbus Telegram, January 23, 1914
DIED
KLAUS--Miss Anna Klaus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Klaus who reside on a farm south of Columbus, passed away Tuesday in Los Angeles, Calif., according to a telegraphic communication received from her sister, Miss Sophia, who was out on the coast with her. Funeral services were held there Thursday and burial was made in a Los Angeles cemetery. Miss Anna had been suffering with tuberculosis for nearly fifteen years, though she was not aware of the cause of her ill-health until about four months ago when her condition became such that she could not leave her bed. About fifteen years ago Miss Anna, one of her sisters and two cousins were caught in the quick sand while bathing in the Platte river. The other three girls lost their lives, but in some unaccountable manner Miss Anna reached the river bank, unconscious. Whether she struggled there through her own efforts, or whether the current of the river carried her there she never knew. Some of her friends believe that her long siege of ill-health afterwards can be attributed to the exposure she was subjected to in the terrible experience. Miss Klaus spent most of her life in Columbus and vicinity. She went to California five years ago in the hopes of finding a climate beneficial to her health. Three months ago her sister, Miss Sophia, went out to take care of her. Miss Anna was 28 years old at the time of her death. She leaves, besides her parents, three sisters, Mrs. Vestal Moore, of Kimball, Neb.; Mrs. Frank Beyer, of Bellwood, and Miss Sophia Klaus, who resides at the family home.WAY--Funeral services for the late John way were held Saturday afternoon at the Presbyterian church in Schuyler. Mr. Way, who was engineer at the Schuyler light plant, was accidently killed there a week ago yesterday. A visitor at the plant found his dead body lying on the floor between the dynamos. The presumption is that some of his clothing caught in one of the big belts and that he was thrown violently to the floor. A broken neck was the direct cause of death. Mr. Way leaves a wife and six small children. The tragic death of Mr. Way brought sorrow to the entire city of Schuyler.
KILLIAN--Mrs. J.N. Killian is visiting in the city as guest of her sister, Mrs. C.C. Sheldon. Since the death of her husband, the late Captain Killian, who died aboard ship while returning home from service in the Philippines last summer, Mrs. Killian has resided in Blair.
LISS--Mrs. Mary Liss, widow of Jacob Liss, died suddenly at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John Tober, last Friday evening. Mrs. Liss was taken ill while calling on her daughter earlier in the day, and death came a few hours later. Heart trouble and compications due to her advanced years are given as the cause of death. The remains were taken to Duncan for burial. Mrs. Liss was a native of Poland where she was born 76 years ago. She and her husband resided near Duncan for a number of years, coming to Columbus about three years ago. Mr. Liss died here November 12, 1911. Mrs. Liss leaves two daughters and three sons.
GRAHAM--Word has reached Columbus of the accidental death of Earl Graham who was a member of the Pawnee squad in the state league during the summer of its second year. Graham met death on his ranch in Alberta, Canada, in December. It is said he was engaged in cutting down a large tree which fell across another tree in such a manner as to cause one of the branches to strike him across the back of the head. He lived for a week after the accident, dying on December 17. Mr. Graham leaves a wife and two children. For years Graham was associated in baseball with the late Jack Corbett. He and Corbett were members of Guy Green's Nebraska Indian team in 1897, leaving it the same year to sign up with Creston, Ia. They played with Creston the following year, also, winning forty out of forty-two games played. A year later Graham and Corbett helped the Rockford, Ill, team win the pennant in the "Three-I" League. Graham later played with other league teams in Illinois and Iowa. His one season with the Pawnees in the Nebraska State league was due to the influence of his old friend, Corbett, who was chief of the squad that year.
The Columbus Telegram, January 30, 1914
DIED
ANDERSON--
TRAGIC DEATH IN LUMBER MILL - Robert C. Anderson, Well Known in Platte County, Mangled by Machinery.
Caught in the shafting at his lumber mill while the machinery was in operation, Robert C. Anderson, for thirty-seven years a resident of Platte county, met a horrible death at Engelking, Wis., last Friday afternoon. Word of the tragedy came by wire to his father-in-law, Henry Stevens, of Genoa, a few hours later. Mr. Stevens and his daughter, Mrs. H.O. Peterson, left at once for the little Wisconsin lumber camp.
Reports received later from Engelking gave the details of the tragedy. Mr. Anderson had attempted to crawl under a shaft which was suspended about three feet above the floor. A set-screw caught his clothing and before the startled engineer could shut off the power and throw the belts. Mr. Anderson's body had been whipped around the revolving shaft, stiking [sic] the cement floor time and time again. The Body was horribly torn and mangled. Death must have been almost instantaneous.
Mr. Anderson was born in Massachusetts in 1868. He was virtually a Platte county product, however, for he came here with his parents in 1872 and made his home here up to three years ago. The family located on the old Platte farm about one and a half miles east of Genoa, just inside of the Platte county line. There Mr. Anderson grew to manhood. After finishing his common school education he attended Doane college at Crete, where he was a classmate of H.E. Babcock, of Columbus.
About twenty-five years ago Mr. Anderson married Miss Anna Stevens. Seven children were born to them of whom six are living. They are Eunice, Horace, Wiley, William, Arthur Fred and Robert--all residing at home.
Three years ago Mr. Anderson sold out his holdings near Genoa and moved to the little lumber camp of Engelking Wisconsin, where he erected a lumber mill to clear off 240 acres of timber land that he had purchased. His business attained quite large proportions and at some seasons he employed a big force of workmen. He had just taken a contract to saw 1,000,000 feet of lumber for other parties, when his own machinery beat out his life.
The remains were taken through Columbus yesterday en route to Genoa where funeral services were held at the Congregational church immediately after the arrival of the train. Mr. Stevens and Mrs. Peterson, together with the members of the immediate family, accompanied the remains on the long trip from Wisconsin.
Besides his wife and children, Mr. Anderson leaves his aged mother, who made her home with him in Wisconsin; a step-sister, Mary Wells, of Massachussetts; a step-brother, Gus Anderson, who is located in Colorado.HEBDA--
BODY FROZEN IN ICE OF CREEK - John Hebda Meets Tragic Death by Falling Off Union Pacific Bridge
With his feet and one arm projecting above the surface, the body of John Hebda was found frozen in the ice below the Union Pacific bridge over Lost creek, about two miles east of the depot, last Friday morning. The discovery was made by Bridge Inspector Swanson, who was out on an inspection trip. Coroner Henry Gass was notified. He was forced to chop the body out of the ice with an axe before he could lift it from its watery grave.
Hebda was last seen on the preceding Monday evening when he left the home of a friend about 6 p.m. with the intention of going home. The supposition is that later in the evening he started to walk out to see his sister who resides near the Burlington bridge that he became confused and followed the Union Pacific tracks east from the crossing, instead of the Burlington to the south, and that in the darkness he stepped off the Lost Creek culvert. His neck was broken and there were scratches on his head and face. Coroner Gass took this as an indication that in falling, his head had struck the ice. The coroner's investigation brought forth no developments that would indicate foul play, and Mr. Gass decided no inquest would be necessary.
Hebda was about 45 years of age and had made his home in Columbus for more than twenty years. He worked as a laborer, and had held jobs at the brick yards and the coal schutes during the year before his tragic death. He left a divorced wife and six children.
Funeral services were held Monday morning at the St. Anthony's Catholic church and burial was made in the Catholic cemetery.DINEEN--After six years of warfare with a complication of physical ills, Timothy Dineen passed away yesterday morning at the family home, near Oconee. While the announcement of his death was not unexpected, it was subject for the expression of many regrets when it was passed among those who had known the lad, and who had been familiar with his splendid struggle against those bodily ills which caused his untimely death. He was especially popular among the young people in the vicinity of Oconee, and his death has carried sorrow to many homes in that neighborhood. Two years ago he went to California in search of a climate which might improve his condition, and for a time it was believed the change might be beneficial, but the old troubles accompanied the boy in his travels, and he returned to the old home to pass his remaining days. Timothy Dineen, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Dineen, was born August 6, 1885, on the farm now occupied by the family. He leaves, besides his parents, one brother, John, junior, and six sisters: Mrs. Fred Bruggeman, of Columbus; Mrs. Will Foley, of Platte Center; Misses Josie, Nellie, Annie and Agnes, the four last named still in the family home. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday morning at the Platte Center Catholic church.
The Columbus Telegram, February 6, 1914
DIED
RUDISCHER--Mrs. John Rudischer passed away at her home here Friday, January 30, at the age of 78 years, 3 months and 15 days. Theresia Bauer was born at Buchen, Neuhaus, Austria, October 15, 1835. On May 2, 1859, she was married to John Rudischer. Two children were born to them, one son and one daughter, the former dying when 23 years of age. In 1882 they came to America, locating in the St. Anthony's neighborhood where they made their home until about four years ago, when they retired and moved to Humphrey. Nearly four years ago, Mr. and Mrs. Rudischer celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. Mrs. Rudischer enjoyed good health until about six weeks ago. Funeral services were held in St. Francis church Sunday and burial was made in St. Francis cemetery. Mrs. Rudischer leaves her aged husband, one daughter, Mrs. Emil Krings, who cared for her during her last illness, and three grandchildren, Johanna, Frank and Herman Krings.LLOYD??--Elmo Lloyd received a telegram Friday from Red Oak, Ia., bringing him word of the death of his aged mother there. Mr. Lloyd left at once for Red Oak to attend the funeral.
SWANSON--Word was received in Columbus yesterday afternoon of the death of O.E. Swanson at his home near Genoa. Six months ago Mr. Swanson experienced a stroke of paralysis. His condition became gradually worse. Last Monday he came to Columbus for treatment, stopping at the home of W.J. Deland. Wednesday another stroke left him near death's door. He was taken at once to his home, twelve miles north of Genoa, where death came yesterday. Mr. Swanson leaves a wife and seven children. His brother, M.W. Swanson, has been serving on the jury at the present term of district court.
PLATT--
EARLY TUTOR OF PAWNEES DIES - Mrs. Elvira Platt, real Pioneer of Nebraska, Lived a Long and Useful Life.
One of the first white women to weather the hardships of pioneer life in central Nebraska passed away January 25 when Mrs. Elvira Gaston Platt succumbed to pneumonia at her home of recent years in Oberlin, O. Mrs. Platt attained the unusual age of 95 years, 6 months and 10 days. She was an aunt of Mrs. George Lehman and C.G. Hickok, of Columbus, and was resident here for awhile in the early days. Mrs. Platt and her husband, who died years ago, will be best remembered by the early pioneers of this section of the state, she as matron of the Indian school at Genoa, and he as a farmer and trader with the Pawnee Indians two miles southeast of Genoa. Being there are many still living in this region who would be interested in a sketch of Mrs. Platt's life, Mr. Hickok has supplied The Telegram with the following information:
Elvira Gaston was born in Danby, Tompkins county, New York, July 15, 1818. In 1834 her father removed with his family to Ohio, locating on a farm near Oberlin, where Elvira was a student in 1835 and 1836 and afterwards taught in the rural districts of that vicinity. May 6, 1841, she was married to Lester W. Platt. In 1843 she went with him to teach the Pawnee Indian children in the western country which is now Nebraska, locating first near the present site of Fullerton, Nance county. She entered the work of teaching with enthusiasm and devotion, and ever after her pupils of those days and of later years were "her children." In 1846 the Platts were driven away for a time by the hostile Sioux and in 1847 she was dismissed by the Indian agent in charge of the reservation.
Much of the next fourteen years they spent on a farm in Fremont county, Iowa, a few miles up the river from Nebraska City, where they were known as staunch temperance and anti slavery workers.
In 1861, conditions being favorable again for work as teacher among the Indians, Mrs. Platte [sic] sought and obtained such a position in the school for the Pawnees at Genoa, Neb. In 1864 she resigned as teacher, entering at once upon work with the "Christian Commission" with the Union army in hospitals and camps. After following this for a few months she became matron in the Iowa Soldiers' Children's home at Farmington, Ia., for a year or more. In 1866 Mrs. Platt was again back with her Pawnee children at Genoa. In 1872 she was relieved from that position. After Mr. Platt's death in 1875, she made her home in Tabor, Ia., for five years and then a call to the industrial school for Indians at Carlisle, Pa., led her back to the work she loved, to serve as matron and helper of the Indian children.
All went well at Carlisle for some years, but a change of administration and political control at Washington led to the dismissal of all employees at Carlisle and there here [sic] work with the Indians came to an end.
From 1887 to 1897, Mrs. Platt and a widowed sister liver [sic] together at Tabor, Ia. After the sister's death, Mrs. Platt removed to Oberlin, O., to make her home with a beloved niece. Her life there was quiet, but happy by reason of the surroundings of church and college, which gave her opportunities for great enjoyment along spiritual and literary lines, her mental and physical faculties being preserved in a remarkable degree till the close of her life. Her faithful and devoted niece and care-taker, Miss Gaston, passed away in October, 1913, but a nephew and other loving friends gave her devoted attention while she lingered. Hers was a long life of great usefulness and wide and varied experiences. The body was taken to Tabor, Ia., for burial beside that of her husband.HUEPPE--Rev. Cassimir Hueppe died at the parish home in St. Bernard about 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 28, after experiencing several strokes of paralysis. Rev. Fr. Cassimir was born in Attendorn, Germany, in 1848. In 1874 he was ordained a priest and the following year he came to America. His first charge in this country was at Chaska, Minn. Later he was transferred to Teutopolis, Ill., where he was stationed until eighteen months ago when he came to St. Bernard and took charge of this parish. The funeral was held at the Catholic church at 10 o'clock Saturday morning, and burial was made in the cemetery south of here. Among his associates who were here to attend the funeral were Rev. Ewald, of Columbus; Rev. Florentius, of Humphrey; Rev. Clemens, of Lindsay; Rev. Simon, of Cornlea, and the provincial from St. Louis. There was also a large attendance of laymen from neighboring towns.
[...and...]
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Krings and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Veith were in St. Bernard to attend the funreal of Rev. Fr. Cassimir Saturday. On their return home they stopped off at Cornlea for a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mueting and Miss Mayme Kruse.
[...and...]
A number of Lindsay people attended the funeral of Rev. Fr. Cassimir Hueppe which was held at St. Bernard Saturday. [Lindsay.]DINEEN--Funeral services for the late Timothy Dineen, whose death occurred Thursday of last week, were held Saturday morning at 9:30 o'clock at St. Joseph's church. The pallbearers, chosen from among his schoolmates, were Bernard Stracke, Daniel Donaghue, Edward Buras, Thomas Foley, Edward Higgins and Dennis Gleason. [Platte Center.]
The Columbus Telegram, February 13, 1914
DIED
BELLAR--Pangs of sorrow pierced many hearts last Sunday when Mrs. Thresia Bellar passed away after a two-weeks' illness. She leaves her deeply grieved husband and twelve children, the oldest of whom is a 17-year-old daughter, and the youngest a babe of two weeks. Mrs. Bellar's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Sueper, two brothers, Frank and Tony, and two sisters, Edna and Mrs. Charley Beiermann, also survive. Mrs. Bellar was 38 years old. She was a truly christian woman and a member of the Christian Mothers' society. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock and burial was made in the cemetery south of here. Many people from surrounding towns attended the funeral.
[...and...]
Relatives and friends here have been grieved to learn of the death of Mrs. Anton Beller last Sunday morning at her home near St. Bernard. She was ill about two weeks. Mrs. Beller is survived by her husband and twelve children. The eldest child is eighteen years old, and the youngest is a babe of two weeks.SWANSON--Elon Oscar Swanson, who recently suffered a stroke of paralysis, died at his father's home in Genoa Thursday of last week. Funeral services were held Sunday at the west Danish church and burial was made in the cemetery near the church. Mr. Swanson was born in October, 1878 on the homestead of his father, Swan Swanson. He was past 35 years old at the time of death. He leaves a wife and seven children.
RUDISCHER--Mrs. Emil Krings returned Tuesday from Humphrey where she spent six weeks during the illness and following the death of her mother, Mrs. Thresia Rudischer. [Tarnov.]
WARNICK--Emma Geraldine Warnick, infant daughter of J.D. Warnick, passed away at the family residence Wednesday morning. Death was due to pneumonia. The child was nine months and four days old. Funeral services were held at the residence Thursday afternoon.
IRELAND--Word reached Columbus Sunday of the death of Dr. G.L. Ireland at his home in Springview, Neb. Dr. Ireland will be remembered as having been associated with Dr. C.D. Evans in the practice of medicine here several years ago. It is said that last Sunday morning he went out to crank his automobile preparatory to making a trip into the country. While cranking the machine he dropped dead from heart failure. Funeral services were held Tuesday and burial was made in the cemetery at Papillion. Dr. Ireland was 44 years of age. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. D.L. Ireland, Sarpy county pioneers, who settled near Papillion in 1857. In 1900 Dr. Ireland located at St. Edward. There he married a daughter of R.F. Williams of St. Edward. After practicing medicine in Boone county for eight or nine years, Dr. Ireland came to Columbus for two years, later going to Springview, Neb., where he followed his profession and also conducted the drug store. Mrs. Ireland passed away about a year ago, after suffering for a long time with cancer. Dr. Ireland was a Mason, and Odd Fellow and a Modern Woodman of America.
OTTO--Richard Otto, a farmer who resid- [sic] near Albion, died at St. Mary's hospital in this city last Friday morning. He had been a patient at the hospital about two weeks, his ailment being kidney and liver trouble. He was a native of Germany, and 54 years old. The body was taken to Albion for burial.
GRADY--Injuries he received in two recent runaways are held largely responsible for the death yesterday afternoon of John Grady, who resided ten miles north of Schuyler. Mr. Grady drove a spirited team. About the first of the year the team got away from him, and three of his ribs were broken. Last Thursday, before he had quite recovered his strength after the first injury, the team again ran away. He suffered a broken leg. He was brought to St. Mary's hospital for treatment, and died there yesterday. Mr. Grady was related to the Higgins and other prominent families of Colfax county. He was past middle-age, and unmarried.
GILSDORF--Joseph Gilsdorf's mother, who was nearing a century of years, died last Monday, at her home in St. Bernard. She was 96 years old, and was probably the oldest person residing in Platte county.
The Columbus Telegram, February 20, 1914
DIED
KRASKA--
GAS ENGINE BELT DEALS DEATH - Creston Farmer Has Head Caved in When He is Thrown Against the Flywheel.
Caught by the belt of a gas engine and thrown violently against the flywheel, Peter Kraska, a farmer residing three and a half miles north of Creston, received injuries at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday which caused his death about 12:30 o'clock the following night.
Kraska was engaged in shelling corn on his own farm when the accident happened. He was running the sheller with a twenty horse-power gasoline engine. In the course of the work he attempted to slip the belt onto the wheel while the engine was running. The belt caught his clothing and in an instant his head had been driven against the wheel and he was lying unconscious with a fractured skull.
Physicians from Leigh and Creston, and Dr. W.S. Evans from Columbus were summoned immediately. An examination of the victim's injuries established the fact that death must come within a few hours. Both the upper and lower jaws were broken and left side of the skull was crushed. He never regained consciousness.
Mr. Kraska was about 40 years old. He leaves a wife and a large family. Prior to moving onto the farm near Creston, he lived at Platte Center. Only two or three days before the fatal accident, Mr. Kraska took out a new life insurance policy for $2,000 in addition to what he had previously been carrying.RATHBURN--Mark H. Rathburn returned Wednesday morning from Falls City, Neb., where he had been summoned on account of the death of his father, R.H. Rathburn. Word of his father's death came to him Thursday evening of last week, within an hour after he had welcomed a new son to his home. The following account of the passing of R.H. Rathburn was taken from the Falls City News: "After an illness of several years, the result of paralysis, R.H. Rathburn passed away at his home, 2003 Stone sereet [sic], Thursday evening, February 12, 1914, at 6:30 o'clock. Although for the past two years he has been almost helpless, his death came suddenly for apparently he had been in better health recently than for months past. Mr. Rathburn was born June 1, 1848, in Niles, Mich., and was at the time of his death past sixty-five years of age. He was married to Miss Lillian Richardson in 1870 in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was engaged in business until 1888 when with his family Mr. Rathburn moved to Lincoln. During his years of residence in Lincoln he was engaged in the implement and hardware business until the complete failure of his health made retirement necessary. About two years ago Mr. and Mrs. Rathburn moved to this city at the request of their daughter, Mrs. H.R. Miner and Dr. Miner that they might be able to better assist Mrs. Rathburn in caring for the invalid. He has had their faithful and devoted care during his long illness. The funeral services were held from the home of Dr. and Mrs. Miner Saturday afternoon conducted by Rev. Noble of the St. Thomas Episcopal church. Of the five children of the deceased four were with their mother in the last sad hours. They were Mrs. Miner, Mark H. Rathburn of Columbus, Neb., M.C. Rathburn of Springfield, Ill., H.M. Rathburn, wife and daughter, Lincoln, Neb. One son W.W. Rathburn of Los Angeles, was unable to be present.
HALL--The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Hall died Wednesday of last week. Funeral services were held Thursday and burial was made in the Catholic cemetery.
WAGNER--Mrs. Henry Wagner, mother of Ben Wagner, died last Saturday, a victim of pneumonia. The remains were laid to rest in the St. Bernard cemetery Wednesday. The relatives have the deepest sympathy of the community.
JERDON--Albert Schulz has returned from Gothenburg, Neb., where she attended the funeral of her sister, Mrs. ____ Jerdon, who died suddenly a week ago last Sunday. Mrs. Jerdon was formerly Miss Emma Lukas and lived near Silver Creek. She was ___ years of age, and was married a little more than one year ago.
BEHRENS--Mrs. Anna Catherine Behrens passed away Wednesday at the home of her son, Johannes Behrens, seventeen miles northeast of Columbus in Colfax county. Death came suddenly to Mrs. Behrens and was due to her advanced age. She had been in feeble and failing health for years, but was not in such condition as to require the services of a physician. Mrs. Behrens was a native of Germany where she was born April 24, 1832. Funeral services will be held tomorrow at the Loseke creek church, Rev. Deninger officiating.
FREI--Mrs. Jacob Glur received word the first of the week that her sister-in-law, Mrs. Mary Urech Frei, had died Saturday from heart failure at her home in Colfax, Wash. Mrs. Frei was a sister of the late Jacob Glur, and lived here until about fifteen years ago, when she moved to Washington.
??--Mr. and Mrs. William Egger left Tuesday for West Point, in response to a message announcing the death of a sister of Mrs. Egger. The deceased gave her life for that of an infant babe.
WEGENER--Mrs. Elizabeth Wegener died Saturday, February 14, at her home east of St. Bernard after an illness of only four days with pneumonia. Mrs. Wegener was 56 years of age. She leaves her husband and eight sons and daughters, the latter being: Mrs. Minnie Bruckner, John, Ben, Joe, Tony, Henry, George and Lena, also her aged mother, Mrs. B. Sand, and four sisters, Venerable Sister Angelica, of Buffalo, N.Y., Venerable Sister Theodosia, of Alabama; Mrs. Anton Loeffler, of Lindsay; Mrs. Barney Haasman, of Randolph, and two brothers, Herman and Joe Sand. One son, Herman, passed away several years ago. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at 9:30 o'clock at the St. Bernard Catholic church, and burial was made in the cemetery south of here. [St. Bernard.]
ARNOLD--
Death of Albert J. Arnold.
Columbus relatives have received information that Albert J. Arnold died last Saturday at his home in National City, California. More than two years ago Mr. Arnold was stricken with paralysis. From that time his health declined rapidly. Funeral services were held at National City Tuesday.
Mr. Arnold had large part in the early settlement of Nebraska. He was a real pioneer, and an Indian fighter of distinction. He was born in Tyrone, New York, August 23, 1831. He came to Nebraska in 1857, locating first at the Mormon settlement in Florence, a few miles north of Omaha, and in the following spring came to Platte county and filed on a government claim on the Loup river. He caught the Pike's Peak gold fever in 1859, and spent two years in the gold camps of Colorado. Returning to Columbus in 1862, he became a member of an organization of settlers whose mission was to protect white people from Indian raiders in central and western Nebraska, and in that capacity participated in several notable engagements against the hostile savages. In the summer of 1864 he received orders from the United States government to raise a company of calvary for Col. Oliver P. Mason's batalion, with headquarters at Kearney. After performing this duty he was transferred to the Seventh Iowa cavalry, under Gen. R.B. Mitchell, and was advanced to the rank of first lieutenant in company C of that regiment. He served wih the Iowa regiment until December, 1864, most of his service being against the Sioux Indians. That same year he was commissioned provost marshal for western Nebraska, with headquarters at Kearney.
Upon returning to private life Mr. Arnold engaged in the photograph and jewelry business in Columbus in 1866, and retained his jewelry interests for twenty-five years. In 1869 he was elected sheriff of Platte county, and held that office for one term. Some twenty years ago, becaus [sic] of failing health, he sought a milder climate for a home, and moved to National City, California.
April 26, 1865, Mr. Arnold was united in marriage to Miss Amanda Polly, at Monmouth, Illinois. To this union there were born four sons, Harry J., Albert G., Arthur and Evans, all now residing in California, although until quite recently Harry J. practiced medicine in Columbus.
The Columbus Telegram, February 27, 1914
DIED
??--Mr. and Mrs. Fred Beverage were called to Weeping Water, Neb., last week on account of the sudden death of Mrs. Beverage's father. A year ago he fell from an apple tree and dislocated a bone in his neck. Afterwards he suffered periodically from convulsions caused by the dislocated bone pressing on the spinal chord. During one of those spells last week he swallowed a set of false teeth, and death resulted. Mr. Beverage returned from Weeping Water Friday, and Mrs. Beverage came the following day.SWANSON--Mary, the 8-year-old daughter of Mrs. E.O. Swanson, died Saturday. Funeral services were held Tuesday and the remains were laid to rest by those of her father, who passed away only two weeks before. [Walker Township.]
CLEUSSEN--Christian Cleussen, a brother of Fred Cleussen, of Columbus, and for many years a resident of Platte county, was struck by Union Pacific train No. 3, at Elkhorn, Neb., Tuesday evening and died a few hours later while he was being taken to a hospital in Omaha. He was crossing the tracks about 100 feet west of the Elkhorn depot when the accident happened. One of his legs was broken, a concussion of the brain was inflicted and he received internal injuries. The body was taken to Omaha where an inquest was held Wednesday. Coroner Henry Gass went down to Omaha Wednesday and brought the remains to Columbus. Funeral services will be held at the Gass undertaking parlors at 2 p.m. today, Rev. R. Neumarker officiating. Burial will be made at the Columbus cemetery. Chris Cleussen was born in Germany 47 years ago. He crossed to the United States about twenty-two years ago and came at once to Columbus. For nearly eighteen years he worked for the Carrigs and others in the vicinity of Platte Center. Four years ago he went to Elkhorn. He never mraried [sic].
HOCKENSCHNEIDER--Joseph Hockenschneider died at his home Wednesday evening, February 18, at the age of 41 years, 6 months and 3 days. Mr. Hockenschneider was born August 15, 1872 in Reitburg, Westphalia, Germany. At the age of 19 years he came to America and settled at Omaha. On May 19, 1896, he married Miss Antonia Werner and to this union there were born three children, Henry, John and Elizabeth, all of whom, together with his wife, survive him. About a year ago Mr. Hockenschneider was kicked on the chest by a horse. Since that time his health has been failing. Death was due to tuberculosis presumably started by the injury to his lungs. Funeral services were held Sautrday morning at St. Francis church, and interment was made in the parish cemetery.
The Columbus Telegram, March 6, 1914
DIED
LEVINE--Mrs. H.N. Levine passed away Wednesday night of last week in Chicago, according to word which reached members of the family here the following morning. Funeral services were held there last Saturday. Mrs. Levine was mother of Abe Levine, Jacob Levine, Ed Levine and Mrs. A. Svislowski, all of Columbus. She also had one daughter residing in Detroit and one son in Chicago. Mr. Svislowski was in Chicago at the time of her death. In accordance with the Jewish custom, the sons here closed their store for the three days following her death, reopening last Monday morning.GROWCOCK--The eighteen-months' old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.J. Growcock passed away Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. The death was not unexpected, but it was a sad blow to the hearts that had learned to love the child. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock and burial was made in the New Hope cemetery.
PUTNAM--Ethel Lucile, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Putnam, who reside on West Eighteenth street, passed away at 2 p.m. last Friday. The child had been stricken with membraneous croup less than a week. Had she lived, she would have attained the age of three years tomorrow. Funeral services were held Sunday at 4:30 p.m. at St. Bonaventure's church and burial was made in the Catholic cemetery.
PAYNTER--Mrs. Sarah Jane Paynter, an account of whose death at St. Joe, Mo., will be found on another page of The Telegram, was an early resident of Columbus. She was born in Bloomington, Ind., January 10, 1835, and was married to John Paynter in 1853. They came west in 1854 and located in Omaha when there were only three white families in the town. In 1877 they came to Columbus and conducted the Lindell hotel until 1879, when they returned to Omaha and bought the Occidental hotel. They held that until a year prior to Mr. Paynter's death in 1891. Mrs. Paynter moved to St. Joe eight years ago. Mrs. O.L. Baker, of Columbus, is her sister.
The Columbus Telegram, March 13, 1914
DIED
AHRENS--Mrs. Gesina Catherine Ahrens passed away yesterday at the home of her nephew, John Ahrens, twelve miles north of Columbus. She had been in feeble health for some years. Death was due to complications incident to old age. Mrs. Ahrens was a native of Germany where she was born February 9, 1827, being 87 years of age at the time of her death. Funeral services will be held at the Loseke creek church tomorrow.ERNST--
SPARK OF LIFE FLICKERS OUT - E.J. Ernst, Successful Farmer and Active Democrat, Dies in California
After a losing fight against an ailment that had been undermining his health for more than a year, Ernst Julius Ernst, for many years a central figure in Platte county farm life and politics, passed away last Thursday at the home of his wife's cousin in Riverside, California. Mrs. Ernst and his son, Will Ernst, were with him when death claimed him. They brought the body to Columbus, arriving here Sunday evening. On Monday the remains were moved to the family home one and a half miles southeast of Duncan, where funeral services were held Wednesday at 1 p.m., the pastor of the German Reformed church officiating.
Early in January Mr. Ernst's condition became such that it was deemed advisable for him to seek a change of climate in the hopes that the gradual failing of his health might be checked. Accordingly, he and Mrs. Ernst went to California expecting to spend a few months with relatives at Riverside. About February 10 his condition showed a marked turn for the worse and his son, Will Ernst, of Columbus, was summoned. Will left at once for the west and remained with his father through the last weeks of his life.
Julius Ernst was one of the type of sturdy Swiss farmers who have chosen America as their adopted land and have become substantial citizens of the communities in which they have located. He was born in Aarwangen, Switzerland, January 7, 1858. When he was eleven years old he came with his parents to the United States, settling on a farm in Colfax county in 1869. There he resided until twenty-one years ago this spring when he sold the old place and bought the one near Duncan which has ever since been the family home.
On January 8, 1880 he married Miss Anna Geiser, of the Gruetli neighborhood. To them were born seven children: Ed Ernst, who resides on the home place near Duncan; Will Ernst, of Columbus; Mrs. Lillie Scheer, of The Dells, Ore.; and Martha, Clara, Arthur and Albert who passed away some years ago. Mrs. Ernst answered the final call on January 9, 1893.
The following year Mr. Ernst married Miss Rosie Schupbach. Seven children came to bless this union. Six of them: Anna, Clara, Mabel, Roy, Werner and Lester, reside on the home place. Their brother, Albert, preceded his father to the great beyond.
Julius Ernst was for many years one of the leading democrats of this community. He served as a respresentative of his district on the county board of supervisors and for the past six years has been assessor of Butler township. He was a member of the German Reformed church.
[...and...]Died in California
See Photo
ERNST JULIUS ERNST.
Prominent Platte County Farmer whose funeral was held Wednesday.FITZPATRICK--Miss Sara Fitzpatrick, daughter of the late E.D. Fitzpatrick, and member of one of the early families of Columbus, passed away at St. Joseph's hospital in Omaha Saturday evening after a long siege of pulmonary heart trouble. She had been under the care of physicians in the hospital seven weeks, and had been ill for a short time prior to entering the hospital. Miss Fitzpatrick was born in Cleveland, O. When she was three years old the family came to Columbus and this was her home until about eighteen months ago when she went to Omaha to live with her sister, Mrs. Leo. J. Sedler. The body was brought to Columbus Monday evening and taken to the home of J.C. Brynes. Funeral services were held Tuesday forenoon at St. Bonaventure's church and burial was made in the Catholic cemetery. Miss Fitzpatrick leaves three sisters and two brothers. They are: Sister M. Edwarda, of Cleveland, O.; Mrs. J.J. Murphy, of Hastings, Neb.; Edward Fitzpatrick, of New Orleans; Mrs. Leo J. Sedler, of Omaha, and Jerome Fitzpatrick, of Omaha. Mr. and Mrs. Murphy, Mr. and Mrs. Sedler and Jerome Fitzpatrick were here Tuesday to attend the funeral.
SLIVA--After a painful illness of four weeks, Mrs. John Sliva, sr., passed away Wednesday morning at ten o'clock, at the advanced aged [sic] of seventy-two years. Requiem mass was said at St. Michael's church Friday morning by Father Kanut, and the body was laid at rest in the parish cemetery. From far and near friends of the family gathered at the church and in the cemetery to pay last respects to the memory of one they loved. Mrs. Sliva was survived by her husband, five sons and a daughter. The latter are: Barney, Michael, Thomas, Charles and Frank Sliva and Mrs. Mary Slovinski.
SIEBLER--Stricken with asthma and complications, Michael Siebler passed away at his home south of town Wednesday night, March 4, at the age of 80 years. He was born in Nottingen, Baden, Germany. His early life was spent in the Fatherland. In 1882 he came with his wife to the United States. Coming west, he settled on the farm which remained the family home until his death. He is survived by six sons and three daughters, all living in Platte county. They are: Adolph, August, Leopold, William, Henry, George, Mrs. H.P. Ballou and Mrs. William Arndt, the last two residing in Columbus, and Mrs. Hoerle, who lives on the home place. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at 10 o'clock, Rev. Spriegel conducting them at the Evangelical church in Grand Prairie. [Platte Center.]
The Columbus Telebram, March 20, 1914
DIED
FRIEDRICH--A veteran of two wars and a pioneer resident of Platte County passed away Monday morning at 6 o'clock when Karl August Friedrich succumbed to a siege of typhoid fever after a three weeks' illness. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Lutheran church conducted by Rev. Herman Meissler, and burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Mr. Friedrich was a native of Groszschoneu, Saxon, Germany, where he was born March 31, 1838. In 1866 he served in the Austrian war and again in 1870-1871 he carried arms for his fatherland in the struggle with Germany. For his services in both wars he was awarded medals of honor which he cherished throughout life and which he left as priceless heirlooms to his children. Forty-seven years ago, while still a resident of Germany he married Miss Anna Haeble. Together they came to America thirty-four years ago, locating in Columbus where Mr. Friedrich worked at the trade of a carpeter. About two years later they went to Creston which was their home for twenty-two years. They then moved onto a farm in Holt county, near Atkinson, where they enjoyed rural life for four years. About six years ago they returned to Columbus where they have since resided. Mr. Friedrich leaves his wife, three sons, and four daughters. The latter are: Ernest Friedrich, Mrs. A.C. Anderson and Mrs. Dan Leonard, all of Columbus; Carl Friedrich, of Atkinson, Neb.; Otto Friedrich and Mrs. F. Schwarz, both of Humphrey, and Mrs. E.M. Johnson, of Albion. Mr. Friedrich was a member of the Landweir Verein and also of the German Lutheran church.SLIVA--Funeral services were held last Friday for the late Mrs. John Sliva at the St. Michael's church in Tarnov and burial was made in the parish cemetery. Mrs.Sliva is survived by her husband, one daughter, Mrs. Joseph Slovinski, of Tarnov, and five sons, Barney, Michael, Charles, Thomas and Frank.
REMM--Mr. and Mrs. John Arlt and baby, Ignatz Bellar and two children, Florence and Adeline, left for West Point Friday in response to a message announcing the death of Ferdinand Remm, who passed away Wednesday. Mrs. Arlt and Mrs. Bellar were daughters of Mr. Remm.
VAVRA--Miss Fannie Vavra, member of a well known family of Schuyler died at St. Mary's hospital Saturday. Death was due to peritonitis. The remains were shipped to Schuyler Saturday for burial. Miss Vavra was 42 years old.
KROPATCH--Funeral services for the late Frank Kropatch were held Monday. His death was caused by drinking wood alcohol by mistake.
PLACEK--Mrs. Sophia Placek of Loup City, passed away Wednesday morning at St. Mary's hospital where she had been brought a few days before for medical attention. The body was taken to Loup City for burial beside that of her husband who died about a year ago. Mrs. Placek was 53 years of age.
BREWER--A victim of nervous prostration and complications, Harry Brewer passed away at his home in Humphrey Wednesday night, March 11. Funeral services were held last Friday afternoon, and burial was made in the Methodist cemetery west of town. Mr. Brewer was born at Cardiff, England, October 27, 1868. When three years old he came with his parents to the United States, locating first at Chicago. After he had grown to young manhood the family moved to Omaha, where Harry worked in the car shops. September 21, 1894, Mr. Brewer married Miss Catherine Schaefer, at Aurora, Neb. To them were born five sons, Clarence, William, Everald, Claude and Francis, who, with the mother, are left to mourn his departure. About eleven years ago Mr. Brewer and his family came to Humphrey. After a year's residence here they moved to Cornlea where he conducted a saloon for four years. They afterwards returned to Humphrey. Mr. Brewer was a member of the Methodist church.
GOLUS--Relatives here received word Sunday of the death of Mrs. John Golus at Loup City. John Sliva and his sons, Barney and Frank, Mr. and Mrs. John Jaworski and members of the Prorok family left for Loup City Monday to attend the funeral, which was held Tuesday. [Tarnov.]
The Columbus Journal, March 26, 1914
DIED
REGAN--Mr. John Regan passed away at his home Sunday morning about two o'clock. Death being caused by a stroke of paralysis which he had on March 18. Some nine years ago Mr. Regan suffered from a similar stroke, since which time he has been partially disabled. Mr. Regan was born in County Cork, Ireland, May 4, 1857. He came directly from Ireland to Platte county in 1887, and has since made his home here. He is survived by his devoted wife, and four daughters, Mrs. J. W. Sheridan of Grand Island, Mrs. J L. Lucke of Spalding, and Nellie and Geneveve who are at home. There are two sons, Joseph of Anaconda, Montana, and Richard of Spalding, who is in St. Mary's hospital. The funeral of Mr. Regan will be on Thursday morning at nine o'clock at the St. Joseph church.
The Columbus Telegram, March 27, 1914
DIED
GIGAX--Atfer [sic] a lingering illness of nearly a year's duration, Herman Gigax, a resident of Bismark township for eighteen years, passed away at the family home eight miles north and a half miles east of Columbus, Friday evening, March 20. Mr. Gigax was afflicted with cancer of the stomach, but his condition was not considered serious until about four weeks prior to his death, when he suffered a relaps and his strength commenced to ebb rapidly. Mr. Gigax was a sturdy Swiss farmer. He was born in Cannon Berne, Switzerland, January 20, 1854. In September, 1876, he married Miss Anna Marie Kurth. To them were born seven children, all of whom are living. They are: Mrs. John Luchsinger, Mrs. R. G. Jenny, of Leigh; Ernst, of Creston; Fred, of Montana; Eliza, Albert and Bertha, who reside at the family home. In the year 1892 Mr. Gigax came with his family to Nebraska, locating on a farm north of Leigh. After spending one year there he farmed for three years four miles north of Columbus and then located on the farm where he was destined to spend the remainder of his days. Funeral services were held at the family home March 23 at 11 a.m., and at the Shell Creek Lutheran church at 1 p.m., Rev. Mueller officiating.CLARKE--While attending the funeral of his aunt, Mrs. Eliza Chaffee, at Bellevue, Neb., Tuesday, Howard Clarke received word of the death of his mother, Mrs. Elmira Clarke, at Beverly Hills, a suburb of Los Angeles, Calif. Mrs. Howard Clarke and Bruce were at her bedside when the final summons came. In company with W.S. Evans and his father, they will leave Los Angeles today with the remains, which will be taken to Omaha for burial. The party will arrive Sunday evening, and funeral services will be held at the First Baptist church in Omaha Monday at 2 p.m. Burial will be made in the Forest Lawn cemetery. Mrs. Clarke had been seriously ill for a period of more than two months. Mr. and Mrs. Howard Clarke went out to Beverly Hills some time ago and spent six weeks with her. Mr. Clarke came home last week, leaving Mrs. Clarke and Bruce there. He intended to return to Los Angeles in a few days, but the message telling of her death changed his plans. Mrs. Elmira Clarke was a native of Pennsylvania, where she was born about eighty years ago. On New Year's day, 1856, she was married to A.M. Clarke. With him she came to Nebraska in the spring of that year. They located at Bellevue where they made their home until 1879 when they moved to Omaha. Eight years ago they went to California, where her husband passed away four years ago. After his death, Mrs. Clarke spent the winters in California and the summers in Columbus, which she called home. She leaves two sons, Howard Clarke, of Columbus, and E. S. Clarke, of York, Neb.
SHEPARD--Mrs. Jessie Shepard, widow of James Shepard, passed away Monday at the home of her sister, Mrs. C.M. Davis, on West Seventeenth street. Death was due to tumor with which she had suffered for some time. Funeral services were conducted at the Davis home Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock by Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Mrs. Shepard was born in Pennsylvania March 15, 1857. She was married to James Shepard in Wisconsin in 1875. Three children were born to them. Two passed away in infancy. The third, Roy Shepard, is in Columbus. Mrs. Shepard came to Columbus last December from the Black Hills. Her husband died about seven years ago. She has two sisters in Columbus, Mrs. Davis and Mrs. G.L. Farnsworth.
CHAFFEE--Howard Clarke was summoned to Bellevue, Neb., Monday on account of the death of his aunt, Mrs. Eliza Chaffee. Funeral services were held there Tuesday afternoon. Mrs. Chaffee was one of the real pioneers of Nebraska, having made her home at Bellevue since the Indian days in 1859. Because of her long residence there she was chosen as the one to unveil the monument erected at Bellevue several years ago by the Nebraska State Historical society. Mrs. Chaffee was 84 years of age. She visited at the Clarke home in Columbus a number of times and had many acquaintances here. Her last visit here was last winter.
FORBES--Fullerton Post: The entire community was shocked Saturday morning to learn of the sudden death during the preceding night of Byron, the fifteen-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Art Forbes, the result of a gunshot wound of the afternoon previous. Byron, who was one of the younger Forbes children, was hunting in a boat on the Loup river near his home just this side of Palmer, when the gun accidently was discharged, the load entering his left shoulder and practically severing the arm from the body. After taking the young man home, the arm was amputated and everything known to medical science done to save him, but the loss of blood had been so great that it was impossible and he died soon after midnight. It is said that at the funeral services at Glenwood Sunday, there were over fifty automobiles in attendance, ten of them being from this city where the Forbes formerly made their home and are so well known. The floral offerings were especially beautiful. The telegram announcing the death of Byron reached the mother in Omaha just previous to her attending another son at an operation which was to have been performed on a gun-shot wound received in a similar manner several years ago. The sympathy of the entire community is with the family at this time.
REGAN--Injuries received nine years ago when he fell from a wagon are ascribed as the indirect cause of the death of John Regan which occurred at his home in Platte Center last Sunday morning. His death was due directly to a stroke of paralysis that left him helpless March 19. John Regan was born in County Cork, Ireland, May 4, 1857. In 1881 he married Miss Mary Keefe. They came to America in 1887 and settled in Platte Center. Mr. Regan is survived by his wife, four daughters and two sons. The latter are Mrs. John Sheridan, of Grand Island; Mrs. John Lucke, of Spalding; Nellie and Genevieve Regan, who reside at home; Richard, of Spalding; Joseph, of Anaconda, Mont. All were here to attend the funeral, with exception of Richard, who is a patient at the hospital in Columbus. The services were held Thursday morning from St. Joseph's church and the remains were laid to rest in St. Patrick's cemetery. Among those who were here from out-of-town to attend the funeral were : Mrs. Robert Stapleton and two sons, John and Emmet, of Cheyenne, Wyo.; John Sheridan, of Grand Island, and John Lucke, of Spalding. [Platte Center.]
TATE?--M. A. Tate, who has himself been under the doctors' care in Omaha for several weeks, was summoned to Evansville, Ind., Sunday to attend the funeral of a brother.
BELFORD--Lester Belford, of Chicago arrived in Columbus the first of the week for a visit with his brother on route 4. The past few months have been a sad period in Lester's life. His wife, whom he married a year ago, passed away February 6, giving her life for that of her babe. Mr. Belford's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Belford, who moved from Columbus to Omaha a few weeks ago, have taken the child there to live with them. Lester visited them for a few days at Omaha before coming up to Columbus.
POATCEK?--John Poatcek received word Tuesday of the death of his mother which occurred in the hospital at Columbus. He went there at once and accompanied the remains to Silver Creek where the funeral was held.
The Columbus Telegram, April 3, 1914
DIED
CLARKE--Mr. and Mrs. Howard Clarke were in Omaha Monday to attend the funeral of Mr. Clarke's mother, Mrs. Almira Clarke, whose death occurred last week in California. The services were conducted by Rev. W. Jasper Howell at the First Baptist church at 1:30 p.m. Monday. The remains were laid to rest in the family burial lot at the Forest Lawn cemetery, beside the body of her sister, Mrs. Eliza Chaffee, who passed away last week at Bellevue, Neb.WELCH--An illness of less than a week's duration resulted in the death of Mrs. William J. Welch at the family home west of Monroe Tuesday afternoon at 4:30 o'clock. Death was due to pneumonia. As Miss Elizabeth Sillick she was married to Mr. Welch in Schuyler about twenty-seven years ago. For the first year of their married life they made their home in Columbus, Mr. Welch at that time being a member of the hardware firm of Klaus, Lubker & Welch. About twenty-six years ago, Mr. Welch closed out his interests here and went to farming west of Monroe, where the family has since resided. Mrs. Welch leaves, besides her husband, six children. The latter are Hazel, Daniel, Kenneth, Harold, Dwight and Margaret. All reside at the family home except Daniel who is married and lives in the same neighborhood. Funeral services will be held at the family home at 1:30 p.m. today. Burial will be made in the Quaker cemetery nearby. Mr. Welch is a brother of Mrs. Martha Watts, Charles Welch, R.M. Welch and Mrs. Harry Newman, all of Columbus, and they planned to attend the funeral today.
JOSEPH--The remains of the late Joseph Joseph were brought here on the morning train Monday and taken to Postville for burial. [Platte Center.]
[...and...]
TIDE OF LIFE EBBS SLOWLY - Joseph Joseph Dies After Tasting No Solid Food For Many Months.
After an illness dating from December 1912, at which time a portion of the hull of an apple core lodged in his throat, Joseph Joseph died at his home on west Sixteenth street at five o'clock Saturday morning. As a result of the lodging of the apple core, a tumor appeared in the throat, which sutbbornly refused to yield to the best efforts of physicians both in Columbus and in Omaha. In January, Mr. Joseph visited a famous surgical firm in Minnesota, but they held out no hope for him and he returned home to make preparations for the end which seemed to be but a question of a few weeks. The condition of his throat was such that he had eaten no solid food since last June, and for two months he lived on soft foods, after which he subsisted on liquids, soups and milk entirely. This condition lasted for the last seven months of his life. During the last four weeks he was unable to swallow even liquids, and the only nourishment he had was injected into his body.
Mr. Joseph was born in Dowlish, South Wales, January 7, 1854. At an early age he came to this country, with his parents, who lived for a number of years at Minersville and Youngstown, Ohio. In 1871 the family came to Platte county, settling on a farm in Joliet township, in the fertile Shell creek valley. In the early eighties he lived for a time at Newton, Iowa, where he was married in 1881 to Miss Rachel Krieger. Shortly afterward he returned with his bride to this county. From that time they made their home on their farm in Joliet township until they retired about a year ago to move to Columbus.
Five children, three sons and two daughters were born to them, two of whom, David and Sarah, died in childhood. The remaining children are William, Frank and Miss Jennie Joseph, who are left with their mother. Mr. Joseph is also survived by two brothers, David and William Joseph, of this county, and two sisters, Mrs. Ann Lewis, of Columbus, and Mrs. Sarah Folliott, of Wagner, Oklahoma.
Funeral services were held Monday forenoon at the Welsh church near his old home in Joliet township, Rev. D.A. Leeper conducting the services. Relatives from a distance who were here to attend the funeral were William Krieger and Miss Mary Krieger, and Frank Reese, of Newton, Iowa; Mrs. Willis Cleaseby, of Blair, and David Lewis, of Spencer, Nebraska. Columbus people who attended the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. David Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. T.D. Thomas, John H. Lewis, Mrs. Henry Albers and A.J. Mason.BRUNKEN--Fred Brunken died at his home at O'Kay Monday at 8:30 p.m. after a lingering illness. He was born in Germany February 21, 1848. There he grew to manhood. He was a soldier in the Germany army for some time and the exposure to which he was subjected there resulted in the disease which finally caused his death. He leaves a wife, two sons and one daughter. The latter are: William, of Creston, and Henry of O'Kay, and the daughter who resides near Columbus. Mr. Brunken is also survived by three brothers, two of whom reside in Platte county, and one in New York City, and one sister who lives in Aldenburg, Germany. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the O'Kay Congregational church at 2 p.m. and burial was made in the New Hope cemetery. Rev. Henry Hilzinger, of Platte Center German Baptist church, of which Mr. Brunken was a member, conducted the services. The sorrowing family has the sympathy of the entire community. [O'Kay.]
PERSON--Mr. and Mrs. Albert Carlson and Mrs. Charles Carlson were summoned to Newman Grove Wednesday of last week on account of the death of their uncle, John A. Person. The deceased was 70 years of age. He was a native of Sweden. Funeral services wer [sic] held Friday afternoon. [Lindsay.]
The Columbus Telegram, April 10, 1914
DIED
BOWMAN--Rosaelis Kathlean, 9 months' old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Everette Bowman, died Sunday morning after a brief illness. Funeral services were held at the Holy Family church Tuesday morning, Rev. Fr. Ewald officiating. The sorrowing parents have the sympathy of the entire community in their hour of bereavement. Relatives and friends who came from a distance to attend the funeral were Mrs. D.G. McMillan, of Hastings, Ia; Mrs. D.W. Gibson, of Blanchard, Ia.; Mrs. Fred Wurdeman, of Wisner; Mrs. Lou Armbruster, of Stanton; Mrs. August Miller, Mrs. William Schulte and Joe Schulte, sr., of Dodge. [Lindsay.]BRUNKEN--Funeral services for the late Fred Brunken were held Thursday of last week at the O'Kay Congregational church, Rev. Hilsinger, of Platte Center, officiating. [Platte Center.]
WELCH--Funeral services for the late Mrs. William J. Welch were held at the Friends church in Monroe Friday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock. Mr. and Mrs. Isaiah Lightner, who have been spending the winter at Eureka Springs, Ark., came home to attend the funeral, and at the services Mr. Lightner spoke a beautiful tribute to the woman whom death had claimed. Mr. Lightner told of Mrs. Welch as he knew her. He told of her earnest efforts in the promotion of God's kingdom through the Sunday school. Mrs. Welch was a woman of many beautiful traits. She was a mother, a neighbor and a friend in the fullest meaning of the words. She possessed charms of mind and heart and that made friends of all who knew her and that retained these friendships throughout the years. The service was concluded with prayer and a talk by Rev. Parker of Genoa. Burial was made in the Friends' cemetery west of town. Members of the Knights of Pythias lodge and her many friends sent a wealth of exquisite floral offerings. [Monroe.]
CORNELIUS--
DEATH'S CALL IS SUDDEN - Attorney W.M. Cornelius Found Dead in His Bed Sunday Morning.
Sleeping peacefully in eternal rest Attorney W.M. Cornelius, well known member of the Nebraska Bar association, was found in his bed at the Meridian hotel about 10 o'clock Sunday morning. Death was due to a stroke of apopletic nature induced by rehumatism [sic] of the heart with which he had been afflicted for several years. The mystic call had evidently come to him while he was asleep during the night.
For at least four year [sic] Mr. Cornelius had suffered at intervals with rheumatism of the heart. During the last few months his condition was such as to cause him considerable worry, a fact which he shielded as much as possible from his friends and the members of his family. About a fortnight before his death he was stricken with a serious attack while attending to legal business at the court house. A few days later the effects of his sudden illness seemed to have passed off and he went again upon the streets, greeting his friends with his genial smile and attending to his legal business.
Saturday evening he was in good spirits and declared that he felt better than he had felt for weeks. Upon retiring he requested that he not be called early. Accordingly, Mrs. Cornelius made no effort to awaken him until about 10 a.m. Going to his door, she called him two or three times. Receiving no response she entered the room and found him dead. A physician who later examined the body stated that death must have come about 2 o'clock in the morning. The summons had evidently been sudden, for he had not moved from the position in which he rested.
Native of Pennsylvania.
William McCormick Cornelius was born on Christmas day, 1848, in Butler county, Pennsylvania.
As a young man he studied law in an attorney's office in that state and was admitted to the bar.
In 1874 he married Miss Lucrecia Dean. They continued to reside in Pennsylvania until the fall of 1879, when Mr. Cornelius came west, locating in Columbus. The following spring Mrs. Cornelius came out and joined him and they established a permanent home here.
Well Know [sic] as Attorney.
Mr. Cornelius soon attained a prominent position among Platte county attorneys and became well known among the members of the Nebraska State Bar association. After locating in Columbus he went into partnerhsip with Judge J.J. Sullivan. Some years later the partnership was dissolved when Judge Sullivan went on the bench, and Mr. Cornelius spent a year on the road as a traveling salesman, though continuing to make his home in Columbus. The nomadic life had no attractions for him, however, and in 1887, he and W.A. McAllister formed a parentship for the practice of law.
For twenty-four years the firm thus established was actively engaged in the practicing of law. It was dissolved three years ago when Mr. McAllister became postmaster, and Mr. Cornelius continued his legal business alone.
Funeral Services Tuesday.
Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Grace Episcopal church, Rev. W.H. Xanders officiating. Friends of the bereaved family filled the church, and many followed the remains to the burial spot in the Columbus cemetery. Special music for the service was rendered by the Grace church quartette. Bearers were chosen from among the attorneys with whom Mr. Cornelius had been much associated in his practice. They were: Judge J.J. Sullivan, of Omaha; A.M. Post, J.D. Stires, W.A. McAllister, Loius Lightner, C.N. McElfresh.
Mr. Cornelius leaves a sorrowing wife and one son, Dr. W.R. Cornelius, of Cody, Neb. Dr. Cornelius arrived in Columbus Monday noon in response to the message announcing the death of his father.
The Columbus Telegram, April 17, 1914
DIED
BLASER--Word reached Duncan Tuesday morning of the death of Mrs. Nicholas Blaser which occurred at Columbus Monday night. The family has many friends in Duncan and vicinity and the news of her death brought sorrow to many homes.
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After an illness of only a few days' duration Mrs. Nicholas Blaser, one of the pioneer residents of Platte county, passed away Monday night at 11:30 o'clock. Her health had been impaired for several months, but she was not seriously sick until the Thursday preceding her death. A complication of ailments then rendered her condition critical. Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the German Reform church, Rev. R. Neumarker officiating. Mrs. Blaser was a native of Aarwangen, Canton Berne Switzerland, where she was born July 4, 1840. There in 1863 she was married to Mr. Blaser. Together they came to America in the spring of 1867, locating in Butler township. Later they left for Illinois, only to return again in 1869 to take a homestead in Loup township. There they made their home until 1899, when they retired from active farm life and moved to Columbus. Mrs. Blaser is survived by her husband, seven sons and one daughter. The latter are: Nicholas, jr., Louis, John, Frank, Michael, Henry and Paul Blaser, and Mrs. Emma Oppliger. They were all here to attend the funeral with exception of Nichols, jr., who is in Oregon.BABCOCK--Succumbing to a nine weeks' siege of sciatic rheumatism, Mrs. H.E. Babcock died Wednesday at 2:15 a.m. at the family residence, 916 West Fourteenth street. For weeks she suffered intense pain, but she bore it bravely until it became so excrutiating that she became delirious and then lapsed into unconsciousness. For almost a week before her death she lay in a state of coma. Funeral services will be held at the residence at 2:30 p.m. today, and at the Congregational church at 3 o'clock. In the absence of the family's pastor, Rev. G.A. Munro, Rev. George F. Williams will conduct the services. A tribute from the pen of Rev. Munro will be read at the service. As Jennie Belle Powell, Mrs. Babcock was born in Battle Creek, Mich., October 18, 1862. There she grew to young womanhood and on December 24, 1885, she was married to H.E. Babcock, the ceremony being performed at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.B. Powell. Mr. Babcock was at that time studying law in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and they resided at Ann Arbor until he finished his studies. A few months later they came to Nebraska, locating first at Ord. After spending several years there they moved to Monroe whence they came to Columbus in 1898. Mrs. Babcock took a deep interest in church work. She was an active member of the Ladies' aid of the Congregational church as long as her health permitted. In past years she has also been prominently identified with Woman's club and W.C.T.U. activities. To Mr. and Mrs. Babcock were born seven children, of whom six are now living. They are Dora, Heman [sic], John, Fred, Earl and George. One child, Alden, died in infancy. The surviving members of the family were all with Mrs. Babcock during the last hours of her life. Several relatives and friends from a distance were also here, among them being: Mrs. Babcock's sister, Mrs. F.E. Brooks, of St. Louis; Mr. Babcock's sister, Mrs. J.D. Laverty, of Denver; his aunt, Mrs. H.A. Babcock, of Lincoln; and W.R. Ewing, of Chicago, a close friend of Mr. Babcock. They will all remain here for the funeral today, and others are expected to arrive this morning.
WELCH--After he had suffered for five years as a helpless invalid, death came to Robert Moses Welch on Good Friday. His condition was the result of two strokes of paralysis which he experienced in Omaha some years ago. A third stroke last Friday brought the final summons. Mr. Welch was a son of the late Jonas A. Welch. He was born on a farm near Shell Creek, July 30, 1877. While he was a little tot the family moved to Columbus. He attended the Columbus schools, and after being graduated from the high school went to the state university. After spending a year or two there he finished his education with special studies at the John Hopkins university, in Baltimore. Later he located in Omaha where he had employment as a bookkeeper and where he resided for some years. On May 10, 1906, he married Miss Mary Vratil, of Omaha. Two children, one boy and a girl, were born to them. About three years after his marriage he was stricken with paralysis. Returning to work too soon after having apparently recovered, he was stricken a second time. This stroke left him an invalid, helpless. It being apparent that chances of a complete recovery were slight, his mother, Mrs. Margaret Welch, had him brought to Columbus that she might have him cared for. His wife and children continued to reside in Omaha. Funeral services were held at the home of his mother at 1515 Platte street at 2 p.m. on Easter Sunday, Rev. George F. Williams officiating. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Besides his sorrowing wife and children, Mr. Welch leaves his mother, Mrs. Margaret Welch; four sister [sic], Mrs. Martha Watts, Mrs. Harry Newman, Mrs. George Galley, all of Columbus, Mrs. Will Fox, of Spalding; and two brothers, W.J. Welch, of Monroe, and Charles Welch, of Columbus.
The Columbus Telegram, April 24, 1914
DIED
RAGATZ--Henry Ragatz received word early this morning that his mother, Mrs. Caroline Ragatz, had passed away during the night at her home in Prairie DuSac, Wis. She was past 87 years old, and death was due ot her advanced age. Mr. Ragatz left today for Wisconsin to attend the funeral. He expects to return to Columbus Wednesday of next week.EVANS--
Death Calls John C. Evans.
John C. Evans, one of the early missionary workers of Nebraska and for many years a resident of Columbus died at St. Mary's hospital Tuesday. His death was due to a complication of ailments incident to his advanced years. Funeral services will be held at 3:30 today at the Congregational church, Rev. George F. Williams officiating.
Mr. Evans was born in Butler county Pennsylvania, October 22, 1838. In the year 1863 he was graduated from the Unviersity of Ohio, and four years later he finished the course at the Allegheny theological seminary. Most of his college expenses he paid with money which he earned by teaching school in various placed in Pennsylvania.
After being graduated from the theological seminiary he hald several pastorates in the United Presbyterian churches near Pittsburg, Pa. He gave up his work there in the fall of 1879 to bring a colony of settlers from Pennsylvania to Nebraska. He reached Columbus October 16, 1879.
For many years after locating in Columbus he was engaged in mission work in Nebraska, first for the United Presbyterian church, and later for the Congregational.
In December 1862, Mr. Evans married Nancy A. Gilliford at Tarentum, Penn. She passed away in Columbus in 1903, leaving a family of five sons and two daughters. They are W.S. Evans, of Columbus; Charles V., and Henry S. Evans, both of Blackfoot, Ida.; E.G. Evans of Denison, Tex.; Robert G. Evans, of San Francisco; Mrs. Clyde D. Smith, of Austin, Tex.; and Mrs. W.E. Skeen, of Wichita Falls, Tex.
Seven years ago, Mr. Evans was married again at Kearney and his wife, Mrs. Martha R. Evans survives him. Since their marriage they have made their home in Santa Ana, Calif. Mr. Evans' final illness began in January. Several weeks ago his condition became such that his son, W.S. Evans, was summoned from Columbus. He brought his father here that he might have careful medical attention at St. Mary's hospital.
Aside from the members of his immediate family, Mr. Evans leaves four brothers, of whom C.D. Evans, of Columbus, is the youngest, and three sisters.STOEFFEL--Mrs. C.C. Abts and Mrs. Elizabeth Roesch returned last evening from Sioux City where they were summoned on account of the death of their brother, John Stoeffel, jr. His death occurred at Sioux City Thursday of last week and resulted from blood poisoning. He was a son of John Stoeffel, sr., of Duncan, who was for some years a resident of Columbus.
BORNEMANN--Following an operation for appendicitis, William Carl Bornemann died Tuesday morning at St. Mary's hospital. He was stricken with a sudden attack of the ailment Wednesday of last week while working at his trade as a carpenter four miles north of town. He was taken to the hospital the following day where an operation was immediately performed. Prospects seemed bright for his recovery until Monday evening when his condition took a sudden change and he began to sink rapidly. Mr. Bornemann was a son of Mrs. Maggie Bornemann, 514 Seventh street. He was born near Columbus, November 16, 1889. About two years ago he married Miss Anna Lusche, of Richland, who with their little baby girl, survives him. Other immediate relatives are his mother, three brothers, Louis, Walter and Henry, and one sister, Minnie. Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the German Reform church. Rev. R. Neumarker conducted the service.
RIPP?--Mr. and Mrs. Peter Ripp received a telegram from Wisconsin last Monday informing them of the death of a nephew. Owing to the ill health of Mr. Ripp, whose condition they feared would not permit him to stand the trip, they did not attend the funeral.
The Columbus Telegram, May 1, 1914
DIED
GOGAN--The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gogan died Saturday evneing after a two days' illness. Funeral services were held at the Holy Family church Sunday afternoon.WATTS--Succumbing to an illness of some duration, Arthur Thomas Watts, well known resident of this vicinity, passed away April 25. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the Congregational church and were conducted by Isaiah Lightner and A.J. Alfred. Mr. Watts was born in Winfield, DuPage county, Illinois, March 25, 1862, being past 52 years of age at the time of his death. In 1869 he came with his parents and two brothers to Platte county, locating in the neighborhood which was named Wattsville in honor of his father's family. On February 10, 1886, he married Clara Matilda Larson. To them were born six children, of whom four survive the father. Members of his immediate family now living are his devoted wife, two sons, Clarence and Maynard; two daughters, Olive and May; his aged mother; two brothers, Charles and Ed; one sister, Mrs. W.E. Cole, of Kansas City. Many are the friends who grieve with the bereaved family in this sad hour. [O'Kay.]
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Arthur Watts, who died at his home at O'Kay last Saturday, was a member of the Modern Woodman lodge of Monroe, and enjoyed an extensive acquaintanceship in this section of the county. Before his death Mr. Watts himself selected the men who should serve as bearers at this funeral. They were D.W. Jenkinson, Paul Gertsch, Nels Nelson, John Gibbons, Mike Nansel, John Erickson.
[...and...]
Word reached Columbus the first of the week that Arthur Watts, a well known farmer, had passed away Saturday night at his home six miles northwest of Monroe. Years ago he and his parents lived in Columbus. Mr. Watts leaves a wife, two sons and two daughters. He was 53 years of age.JARECKI--Adam Jarecki, an old resident of this vicinity, died at his home Sunday after a long illness. The funeral services were held in the Catholic church Tuesday morning and burial was made in the parish cemetery. The services were largely attended, as Mr. Jarecki had hosts of friends in this part of the county. He was a native of Germany and was 83 years old.
VALNIK--Mrs. Andrew Valnik passed away at her home here Wednesday evening of last week. She had suffered for several months with lung trouble. She leaves her husband and a three months old daughter. Funeral services were held Friday at St. Michael's church at Tarnov, Rev. Fr. Kranut conducting requiem high mass. Burial was made in the parish cemetery. The bereved [sic] family has the sympathy of the entire community. [Cornlea.]
[...and...]
Mrs. Mary Volnik died Wednesday evening of last week after suffering for a few days with heart trouble. She was twenty years old. Mrs. Volnik was formerly Miss Mary Kuta. She was married to Mr. Volnik three years ago. Her husband and a little babe seven weeks old survive her. Other immediate relatives are two brothers and a sister who came over from Poland a month ago. Funeral services were held at St. Michael's church Friday morning and burial was made in the parish cemetery.PATSCH--After suffering ten months with an ailment resulting from an injury to her knee, Miss Elizabeth O. Patsch, daughter of Mrs. Odelia Patsch passed away at her home, 203 East Fourteenth street, Friday night at 10:50 o'clock. For the last six months she was confined to her bed, while the tide of life ebbed slowly away. Though she suffered intense pain at times, she bore it patiently. Miss Patsch was born in Columbus, August 28, 1888. She grew to womanhood here and received her education in the local schools. Funeral services were held at St. Bonaventure's church Monday, with requiem high mass at 9 a.m. Burial was made in the parish cemetery. The passing of Miss Patsch brought sorrow to many Columbus homes. She leaves her mother, three brothers and three sisters. The latter are Al, Josephine and Margaret, who reside at home; John Langley of Omaha, Martin Langley, of Papillion, Mrs. R.H. Nissley, of Monmouth, Ill. Among those who were here from a distance to attend the funeral were: Mrs. Frank Stupfel, of Sioux City, Ia.; Mrs. Peter Cunningham and son, James of Omaha; Harold Dollarhide, of Aspinwell, Ia.; John Langley, of Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. R.H. Nissley, of Monmouth, Ill.; Mr. and Mrs. Martin Langley and son, of Papillion.
SISSLE--Complications incident to her advanced age caused the death Monday evening of Mrs. Susan Sissle at her home, 1815 Platte street. She had been ill for nine weeks. Mrs. Sissle was a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, where she was born May 2, 1833. She came to Platte county with her husband thirty-one years ago. Mr. Sissle passed away three years ago. For many years they resided on a farm three miles northwest of Columbus. Mrs. Sissle's maiden name was Susan Rothrock. A sad feature of her passing was the fact that she was the last member of the Rothrock family. Mrs. Sissle leaves two daughters, Emma Sissle and Mrs. W.H. Moore, and one son, Henry Sissle. Funeral services were held at the family residence at 2 p.m., Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church, officiating. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery.
The Columbus Telegram, May 8, 1914
OEHLRICH--
DEATH OF PROMINENT BANKER -- H.P.H. Oehlrich, Long-Time Resident of Columbus, DIes After Three Months' Illness.
Heart trouble with which he had been confined to his bed for more than three months caused the death of Herman P.H. Oehlrich, president of the Commercial National bank, at his home at 808 Lewis street Thursday forenoon at 11 o'clock. Funeral services will be conducted at the residence Sunday at 2 p.m. by Rev. W.H. Xanders, rector of Grace Episcopal church.
Mr. Oehlrich, who has long been prominent in Columbus business circles, was born in Elmshorn, province Holstein, German [sic], May 17, 1852. As a young man he entered the service of the German government as a bookkeeper in the revenue department.
In 1868 he came to the United States, believing that this country offered better opportuities for advancement to energetic young men. He located first near Grand Island where he farmed for a year. In 1869 he took a position as bookkeeper for a prominent Grand Island firm.
In 1872 Mr. Oehlrich came to Columbus and found employment as a bookkeeper for the firm of Henry Brothers. Four years later he formed a partnership with his brother, Atnold Oehlrich, and from that time until 1900 they were engaged in the general merchandising business under the firm name of Oehlrich Brothers.
Mr. Oehlrich was vice president and one of the original stockholders of the Commercial National bank in the establishment of which he assisted in 1888. In 1900 he and his brother dissolved partnership, and he took a position in the bank. At the same time he conducted a hardware store which he sold out about four years ago to Johannes brothers. About seven years ago he succeeded to the presidency of the bank, to which he gave his entire time from then until his final illness caused him to give up active business.
Mr. Oehlrich took an active part in launching a number of business enterprises in Columbus. He was one of the incorporators of the Columbus Auditorium company which built the North theatre building and he served on the board of directors up to within a few days of his death. He was also a member of the original company which erected the Thurston hotel in 1890, selling his stock later to George Lehman. He was also one of the principal stockholders in the Columbus Sewer company. In addition to his other business enterprises, he owned and managed a large thoroughbred cattle and horse ranch near Richland, which he started with his brother, Atnold, many years ago.
About thirty years ago, Mr. Oehlrich married Miss Laura Cornils at Grand Island. She passed away at their home in Columbus about a year ago. He leaves one brother, Arnold Oehlrich, and a cousin, Carl Hinsching, both of Columbus. Another brother, Hugo, died at Clarks, Neb., a little more than a year ago. Mr. Oehlrich was first stricken with heart trouble about five years ago. Last year he realized that his health was becoming poorly again, and he went to Germany to rest and take treatment. He derived little benefit from the trip, however, and he was again stricken three months ago.
He was for years a prominent member of the Elks, and the bearers at the funeral will be selected from among the members of the local lodge.CLASSEN--Funeral services for the infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Classen were held Friday at the church and burial was made at the St. Bernard cemetery. The child passed away Wednesday of last week.
FONDA--
GENOA MILLER DRINKS ACID - Despondent Over Business Matters Harry Fonda Takes His Own Life.
Harry Fonda, chief owner of the Fonda Mill & Elevator company of Genoa, committed suicide near his home shortly before noon Wednesday by drinking two ounces of carbolic acid, according to reports which reached Columbus a few hours later. While Mrs. Fonda was preparing the noon meal, he left their home, walked over the brow of the hill north of Genoa and then in a secluded spot drank the fatal drops. Worried by his failure to return, Mrs. Fonda called in help and started on a search for him. She found the body a short time later, but life was already extinct.
It is understood that Mr. Fonda left letters to his brother, who is head of the elevator and mill business at St. Edward, to the president of the Genoa bank at which he transacted business, to the stockholders of his company and to his wife. The contents of the letters are unknown to The Telegram.
Mr. Fonda was about 45 years old and had resided at Genoa for fully thirty years. He leaves a wife and seven children, and also three brothers, Samuel and William, of St. Edward, and Frederick, of Omaha.
Dispatches from Genoa to the state papers give the following explanation of the circumstances attending his death:
"About two years ago Fonda incorporated his mill and elevator business moving his flouring mill about a mile from its old site on Beaver creek to its present site near his elevator. He installed new machinery and the move and establishing himself was much more expensive than he anticipated and also more than he had subscribed. Since incorporation the concern had not paid dividends, although doing a good business. Stockholders had been pressing him and this morning an attorney from Fullerton called on him as a representative from stockholders with arrangements in view to appoint a receiver for the business. It seemed that it took Mr. Fonda very much by surprise and so dishearted him tht he become temporarily insane, yet all his letters are clear and lucid, detailing why business had not paid, slow collections temporary repairs and small margins. The attorney seemed to think Fonda in good spirits.
"A coroner's jury returned a verdict that Mr. Fonda had come to his death through a cause unknown to it.
"It also developed during the inquest that Mr. Fonda had been moody and apparently despondent for some time, owing to the fact that competition was so strong and profits so small in his business."HAUBOLD--Succumbing to an illness of two years' duration, Mrs. George Haubold passed away at the family residence on West Eighth street Wednesday. Funeral services will be held at the residence at 3 p.m. today, Rev. R. Neumarker officiating. Burial will be made in the Columbus cemetery. Mrs. Haubold was a native of Germany. She came to America with her husband eight years ago and to Columbus about three years ago. She leaves her husband and three children, Henry, Walter and Hildegard.
OKEY--Mrs. C.C. Gray is expected to arrive in Columbus tomorrow evening to visit with Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Gray for a few weeks, until Mr. Gray comes up from Roswell, N. Mex. They will then locate permanently in Columbus again. Mrs. C.C. Gray has been in Mendota, Ill., for the past two weeks, having been summoned there last week on account of the critical illness of her mother, Mrs. John Okey. The patient died two days after Mrs. Gray arrived at her bedside. She was past 80 years old and her death was due largely to her advanced age. Mrs. Okey was not generally known to Columbus people, though she visited here once some years ago.
EICKMEYER--Complications incident to her advanced years caused the death of Mrs. Caroline Eickmeyer at St. Mary's hospital last Saturday morning. Mrs. Eickmeyer was for many years a resident of the Platte Center neighborhood. Being in feeble health she entered St. Mary's hospital eight years ago and was cared for there until her death. Funeral services were held by Rev. Meissler at the German Lutheran church Sunday afternoon and burial was made in the local cemetery.
CASTELLO--Mary Elizabeth Castello passed away Saturday afternoon at the home of her mother, Mrs. Miles Castello, on West Fifteenth street. Her death followed a lingering illness of long duration. She was a native of Massachussetts where she was born April 10, 1856. Funeral services were held Tuesday at 9 a.m., at the Catholic church, Rev. Fr. Cyriac officiating.
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Mr. and Mrs. McKee, of Fullerton, Mary, Anna and Mike Murphy, and Mrs. Dick McGuane and Mrs. Mottles, all of Platte Center, and Peter Carey and his mother, of North Bend were in Columbus Tuesday to attend the funeral of the late Mary Elizabeth Castello, whose death occured at the hospital last Saturday. Funeral services were held at the Catholic church, and burial was made in the parish cemetery. Miss Castello is survived by her mother, Mrs. B. Castello, five sisters, Mrs. McKee, of Fullerton, Mrs. Frank Miles, Mrs. Charles Hageman and Mrs. Adam Smith, all of Columbus; Mrs. Otto Husting, of Beaver Dam, Wis., and one brother, John Castello, of Chicago. Mrs. Husting and Mr. Castello were unable to come for the funeral.WEISER--After a brief illness the six-weeks old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Weiser died last Sunday. The remains were taken to Fremont for burial. [Platte Center.]
The Columbus Telegram, May 15, 1914
DIED
BEECROFT--H.D. Beecroft, a former business man of Columbus and Genoa, died at his home in Omaha Tuesday noon, falling victim to an attack of paralysis the previous day. It was his first real illness since childhood. Several years ago Mr. Beecroft conducted a general store in the old Eimers building, on Thirteenth street. He moved to Omaha about nine years ago. His son, William Beecroft, still resides here, and went to Omaha Monday in response to a message informing him of his father's illness. Mrs. Anna Brodfuehrer, a friend of the family, will attend the funeral. Mr. Beecroft is survived by his wife, three sons and five daughters.HELLBUSCH--After a week's illness with pneumonia, Mrs. Anna Hellbusch passed away at the home of her son-in-law sixteen miles north of Columbus, Wednesday morning. Mrs. Hellbusch was a native of Germany, where she was born December 26, 1846. She has resided in Platte county for many years. Funeral services will be held at the home of her son-in-law, at noon Saturday, and later at the Oldenbusch Lutheran church fifteen miles south of Columbus. Rev. Holm will conduct the services. Mrs. Hellbusch leaves one son, Rev. C.W. Hellbusch, of Castlewood, S.D., and two daughters, Mrs. Fred Mueller and Mrs. William Maurer, both residing sixteen miles north of town. She is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Henry Luers, of Columbus, Mrs. William Hoeffelman, of Grand Prairie township and one brother, H.L. Kuenemann, who resides eight miles north of Columbus.
HAHN--Funeral services were held last Friday afternoon at the German Lutheran church for the late Louis Hahn, a veteran of the Civil war well known in Columbus and vicinity. Mr. Hahn passed away May 5 at the soldiers' home in Grand Island where he spent the last years of his life. Mr. Hahn was born Germany, June 22, 1834. He came to the United States as a young man and served his adopted country in the Civil war. He came to Nebraska in 1871, locating near Columbus. Here he became a member of Baker Post No. 9, G.A.R. Members of the Post turned out in a body to attend the funeral services and escorted the remains to their resting place in the Columbus cemetery. Mr. Hahn leaves seven sons and two daughters, Edward, Harry, Howard, Albert, Lewis, Fred and John Hahn, Mrs. Albert Kummer, who reside near Columbus, and Mrs. Amanda Watkins, of Wallhalla, S.C. The last-named daughter was unable to come to Columbus in time for the funeral. Mr. Hahn is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Margaret Eschenbach, of Williamsport, Pa.
OEHLRICH--Services over the remains of the late H.P.H. Oehlrich, prominent Columbus banker, were held at the residence, 808 Lewis street, last Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev. W.H. Xanders conducted services. A large company of friends gathered at the Oehlrich home at the appointed hour. Members of the fire department and those of the Elks lodge attended in a body. The bearers, selected from the membership of the Elks, were Gus Schroeder, E.H. Chambers, J.C. Byrnes, George Rambour, Gus Viergut and A.D. Becker. After the services the remains were laid to rest in the Columbus cemetery. Among the people who were here from a distance to attend the funeral were Mrs. Helene Oehlrich and sons, John and Hugo, of Clarks, Neb.; John Reimers, Oscar Reimers, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Weitzel, all of Grand Island; Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Reimers, of Fulerton.
BRYGGS--Peter Bryggs, city garbage man, died suddenly Sunday evening at his home at Ninth and Olive. He had been suffering with the grip for a week or two, though his illness was not considered at all serious. Sunday he felt quite well. About 9:30 p.m., however, he suffered a sudden stroke and within ten minutes the spark of life flickered out. The physician who was summoned when his condition became critical attributed death to appoplexy. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock at the Catholic church and burial was made in the Catholic cemetery. Mr. Bryggs was 63 years old. Since coming to Columbus somewhat more than two years ago he had been employed as a garbage man. His wife passed away a year ago last February. He leaves five sons, John, of Madison; Joe and George, residing in Washington state, Lonnie and Mike, who live at home, and three daughters, Mrs. Sophia Sczwczyk, who lives in Washington state, and Anna and Helen, at home.
LaRUE--Van Buren LaRue, a former resident of Columbus, passed away at Leavenworth, Kans., a few days ago, death resulting from intestinal trouble. The remains were brought to Columbus Wednesday by his son, Charles LaRue. Funeral services were held at Henry Gass & Co's. undertaking parlors Wednesday afternoon and burial was made in Columbus cemetery. The services were conducted by Rev. J.M. Bothwell. Mr. LaRue was 70 years of age, and was a veteran of the Civil war. He leaves two sons Will, of Columbus; Charles, of Iowa, and one daughter residing near Ames, Nebraska.
The Columbus Telegram, May 22, 1914
DIED
LOUIS--Mrs. Katherine Louis, an early settler of Columbus township, passed away last Sunday afternoon at the family home half a mile east of the city. Her death was due to a stroke of paralysis which she experienced four weeks before, and which left her helpless. Funeral services were held at the residence at 2 p.m. yesterday and at the German Reform church in Columbus at 2:30 p.m. Rev. R. Neumarker conducted the services. Mrs. Louis was the widow of Jacob Louis, who enjoyed the distinction of being one of the first settlers in this vicinity, having come here in 1856. Nine years later Mr. Louis went back to Ohio where he married Mrs. Louis, then Miss Katherine Engel, who had come over from Germany six years before. Together they came to Columbus where they were destined to spend the remainder of their days. Mr. Louis died in 1909. Mrs. Louis was more than 72 years of age, having been born April 2, 1842. She leaves three sons Charles, Jake and George, all residing east of Columbus, and one daughter, Mrs. Katherine Stevenson, who also resides on a farm between Columbus and Richland. Among the relatives who were here yesterday to attend the funeral were her nephew, George Engel, and family, of Clarks, Neb.GRUENTHER--Friends of Mr. and Mrs. C.M. Gruenther were deeply grieved to hear of the death of their son, Lester, which occurred at the family home in Platte Center last Sunday morning. Lester was in school last Friday, apparently as robust and healthy as any of his young companions. Saturday he was stricken with an acute attack of pneumonia and within twenty-four hours the spark of his young life had flickered out. Lester was 10 years old. Funeral services were held at the Catholic church in Platte center at 9:30 a.m., Tuesday. Among the Columbus people who attended the services were: Mr. and Mrs. Adam Smith, Mr. and Mrs. C.J. Carrig, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Carrig, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lachnit, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Herrod, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Berney, Mrs. Fred Lecron, Miss Ethel Gossard, I.L. Albert, William O'Brien, James O'Brien, S.J. Ryan, J.C. Byrnes, Mark Burke, Judge Ratternman, Jacob Greisen, Phillip Greisen.
The Columbus Journal, May 28, 1914
DIED
HAZEL--Mrs. Katherine Hazel, an old resident of Columbus and for seven years a patient at the hospital, passed away at the age of 74, on Tuesday May 26.KLASSON--Anna Klasson of Petersburg, died of complications at the hospital Tuesday. The remains were buried at Lindsay.
CONNORS--Eleanor Veronica Connors of Lindsay, the fifteen year old daughter of John Connors, died at the hospital the first of the week.
SMOLL--Katherine Smoll, aged 90, died at her home at 7th and Kummer, Sunday afternoon. Funeral services were held at St. Anthony's church, Monday.
The Columbus Telegram, May 29, 1914
DIED
SMOLL--Mrs. Catherine Smoll, who had the distinction of being one of the oldest persons in Platte county, passed away in her little home in south Columbus last Sunday. Mrs. Smoll was past 90 years of age, and her death was due to a physicial [sic] breakdown incident to her advanced years. She was bedridden for at least a month before her death. For the last seven or eight years she had lived alone, refusing to make her home with any of her relatives or friends for fear she might become a burden to them. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday morning at the Polish Catholic church by Rev. Fr. Kuberik and burial was made in the parish cemetery. Her son, John Smoll, came here from Osceola and took charge of the funeral arrangements.DUCEY--Arising from his death bed at St. Mary's hospital last Saturday afternoon while delirious, Michael Ducey gave the hospital attendants an anxious chase through the neighborhood before he was found and returned to his room. Clad only in his night clothes, he slipped out, it is understood, at a time when there was no one at hand to quiet him. He ran a distance of several blocks and entered a tent in the yard at the A.L. Rush home. When he was found, it appeared from his talk that the unfortunate man was possessed of the delusion that he was about to be placed on the operating table and fear of the ordeal had caused him to flee. It is thought the exposure may have hastened his death which occurred at 5 a.m., Monday. Mr. Ducey was a well-known resident of Lindsay, in which neighborhood he spent most of the years of his life. He was 45 years old and unmarried. His health had been in an impaired condition for some time prior to his death. The remains were shipped to Lindsay for burial.
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Misses Emma Ducey and Sadie Moore, J.J. Sullivan and Wilson Gable, of Omaha, were here to attend the funeral of Michael Ducey Wednesday.KLOSSEN--J.H. Bellar received word Monday evening of the death of his sister Mrs. Peter Klossen, of Petersburg, which occurred at St. Mary's hospital in Columbus that day. The remains were brought to Lindsay Tuesday evening. Funeral services were held at the Holy Family church Thursday morning. Burial was made in the St. Bernard cemetery. Mrs. Klossen leaves a husband and six children, the eldest a boy of fourteen, and the youngest a year-old babe. She also leaves her aged mother, four sisters and three brothers. Death is always sad, but it is doubly sad when it takes from a family a loving mother.
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Following an operation for an internal disorder, Mrs. Anna Klossen [sic], of Petersburg, Neb., passed away Monday afternoon at St. Mary's hospital. Mrs. Klosson, whose maiden name was Bellar, was born in Iowa in October, 1876. Her parents later moved to Platte county, and the family now resides at Lindsay, to which place the body was shipped Tuesday for burial. Mrs. Klosson had been ill for some time and had been in the hospital here for several weeks. She leaves a husband and a large family of children.WERNER--Mrs. Ignatz Werner died Tuesday of last week at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Joseph Hockenschneider. Death was due to heart trouble. Mrs. Werner was born in Glaseldorf, in Mahoven, Austria, July 4, 1843 and there she grew to womanhood. In 1867 she was married to Ignatz Werner and together they brought their family to America six years later, locating first at Grand Rapids, Mich. In 1880 they came to Nebraska and settled at Humphrey. Mrs. Werner was the mother of eight children, seven of whom are still living. They are Joseph, now Brother Osmundus, of St. Louis, Mo.; Louis, of Jenning, La.; Mrs. Joseph Hockenschneider, of Humphrey; Mrs. F.J. Herbes, of McHenry, Ill.; Ignatius, now Brother Pivus, of Cleveland, O.; Thomas, of Humphrey, and Mrs. Mary Smith, of Wadsworth, Texas. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Fr. Elorentius at St. Francis church at 9 a.m. Friday. [Humphrey.]
CHRISTENSEN--Jens Christensen, of Alberta, Canada, died on Tuesday of last week, at the home of his parents. Funeral services were held on the 20th in the West Danish church, on the Looking Glass. Mr. Christensen left his Canadian homestead last January, and came down for a visit with his home people. Soon after his arrival here his health began to fail, and steadily declined. [Joliet Township.]
HAGEL--After an illness of nearly a year's duration Mrs. Katherine Hagel died Tuesday morning at St. Mary's hospital. She was past 74 years of age. For the last seven years she made her home at the hospital, being in feeble health because of her advanced age. Funeral services were held Thursday morning at 8:30 o'clock at the Catholic church and burial was made in the parish cemetery. Mrs. Hagel leaves a son, Henry Tylle, and two step-sons, George and Frank Hagel, all of Columbus. She was a native of Germany.
CONNORS--Eleanor Veronica Connors, daughter of John Connors, of Albion, died at St. Mary's hospital Monday evening. She was brought to the hospital Saturday after having been ill with appendicitis for a week. The appendix had broken and the resulting infection caused her death. She was only 15 years old. The remains were shipped to Albion Tuesday for burial.
HENNESSEY--Mrs. John Hennessey, of Platte Center, Neb., died on Friday, May 15, 1914, after a short illness of ten days with pneumonia. She was sixty-six years old. Mrs. Hennessey was born May 10, 1848, in Kerry County, Ireland. Her maiden name was Mary Ann Francis. She was married to John Hennessey, October 10, 1867 at Leslowell, Ireland. She came to the United States with her family in 1869 and settled in Omaha. She later came to Platte County in 1874 and settled on a farm. Fourteen children blessed the marriage, of whom five are dead. Robert, John, Edward, Thomas and Rose Ann. The six daughters and three sons surviving, are: Mrs. H.J. Burke, Mrs. T.H. Gleason, Mrs. P.H. Roberts, Mrs. J.R. Cooney, Mrs. J.G. Lee, Miss Gertrude Agnes, William James and Leo Hennessey, who were at the bedside in the closing hours of her life. Three sisters, Mrs. Margaret Kugel, of Omaha, Mrs. William Callahan, of South Omaha, Mrs. D.F. Donoghue, of Platte Center and two brothers, Robert Francis, residing in Ireland and James Francis, of Omaha, are left to mourn her death. The deceased was a loving mother and an affectionate wife. Her life was a model of a true christian and her executive ability was remarkable. She leaves a heritage of extraordinary virtures to her sorrowing family and relative. The funeral services were held Monday in St. Joseph's church and were largely attended. Rev. Father Laborius was celebrant and gave a consoling address to those present. The pall bearers were Michael Murphy, R.C. Regan, Robert Wilson, T.J. Cronin, Charles Doody and R.M. McQuane. The many beautiful floral offerings were carried to the cemetery by the flower girls--Vesta Cronin, Sarah Carrig, Mary Reilly and Irene Cooney. Relatives from a distance who attended the last obsequies were Mrs. Kugel, James Francis and Mrs. F. Walker, of Omaha; Mrs. Callahan, Mrs. Edward Slate and Miss Anne Callahan, of South Omaha, John and Edward Fogarty and Mr. and Mrs. Dave Rowden, of Milford. Officers and many members of the Knights of Columbus were presesnt to express their sympathy, as well as friends form Columbus, Humphrey, Tarnov and Lindsay. St. Anne's Alter society were in the procession to honor the deceased member of the society, escorting the remains from the home to St. Joseph's church. K.A.K. [Platte Center.]
GRUENTHER--Alfred Gruenther, who had been called home on account of the death of his brother, Lester, left Sunday for his school at St. Paul, Minn.
MOORE--Mrs. J.E. Cossairt received the sad news Thursday of lat week that her brother, Peter Moore, had been drowned that day, at Pierce. He was a miler, and was employed at the Pierce mill. He fell from the foot bridge while crossing the mil stream. Mrs. Cossairt left at once for Battle Creek, the home of his parents, where the funeral was held. Mr. Moore was well known here, having resided here several years ago.
The Columbus Telegram, June 5, 1914
DIED
POSTLE--I.R. Postle, who resided for many years near Creston, died last Sunday at his farm adjoining Leigh. He was sick only a few hours. Mr. Postle was a brother-in-law of Mrs. Anna Postle, of Columbus, and members of her family attended the funeral which was held Tuesday. Mr. Postle left one son Perry, and two daughters Mabel and Edith, the latter of whom is married and lives in Wyoming.HEASLER--John Heasler, aged 70, was found dead in a chair at his home last Monday afternoon by Mrs. Heasler. He had been in feeble health for some time, but had not complained of feeling ill. Monday afternoon he sat in his favorite chair and apparently dropped off to sleep. Mrs. Heasley went over to call on one of the neighbors, thinking he was merely resting. On her return she attempted to awaken him, only to find that he had gone to the sleep eternal. Mr. Heasler was a native of Switzerland where he was born October 9, 1844. He retired from active business about seven years ago. For the last six years he had been blind. His death was due to heart failure. Funeral services were held at the German Reform church Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Rev. R. Neumarker conducted the services. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Mr. Heasler left his wife, five daughters and two sons. They were Mrs. Kittie Richards, of Salina, Kans.; Mrs. S.F. DeVore, of Missouri Valley, Ia.; Mrs. Albert Gerber, of Clarks; Mrs. G. W. Chase, of Shelby; Stella Heasler, who is taking a training course in the Wise Memorial hospital at Omaha; John Heasler, of Loup City and Albert, of Portland, Ore. All the children were here to attend the funeral, with exception of Albert.
MAGILL--Succumbing to an illness of nearly a year's duration, Mrs. Addie L. Magill, wife of John F. Magill, passed away at the family home, 1904 K street, last Sunday. Funeral services were held at the residence Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church officiating. Mrs. Magill was a daughter of A.W. Clark. She was born in LaSalle county, Illinois, January 25, 1868. She came with her parents to Platte county in 1880 and the family located on a farm five mies northeast of Columbus. In 1887, she was married to John Magill. Mrs. Magill was a member of the Royal Neighbors lodge. She leaves her husband, three sons and one daughter.
JOHNSON--Andrew Johnson, father of Mrs. C. A. Linstrum, passed away Wednesday morning at 4 o'clock at St. Mary's hospital. His death was due to complications incident to his advanced age, which was nearly 80 years. Funeral services conducted by Rev. D.A. Leeper Thursday afternoon at the Linstrum home. Mr. Johnson was born in Smoland, Sweden, November 10, 1834. In 1860 he married Miss Emeline Mangnusson. Three chidlren were born to them, of whom only the one daughter, Mrs. Linstrum, is now living. In 1868 the family came to America, locating first at LaPorte, Ind. From there they went to Yazoo City, Miss., where Mrs. Johnson died. Mr. Johnson was a farmer by occupation and after his wife's death he lived for some years in Illinois. In 1896 he came to Columbus to make his home with Mr. and Mrs. Linstrum.
BEIERMANN--Mrs. Bering went to St. Bernard Saturday to spend a few days with her brother, Mr. Beiermann, whose wife ____________. [Humphrey.]
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The sad news of the death of Mrs. William Beiermann spread through the community last Saturday morning and brought a distinct shock to many homes. Mrs. Beiermann had been in failing health for a year. [St. Bernard.]SWANSON--The remains of the little child of Mr. and Mrs. E.O. Swanson arrived here Friday evening and on Saturday were taken to Genoa for burial. [Lindsay.]
GLEASON--Stephen N. Gleason, for more than forty years a resident of Platte county, died Wednesday at St. Mary's hospital. Two years ago he was stricken with rheumatism which rendered him helpless. A year ago his condition became worse and he was brought to St. Mary's hospital where he was bed-ridden from that time until death came to relieve his suffering. His affliction turned into dropsy, which caused his death. The remains were shipped to Platte Center and funeral services were held in the Catholic church there at 9:30 a.m. today. Mr. Gleason was a native of Ireland, where he was born 66 years ago. He came to Platte county in 1872 and has resided for many years on a beautiful farm a mile and a half from Platte Center. He leaves five daughters and two sons, Mrs. Pat Cronin, Mrs. John Foley, Misses Katie, Margaret and Agnes Gleason, and John and William Gleason.
??--C.F. Gratz has returned from Sioux City, where he was called ten weeks ago by the critical illness of an aunt, who suffered an attack of paralysis which resulted fatally.
SOUCHA--The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Soucha died Wednesday of last week. The tot was less than two weeks old. Burial was made Thursday in St. Michael's cemetery.
The Columbus Telegram, June 12, 1914
DIED
WELCH--Lloyd Herbert, the 12-year-old son of Charles Welch, died Monday at the farm between Monroe and Genoa. Last winter Lloyd was seriously sick with diphtheria, and it left his health in an impaired condition. Last Saturday he went out on a picnic and played in the damp grass. As result of the exposure pneumonia set in and death followed within forty-eight hours. His was the third death in the Welch family in less than three months. About ten weeks ago his aunt, Mrs. Will Welch, passed away at her home near Monroe. Less than two weeks later his uncle, Robert welch died in Columbus. Little Lloyd was born in Columbus February 24, 1902. He lived here and attended school until early this spring, when the family moved onto the farm. The remains were brought to Columbus and funeral services were held at the Episcopal church Wednesday after-afternoon [sic] at 2 o'clock, Rev. W.H. Xanders officiating. Burial was made in Columbus cemetery.HIGGINS--Nine fourth degree Knights of Columbus were in Schuyler last Sunday to attend the funeral of George Higgins, a well-known Schuyler man and member of the order. Mr. Higgins died in St. Catherine's hospital at Omaha, Thursday of last week after an eight year siege of tuberculosis. He was thirty-three years old and unmarried. The services were held in the Catholic church at Schuyler Sunday morning. Those who attended from Columbus were J.W. Herrod, John Ratterman, F.H. Morrow, Steve Ryan, Frank Gerharz, William O'Brien, P.J. Hart, Fred Gerber and Lawrence Herrod.
GLEASON--Funeral services for the late Stephen Gleason, whose death occurred at St. Mary's hospital in Columbus, were held at St Joseph's church Friday morning. Burial was made in St. Patrick's cemetery. Those from out of town who were here for the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. John Regan, son, Robert, and daughter, Nellie, of Omaha; C.J. Carrig, Jerry Carrig and M__ Johanna Burke, of Columbus; Mrs. Bridget Carey and son, Peter, of North Bend.
McPHILLIPS--The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James McPhillips died Saturday morning when only two days old. Burial was made at St. Johns cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. McPhillips have the sympathy of the entire community in their hour of breavement [sic]. [Postville.]
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A baby girl was born to Mr. and Mrs. James McPhillips, June 3. The little life was not destined to survive long, however, for an June 6, the tot succumber [sic] to hemmorhage of the lungs. The little body was laid to rest in St John's cemetery. [Cornlea.]
The Columbus Telegram, June 19, 1914
DIED
CALLENDER; LUTZ--
TWO DIE IN SWOLLEN WATERS--Roy Callender and Herman Lutz Go Down in Sight of Friends Helpless to Aid Them.
Swollen waters in the vicinity of Columbus took a toll of two human lives during the past week. Last Friday afternoon Roy Callender, 8-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. M.O. Callender, 1318 Speice street, went down to his death in the Black ice pond near the Loup river bridge. Before the excitement caused by the drowning of the child had waned, Herman Lutz, aged 15, son of Mr. and Mrs. C.A. Lutz, lost his life in Guter's lake just southeast of the city Sunday afternoon. In both instances friends of the dying boys witnessed the tragedies, but were powerless to aid them because the waters of the ponds had been swollen by the heavy rains of the preceding days and were icy-cold.
Children Go in Wading.
About 4 o'clock Friday afternoon little Roy Callender and his chum, Oscar Poeffel, 8-year-old son of Pius Poeffel, wandered down to the Black ice pond to go in wading. Apparently neither realized that the heavy rains had made the pond much deeper than usual. Roy waded out beyond his depth and in an instant he disappeared from view.
Thoroughly frightened by the fate of his companion and evidently fearing that he might be held responsible if he told of it, the little Poeffel boy hurried back to town. Not a word did he utter to anyone of the tragedy.
At supper-time Mrs. Callender, who had supposed Roy to be playing about the neighborhood, became frightened at his failure to return. After a vain search for him in the vicinity of the home, she phoned to her brother, Manager E.D. Todenhoft of the Meridian hotel. Mr. Todenhoft made inquiries and learned that the two boys had been seen going toward the river. He and Mrs. Callender drove out to the bridge, saw nothing of the children, and returned.
After reaching town they learned that the little Poeffel boy had come home, and from him they finally succeeded in drawing out an admission that they had been down to the Black ice pond together. The child piloted his father, Mr. Todenhoft and Mrs. Callender to the spot, and there they found Roy's clothing on the bank. A searching party was quickly formed, but it was not until 9 o'clock that the body was found by Otto Bolte. It lay in water about five feet deep. Physicians worked over the body for an hour, but their efforts to restore respiration were vain.
As soon as the body was found a message was sent to the boy's father who was on his ranch twenty miles from North Platte. He reached Columbus Saturday morning.
Funeral services were held at the family residence at 3 pm. Monday, Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church, officiated. Little Roy was born in Columbus December 17, 1905, being 8 years, 5 months and 24 days old at the time of his death. His grandmother, Mrs. Augusta Todenhoft, came from Stapleton, Neb., to attend the funeral.
Herman Lutz Victim of Cramps.
Herman Lutz, who was drowned in the water of Guter's lake Sunday afternoon, was a victim of cramps. He was considered one of the best boy swimmers in town. The plunge in the cold water, however, apparently brought a sudden cramp, for he sank like lead.
The boy was employed for the summer on Henry Newman's farm, southeast of town. Sunday he rode to town on his pony, and ate dinner with the folks at home. Early in the afternoon he set out again for the farm.
It is said that as he passed Guter's lake several of his young friends called to him to come in swimming with them. He stopped, shed his clothes and plunged into the water to swim over to them. It seemed that he sank without a struggle.
The boys ran to the Albert Steger home and then back to Ralph Coolidge's summer cottage, which is on the bank of the lake, and gave the alarm. Mr. Coolidge and Jack Stovicek hurried to the place and within a few minutes Jack was diving for the body. For more than an hour he kept up the search. The water was ten feet deep, fully five feet deeper than usual, and intensely cold, but he continued diving and searching along the bottom until J.C. Byrnes and Sam Bowers arrived from town with a large sein. Jack remained in the water, weighting down the sein as it was pulled around and he was first to feel the body as the net caught it.
Herman Lutz was born in Columbus June 19, 1899. He attended the public schools, and would have been a sophomore in the high school next fall. He is survived by his parents, four sisters and six brothers.
Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the home, and later at the German Reform church. Rev. R. Neumarker officiated. Burial was made in Columbus cemetery.EDGAR--The remains of Mrs. Edgar which were shipped here after her death last week were buried in the Richland cemetery Sunday afternoon.
SMITH--Mrs. H.W. Smith passed away Tuesday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John H. Brock. She had been ill for several months. Funeral services were held at the Brock home at 2 p.m. Thursday, Rev. Harms officiating. As Elizabeth Gearn, the deceased was born May 23, 1840. She was married to Mr. Smith November 19, 1857. They celebrated their golden wedding anniversary seven years ago. Mrs. Smith leaves her husband and eleven sons and daughters.
The Columbus Telegram, June 26, 1914
DIED
??--Mrs. William O'Brien returned Thursday from Peoria, Ill., where she attended the funeral of her brother.RUSSOM--Sam Russom, of Fullerton, veteran sation [sic] agent for the Union Pacific, died suddenly at Enid, Okla., Tuesday, according to messages received by friends in Columbus. He was in Enid on a business trip and dropped dead whie in the act of boarding a trip for home. For almost thirty years past Mr. Russom served the Union Pacific in the capacity of station agent at Fullerton. All the railroad boys along the branch knew him and he had many friends in Columbus. He was a member of the Masonic lodge here and arrangements have been made to bring the body here for burial by Lebanon lodge.
FLAHERTY--Morgan Flaherty, of Fullerton, clerk of the district court of Nance county, died at St. Mary's hospital about 2 o'clock last Saturday morning. Mr. Flaherty had been sick slightly more than two weeks with an affliction of the stomach and intestines and had been in the hospital about ten days. For nearly a week before his death it was known to those who watched anxiously by his bedside that the hand of death was approaching. The body was shipped to St. Edward Saturday noon. Most of his relatives reside there and the funeral services were held there Monday.
ANDERSON--Mrs. Mary Anderson, mother of A.C. Anderson, of Columbus, passed away at her home in Downs, Kans, at 6 o'clock Tuesday morning, according to a telegram received by Mr. Anderson a few hours later. The deceased and her husband were among the early settlers of Platte county. They resided on a farm near Leigh for nearly thirty years, leaving Platte county about nine years ago for Kansas. Mrs. Anderson was afflicted with the asthma and it was hoped tht the change of climate would be beneficial to her health. Her old trouble, however, with complications due to her advanced years, caused her death Mr. and Mrs. A.C. Anderson left Tuesday evening for Downs, Kans., to attend the funeral. They were accompanied by Mr. Anderson's sister, Mrs. Nels Hasselbach, of St. Edward; his cousin, Mrs. George Rich, of St. Edward; and Dr. L.P. Carstenson, wife and mother, of Columbus.
KEELER--John Keeler passed away Wednesday evening of last week at his home northeast of Monroe. Death was due to complications incident to his advanced years. Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon and burial was made in the New Hope cemetery north of town. [Monroe.]
DUKE--Thomas Duke passed away June 15 at the home of his niece, Miss Mary Ducey, following an illness of several weeks' duration. Mr. Duke was a native of Lindsay, Canada, where he was born June 2, 1833. He came to Lindsay, Neb., about eight years ago to make his home with his widowed sister, Mrs. Ann Ducey, who passed away five years ago. Since her death he has been living with his nieces and nephews. He never married. He lived a good life and was always ready to help others when the opportunity came. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at the Holy Family church, Rev. Fr. Ewald officiating. The remains were laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery. [Lindsay.]
KEELER--John Keeler passed away at his home at Wattsville, June 17, at the age of 81 years. Mr. Keeler was born in Sutton, England, January 20, 1833. As a youth he came to America. He served as a volunteer in the Civil war, and was wounded several times. With his wife he came to Platte county in 1872. Mr. Keeler leaves his wife, three daughters, Mrs. Erick Johnson, Mrs. Anthony Sellmeyer and Mrs. Ben Nelson, and one son, Fred. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at the Congregational cemetery [sic] and burial was made in the New Hope cemetery.
The Columbus Telegram, July 3, 1914
DIED
ECHOLS--Daniel J. Echols died at 5:45 o'clock last evening at his home on the Meridian road a mile north of Columbus, following a period of unconsciousness dating from last Thursday. While sitting in a chair which he had occupied for ten long months the final summons came to him. The funeral service will be held at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Echols, Fifteenth and Platte streets at 10:30 o'clock Saturday morning. Members of the Columbus volunteer fire department will attend in a body, and the service at the grave will be conducted by the brethren of Lebanon Masonic lodge. Though young in years, Mr. Echols had the misfortunte to become afflicted with Bright's disease seven years ago last March. His physician thought it due to an organic weakness resulting from an illness of diphtheria in childhood. Despite all efforts to combat it, the disease finally and fully undermined the health of its victim. Had he lived till the 30th of next October Mr. Echols would have been 30 years old. He was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Echols, and was born and reared in Columbus. Leaving school before graduation he entered business life, and with very promising prospects for success. He held clerical positions with the grocery firm of the Henry Ragatz Co. and with the Columbus State bank. At one time he was secretary of the Columbus fire department. When illness compelled him to forsake business and other activities here Mr. Echols went to Excelsior Springs, Mo., for a brief residence. There he met and won his life partner. He was married December 11, 1909, to Miss Lillian Miller. His wife and a little daughter, Frances Norwood, survive him. He leaves, also, two brothers, Phillip and Francis Echols, and one sister, Mrs. S.A. Whitney, all of whom reside in Columbus.KRZYCKI--Alex Krzycki, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Krzycki, who reside on rural route 5 out of Columbus, passed away Tuesday at his home near St. Paul. His death was due to typhoid fever. His parents were with him when the final call came. Tony Krzycki, Mr. and Mrs. Lonnie Jaworski, Joe Gutzmer and other relatives left Columbus Thursday morning to attend the funeral which will be held today. Mr. Krzycki leaves a wife and several children.
VALLIER--Dr. A.E. Vallier has been advised of the unexpected death of a brother, James Vallier, last Tuesday at Taylorsville, Ill. Only the week before the brother was visiting in Columbus, and at that time was apparently in robust health. No detailed information concerning his death has been received here, except that the funeral was held yesterday, and the doctor was unable to attend. Mr. Vallier was forty-eight years old. For twelve years he was a Presbyterian minister, but in recent years he had been a traveling salesman in northern Illinois territory. His wife, one son and one daughter survive him.
RUSSOM--Funeral services for the late Sam Russom, of Fullerton, who dropped dead at the railroad station in Enid, Okla., Tuesday of last week, were held at the Gass undertaking parlors Sunday afternoon. The body was shipped up here from Enid, arriving Friday night. A large number of his friends from Fullerton and other towns along the Union Pacific branch came down on a special train to attend the services. Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church, conducted the services at the undertaking parlors, and the Knights of Pythias took charge of the services at the Columbus cemetery, where the remains were laid to rest in the family lot.
LAWRENCE--The remains of Mrs. Phoebe J. Lawrence, who died last Saturday at College View, Neb., were brought to Columbus Monday evening for burial. Services were conducted at the grave in the Columbus cemetery Tuesday forenoon by Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church. Mrs. Lawrence was a native of Ohio where she was born more than 85 years ago. For some time prior to her husband's death, the family resided on a farm on the Loup river road just southeast of Columbus, of late years Mrs. Lawrence made her home in College View. It was her request that she be buried in the Columbus cemetery where her husband and a son were laid to rest. The body was brought up here from College View by Mr. and Mrs. E.C. Morrow.
DURKOP--Stricken with paralysis Wednesday of last week, Mrs. Maria S. Durkop died Friday afternoon at the home of her son, William, about three miles east of Columbus. Mrs. Durkop had been in feeble health for several weeks as result of a lighter stroke which she suffered about two months before her death. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the German Lutheran church, Rev. Herman Miessler officiating. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Mrs. Durkop, whose maiden name was Maria Sophia Schreiber, was born in Province Brandenburg, Germany, October 15, 1847. In 1867 she was married to Mr. Durkop, and together they came to the United States in 1872, locating first in Texas. In 1892 they came to Columbus and made their home on a farm north of town. Mr. Durkop died about fifteen years ago. Eleven children were born to them, five of whom preceded the parents to the great beyond. The six surviving are: William Durkop, who resides three miles east of Columbus; Otto Durkop, residing thirteen miles north of Columbus; Mrs. Louis Behle, residing four miles north of Columbus; Mrs. Arthur Grossnicklaus, residing near Platte Center; Mrs. Ernest Schaecher, who lives six miles northeast, and Miss Mary Durkop, who makes her home with her brother, William. Mrs. Durkop was a devout member of the German Lutheran church.
The Columbus Telegram, July 10, 1914
DIED
MILLER--The families of Mr. Plagemann and August Fickel were in Osceola last Sunday to attend the funeral of the little Miller girl, who died Thursday of last week. Early last spring the little girl had an attack of scarlet fever, and had been in very poor health ever since. [Rural Route 5.]JASPER--Mathias Jasper died Monday evening at 8 o'clock. His death was due to asthma and dropsy. He leaves a wife and five children. Funeral services were held at the St. Bernard church Thursday morning at 9 o'clock.
WATTS--Mrs. Maggie Watts died Friday at the home of her sister, Mrs. Ida Watts. She had suffered for a long time with a cancer of the left side. She grew to womanhood in this community and was married to Edward Watts July 4, 1891. Had she lived another day she would have passed her twenty-third wedding anniversary. Mr. and Mrs. Watts started housekeeping on their farm north of Monroe. Later they sold the farm and moved to Monroe, then to Ohio and back again to Monroe. They moved to Arcadia and later to Loveland, Colo., in the hopes of finding climatic conditions that would benefit her health. When they learned the serious nature of her affliction she desired to come home and spend the rest of her days with relatives and friends. At her bedside when she passed away were her husband, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Larson; her brother, Joseph; her sisters, Mrs. Tillie Watts, Mrs. John Smith, of Omaha, Mrs. George Perkins, of Omaha, Mrs. Thomas Hill, of Loveland, Colo.; Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Watts and Clarence Watts. Funeral services were held Sunday at the Good Hope cemetery. Surviving relatives who were not here are two brothers, Frank Larson, of Arcadia, and Harry, of the Looking Glass, and two sisters, Mrs. Fred Russell and Mrs. Atkins, of Arcadia.
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Stricken with a cancerous growth, Mrs. Ed Watts passed away last Friday at the home of her sister, Mrs. Fred Watts. She had been ill for some time. Mrs. Watts was formerly Miss Maggie Larson and was well known in the Wattsville and O'Kay neighborhoods, and also in the Looking Glass community which was her early home. All her acquaintances were her friends and held her in high esteem. She will be remembered especially for her beautiful voice which was often heard in songs of praise in the old church where her funeral services were held. Mrs. Watts was 40 years of age. She leaves a devoted husband, her aged parents, seven sisters and three brothers. Rev. Soundy, of Genoa, conducted the services at the home and at the O'Kay church Sunday afternoon and interment was made in the New Hope cemetery. A large number of friends from Monroe and the surrounding country turned out to pay their last tribute of respect to the departed, and to express their sympathy for the bereaved family who have lost three of their members in the last year. [O'Kay.]MIEMIEC--After an illness of several weeks' duration, John Mismiec [sic] died at 11:40 p.m., July 3, at his home on West Seventh street. His condition had been critical for two weeks prior to the time of his death. Miemiec was a native of Austria where he was born 65 years ago. He had resided in Columbus for many years. Funeral services were held Monday morning at 9 o'clock at St. Bonaventure's church, Rev. Fr. Cyriac officiating. Burial was made in the parish cemetery. Miemiec leaves a widow and large family of children.
KRINGS--Joseph Peter Krings, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Krings, of Cedar Rapids, Neb., died at St. Mary's hospital Tuesday. The child was afflicted with pneumonia. He was brought to the hospital Thursday of last week. The remains were shipped to Cedar Rapids Wednesday for burial.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, July 17, 1914
KOCH--Arnold W. Koch, son of the late Frank Koch, died at the hospital Monday from paralysis of the intestines. He had been ill for some time. Arnold was just past 19 years of age. He resided on a farm nine miles northeast of Columbus. Funeral services were held at the Shell Creek church Wednesday.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, July 24, 1914
PAULSIN--Word reached Columbus yesterday that a child of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Paulsin, who reside near Lindsay, drank carbolic acid by mistake Tuesday. The fatal dose was taken about 6 o'clock and the child died at 9 p.m. after suffering agonies for three hours.SVOBODA--J.W. Svoboda and family were summoned to Omaha last week on account of the death of Mr. Svoboda's brother, Joseph Svoboda, which occurred Friday. Funeral services were held at Abie, Neb., Tuesday. Mr. Svoboda was interested in the Lindsay State bank and other banking institutions in Nebraska. At the time of his death he was president of the Security bank, of South Omaha.
LUCHSINGER--Olga Agatha, 11-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Luchsinger died at the family home on rural route No. 1, ten miles north of Columbus, at 5:30 a.m. last Saturday. She had been afflicted with heart trouble for more than a year. The child was born September 26, 1902, and spent her life in Platte county. Funeral services were held at the Shell Creek church Monday at 3 p.m., Rev. Mueller officiating. Burial was made in the Shell Creek cemetery.
VEIK--Mrs. Frank Veik passed away at her home southeast of town a few days ago, her death being due to complications incident to old age. As Celia Mundy, she was born in Austria in the village of Mahren March 9, 1838. In 1866 she was married to Frank Veik, and with him she came to America forty-one years ago. She was the mother of five children, three of whom are living. They are Frank, Louisa and Joseph. Funeral services were held at St. Francis church Wednesday, Rev. Fr. Kurzer conducting requiem high mass.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, July 31, 1914
MULLEN--C.M. Gruenther and J.C. Byrnes __e in Omaha Thursday morning to attend the funeral of Arthur Mullen's ___e daughter who died Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Mullen was in Columbus __sday morning to attend the democratic state convention, but was called __e about noon because of the child's _ical condition. It is understood __e that she was a victim of heart __ble.HELPHAND--Whooping cough caused the death of Hannah, the 3-year-old daughter of David Helphand, Thursday morning. The child had been afflicted with the malady for six weeks. She was born October 12, 1910, being past three years and nine months of age at the time of death. The remains were taken to Omaha today for burial in the Jewish cemetery.
DRINNIN--__________Galesburg, Ill., in response to a telegram saying his brother, William Drinnin, had died. Mr. Drinnin leaves his wife, one son, and five daughters. ____ spent last winter and the spring __ in Bilox, Miss., for his health, but ___ed to fail when he moved back to Galesburg.
PHRAM; SAUNDERS--Richard and Lloyd, sons of Wil. Phrman, and Laville, son of R.S. Saunders, were drowned in the waters of Beaver creek near St. Edward about noon last Sunday. Word of the tragedy first reached Columbus in a phone message to Jerry Langan from his brother at Platte Center. Mr. Langan, at Platte Center, is an uncle by marriage of the Phrman boys. The two Phrman boys were about 10 and 12 years of age, and their companion was a lad of 10 summers. They were swimming in the creek and got into a hole. An older Phrman boy escaped from the death trap and spread the alarm. The bodies were recovered during the afternoon. Funeral services were held Tuesday at St. Edward.
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Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Langan went to St. Edward last Sunday in response to word that two of Mrs. Langan's nephews had been drowned. [Platte Center.]POLCIN--Mary, the 12 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Polcin, met a tragic death the first of last week when she drank the contents of a bottle of carbolic acid. The funeral services were held Thursday of last week at the Holy Family church. Among the friends from a distance who attended the funeral were Mat Schumacher and daughters, Helen and Marie, and Mrs. Nick Schiltz, of Platte Center; Alfred Hittner and family, Peter Schumacher and family, Mr. and Mrs. Will Siebler, of Cornlea. [Lindsay.]
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Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hittner, Mrs. Peter Schumacher and Mr. and Mrs. Will Siebler were in Linsay [sic] Thursday of last week to attend the funeral of the former's niece, Marie Polcin, who met a tragic death the preceding Tuesday. Mrs. Siebler remained with Mrs. Polcin for the rest of the week.BENDER--A baby boy arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bender Saturday morning. The little life was no destined to remain long on this earth, for it flickered out three hours after birth. The little one was laid to rest in the Cornlea cemetery Saturday. Mr. and Mrs. Bender have the deepest sympathy of the community in their hour of bereavement.
Mr. and Mrs. John Bender, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Bender, of Humphrey, were here Saturday to attend the funeral of the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Bender.
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Mr. and Mrs. Guido Gilsdorf were summoned to the Henry Bender home at Cornlea Saturday on account of the death of their infant child. They remained there several days.
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Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bender, Mr. and Mrs. John Bender, and children motored to Cornlea Saturday to attend the funeral of their little nephew. After the funeral they went to Peter Bender's to spend the day.??--Mrs. Cauley received word that her brother had died in Omaha. She and the children left at once to attend the funeral. [Humphrey.]
The Columbus Daily Telegram, August 7, 1914
GOSSARD--Stricken with typhoid fever, Geo. Waldo Gossard, son of Mr. and Mrs. F.H. Gossard, of Columbus, passed away in the hospital at Sheridan, Wyo., Thursday of last week. He had been ill for about two weeks, though he was not confined to bed until four days before his death. Word of his illness reached the Gossard home here Wednesday evening of last week. Carl and Miss Ethel Gossard left at once for Sheridan but their brother passed away just a short time before they reached the bedside. Waldo, as he was known to his friends, was born on a farm in Burt county March 10, 1890. In 1900 the family moved to Fremont, where Waldo attended the public schools. He was graduated from the Fremont High school in 1908. He spent a year on the "O.W." and "Powder River" ranches near Sheridan, Wyo., and then took an engineering course in the university at Lincoln for three years. There he became a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Later he returned to the "O.W." ranch where he was employed when stricken with the fatal illness. The remains were brought to Columbus by Carl and Miss Ethel Gossard and by Glen Tunk, of Central City, a frat. brother of Waldo, who was visiting in Sheridan. They reached Columbus Saturday night. Funeral services were held at the family residence Sunday at 3 p.m., Rev. George F. Williams, pastor of the Federated church, officiating. Among the relatives and friends who were here from a distance to atend [sic] the services were an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. I.M. Dawson, of Madison; Stewart Livingston, Howard Newlon and Myron Bodell, all of Fremont; Hugh Howard, of Norfolk; Glen Tunk, of Central City; Mr. Dresher, of Grand Island. After the services the body was taken to Blair for burial, members of the family accompanying it. Waldo Gossard was a young man of exemplary habits, possessed of those qualities which make a man a favorite among his fellow-men. He leaves a father, mother, two sisters, Ethel and Marie; and three brothers, Carl and Earl, of Columbus, and Ralph, of Sacramento, Calif. Ralph arrived from the west Sunday evening, too late to attend the funeral. He will remain here two or three weeks.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, August 14, 1914
TONYON--Miss Mary Tonyon, daughter of Henry Tonyon who resides on rural route 1 out of Humphrey, passed away at St. Mary's hospital Thursday morning at 11 o'clock. She had been ill for some time, but had been in the hospital only a few days. The remains were shipped to Humphrey last evening and funeral services will be held in the Catholic church there next Monday at 9 a.m. Miss Tonyon was a native of Platte county. She was born March 6, 1885.SIXBERRY--Stricken with appoplexy about 9 o'clock Thursday evening of last week, Truman Sixberry, who was keeping bachelor quarters on the farm of his brother, David, six miles south of Columbus in Polk county, died three hours later. Mr. Sixberry was 67 years of age, having been born in Ohio in 1847. He never married, and for some years had made his home with his brother, David. Some time before Truman's death, David Sixberry suffered a stroke of paralysis, and he is now in St. Mary's hospital under the care of physicians. He is not expected to live. Two other brothers, Henry Sixberry, of Pilger, and Cyrus Sixberry, of Bayard, Neb., a nephew, E.W. Sixberry, of Mills, Neb., and a niece, Mrs. George Corbett, of Palmer, Neb., were summoned to Columbus by messages announcing the death of Truman Sixberry. The funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the farm home and burial was made in the Pleasant View cemetery in Butler county. Rev. George F. Williams, pastor of the Federated church of Columbus, conducted the services.
IRWIN--Born while the home was quarantined for small pox, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Irwin contracted the malady and died August 8 at the family residence, Twelfth and Adams streets. The little tot and a twin brother were born July 30. The girl caught the contagion the first of last week, but the little boy apparently has not been infected. Burial was made Saturday night. Other children of Mr. and Mrs. Irwin who were sick have fully recovered, and the famlly will be released from quarantine next ____.
TIERNEY--Misses Anna and Minnie Murphy left Monday for Lemar, Ia., to attend the funeral of their cousin, the late Rev. Father Tierney.
PETERSON--Funeral services for the late Mrs. Christian Peterson were held last Friday at the East Danish church. She leaves a husband, four sons and two daughters. All were present at the funeral with exception of Mrs. Louis Knudson, who resides in Texas, and could not get here in time. Mrs. Peterson was one of the first settlers in this part of the county.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, August 21, 1914
RORER--FRANK RORER ENDS HIS LIFE -- Well Known Columbus Man in Fit of Despondency Inhales Gas From Cook Stove.
Seated in a chair in the kitchen of his home at 909 West Fifteenth street where he had inhaled the gas from three open burners of the cook stove, Frank Rorer, assistant ashier [sic] of the German National bank, was found dead about 3:25 a.m. Monday. The gruesome discovery was made by his daughter, Miss Emily, who had been awakened by the odor of gas coming into her sleeping room which was directly over the kitchen. Miss Rorer at once summoned Dr. W.S. Evans, the family physician, and Clarence Sheldon, neighbor and intimate friend of her father. They arrived within ten minutes, but found that life had been extinct for at least two hours. It is believed Mr. Rorer committed the deed in a fit of despondency.
Mr. Rorer had remained at home all day Sunday and had retired shortly after 7 p.m. His daughter looked into his room between 10 and 11 and he seemed to be sleeping peacefully. She did not awaken him, but went on up to her room on the second floor.
According to the physician, Mr. Sheldon and Coroner Henry Gass, who made an official investigation of the affair Monday morning, Mr. Rorer must have arisen about midnight. He drew a rocking chair into the kitchen and set about deliberately to take his life. He stuffed strips of cloth into the cracks around the doors leading into other parts of the house, probably for the purpose of preventing the gas from getting to his daughter's room. He made no effort to stop up the cracks about the door opening onto the back porch. He then opened wide three of the burners of the gas stove. Mr. Rorer evidently intended to leave a note, possibly explaining the cause of his act, for a pencil and a sheet of paper were found by his chair. The gas fumes must have overcome him more rapidly than he had anticipated, for no word was written on the paper.
Miss Rorer was awakened by the scent of the gas. Thinking that she might have failed to shut the stove off completely when she had used it earlier in the evening, she descended to the kitchen. As soon as she saw the situation she threw open the windows and doors and dragged the chair with her father's body in it onto the back porch, thinking to revive him if life was not extinct. She then summoned Dr. Evans and Mr. Sheldon.
Had Spells of Despondency.
C.C. Sheldon, who knew Mr. Rorer better, perhaps, than any other man knew him, believes that he committed the act in a fit of despondency. In speaking of his friend's untimely death yesterday, Mr. Shelon said: "After the death of his only son, Mark, in 1901, and the death of his second wife less than a year later, Mr. Rorer suffered periodical spells of depression, more commonly, perhaps, called 'the blues.' He grieved deeply over their loss and the passing of time did not seem to mitigate his sorrow. He often spoke to me of his son's death and seemed to brood over it. Being in this frame of mind, he allowed trifling matters to worry him more than he would have otherwise. During the last two of three summers he complained about the excessive heat, saying he did not see how he could stand it. However, of late, he seemed to have brightened up somewhat and to have taken a more cheerful view of life."
His friends are certain that financial affairs could not have caused him to terminate his life. He and his daughter owned a section of good farm land in Sherman county, two residence properties in Columbus, and he also had bank stock and other holdings. He made a trip to his Sherman county farm last week and found that the crops would be poor this year. That may have been a factor in bringing on his last spell of despondency, think his friends.
Native of Illinois.
Mr. Rorer was born in McHenry, Ill., July 19, 1851. His early life was spent in that state. On October 26, 1876, he married Miss Mary Cummings at Clifton, Ill., where he was engaged in the hardware business. To them were born one daughter, Emily, and one son, Mark. Mrs. Rorer died in Illinois in the early '80s.
In 1888 Mr. Rorer, together with his son and his daughter, came to Columbus from Clifton, Ill., with S.N. McDill. Mr. Rorer, Mr. McDill and C.H. Sheldon, who had been their fellow-townsman in Clifton, then erected the Mercantile company and launched in the mercantile business, Mr. Rorer and Mr. McDill handling the hardware department. Later they sold out to the Grays, following the death of Mr. McDill.
Mr. Rorer then went into the grain business, buying out an interest in the Becker & Welch elevator which occupied the site where now stands the large Hord elevator. Mr. Shldon took over the Welch holdings, and for some time Messrs. Rorer and Sheldon conducted the business.
In the eary '90s they sold out to the Omaha Elevator company, and Mr. Rorer took a position as assistant cashier in the Commercial National bank. He served the institution in that capacity until five years ago when he resigned to take a similar place in the German National.
On January 31, 1893, he married Miss Ella Lembach. The death of his son, Mark, occurred in September, 1901. Mark was at that time serving as bookkeeper in the Commercial National bank, and father and son were almosts inseparable. The death of the young man, believe friends of Mr. Rorer, first caused the periods of despondency which the father later suffered. The following year, Mrs. Rorer passed away. Since that time Miss Rorer has kept house for her father.
Funeral Wednesday.
Funeral services for Mr. Rorer were held at the family home Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock. They were conducted by Rev. G.A. Munro and Rev. G.F. Williams. Mr. Rorer's aged mother, Mrs. Samantha Button, arrived Tuesday evening from McHenry, Ill., to attend the funeral. His sister-in-law, Mrs. L.G. Rorer, of Gilman, Ill., was also here.
Mr. Rorer was a member of no lodges, but he took much interest in the Y.M.C.A. and gave considerable time to assisting in furthering the work of that institution.KENOYER--Frederick Kenoyer, father of C.S. Kenoyer of Columbus, died last Monday in the hospital at Fremont where he had been bed-ridden for about five weeks. His death resulted from a physical breakdown due to his advanced years. Mr. Kenoyer was born in New Albany, Ind., October 16, 1835. Thirty-one years ago he came to Nebraska, locating on a homestead in Dawson county. Fifteen years ago he moved to Hastings. Together with his son, C.S. Kenoyer, he came to Columbus nine years ago and started the Columbus Rug factory. After residing here a year he turned the business over to his son and went to Fremont where he has since been engaged in the same line of business. He leaves six daughters and three sons, of whom Mrs. T.E. Scranton of Omaha, and C.S. Kenoyer were with him when death came. The son and daughter took the body to Hastings for burial Wednesday beside that of their mother. Funeral services were held under auspices of the Masonic lodge.
HUSMAN--Following a stroke of paralysis, August Husman, a well known farmer residing five and a half miles south of Columbus, passed away at his home last Friday. Mr. Husman suffered the first stroke just one week prior to his death. The physician summoned to attend him found that he was afflicted with other complications and that he could not hope to survive. Mr. Husman was a native of Germany where he was born fifty-six years ago. He came to America at the age of 26 years and located in Chicago. After spending six months there he came to Coumbus and engaged in farming. He pursued that vocation until his death. About twenty-seven years ago he married Miss Lena Maak. She and their three sons and one daughter survive him. The latter are Will and Albert, who farm the Lisco place south of town, and Otto and Martha, who live at the family home. Mr. Husman was a member of the Sons of Herman and the A.O.U.W. lodges. Members of Herman Sons turned out in a body to attend the funeral which was held Sunday afternoon. Services were first held at the farm home at 1 p.m., and then at the German Evangelical Protestant church in Columbus at 3 o'clock. Rev. R. Neumarker conducted the services. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery.
TONYON--A number of Cornlea people went to Humphrey Monday to attend the funeral of Miss Mary Tonyon who died at St. Mary's hospital in Columbus Thursday of last week.
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Funeral services were held Monday morning at St. Francis church for the late Miss Mary Tonyon who passed away Thursday of last week at the hospital in Columbus. [Humphrey.]SVEHLA--MEETS DEATH UNDER AUTO -- Machine Turns Turtle, Pinning Richland Farmer Underneath--Dead When Found.
John Svehla, a well known farmer residing about nine miles north of Richland, was found dead beneath his wrecked auto on the hills between Richland and his home last Sunday afternoon. So far as is known no one witnessed the accident. Judging from appearances at the scene, it is said, one of the tires must have blown out just as the car started to descend a hill at a rapid rate of speed, causing Svehla to lose control of the machine. The auto, a light roadster, evidently rolled over and over with its driver for a distance of nearly 200 feet before coming to a stop. When found later by passersby, Svehla was lying dead beneath the overturned machine, and the back of the seat rested heavily on his chest. His death may have been due to strangulation.
It is said that Svehla had purchased the car only a few days before and had not yet become proficient at steering it. The car turned turtle with him earlier in the day, but no damage was done at that time. The second, and fatal accident, occurred while he was on his way home from Richland where, it is understood, he had been celebrating with some of his friends.
Svehla leaves a wife and three small children.SEVERIN--FARMER MEETS HORRIBLE DEATH -- Falls on Pitchfork Handle Which Penetrates Intestines--Rain Delays Efforts to Save Him.
His intestines badly torn by the handle of a pitchfork onto which he had accidentally fallen while at work in a field, John Severin, a well known young farmer residing 5 miles southeast of Leigh, died at St. Mary's hospital at 12:25 p.m. Sunday.
The accident occurred Wednesday of last week while he was assisting in the work of stacking oats in one of the fields on his farm. While loading bundles on a hayrack, he misstepped and fell backward off the rack. He struck on the handle of a pitchfork which was stocking firmly in the ground. It penetrated his body to the extent of seven inches, terribly lacerating the intestines.
Physicians from Leigh and Columbus were quickly summoned. The injured man suffered untold agonies until the physicians arrived and administered drugs to relieve the pain. Arrangements were made at once to hurry him overland by automobile to St. Mary's hospital where the doctors thought they might have a chance to save his life by an immediate operation on the injured intestines. A heavy rain storm came up, however, and the downpour made it impossible to bring him here until Thursday morning. The operation was then performed, but his condition was hopeless.
Mr. Severin was a native of Germany where he was born May 7, 1880. He farmed near Leigh for some years and was one of the popular and progressive young farmers of that community. He leaves a wife and three children. The body was taken by automobile to his home near Leigh Sunday night, and funeral services were held there Tuesday.WHITTEN; WHITTEN--Mr. and Mrs. David Whitten, pioneers of Boone county, lost their lives in a runaway at Albion last Friday, according to word that reached Columbus the following day. The two pioneers, both seventy years of age, were out in their buggy watching the activity incident to the visit of a small circus to Albion. The horse took fright at the elephants and ran away. Mr. and Mrs. Whitten were thrown heavily from the buggy, and both died in a short time from the injuries. They were the parents of Ed Whitten who was employed for a year at the Purity Drug store in Columbus, and they often visited him here. That was about four years ago. Ed afterwards managed a drug store at Fremont.
McCULLOUGH--Mark Burke left Tuesday evening for Maxwell, Neb., to attend the funeral of an aunt, Mrs. Mary McCullough, who died Monday night. Mrs. McCullough was one of the pioneer women of western Nebraska. She has made her home in Maxwell, formerly McPherson, Neb., for the last forty years. "Buffalo Bill" Cody boarded at her home when he first came to Nebraska nearly half a century ago.
POACEK--A baby boy was born to Mr. and Mrs. Peter Poacek last week, but the little tot passed away six hours after birth. Burial was made in St. Michael's cemetery Monday.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, August 28, 1914
CONNER--Complications which set in during a long siege of rheumatism caused the death last Saturday of William Conner, a well known farmer residing about nine miles northwest of Columbus. Mr. Conner was stricken with rheumatism last spring. Heart trouble followed. He was a native of Pennsylvania, born September 16, 1852. He has farmed in Platte county for a number of years. Funeral services were held at the family home at 10 o'clock Monday morning, Rev. D.A. Leeper, pastor of the Methodist church of Columbus officiating. Burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Mr. Conner leaves a wife and a family of ___________.
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Funeral services for William Conner, who passed away at his farm home northeast of Monroe Saturday, were held at the home Monday and burial was made in the Columbus cemetery. Mr. Conner was a member of the Modern Woodman lodge at Monroe and the following pallbearers were selected from its membership: Charles Potter, D.W. Jenkinson, Jacob Smith, Thomas Clayburn, Albert Schram and Henry Smith. [Monroe.]BRUDNEY--The 7-months-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Brudney died last Monday. Funeral servcies were held at St. Michael's church at Tarnov and burial was made in the Tarnov cemetery. [Platte Center.]
The Columbus Daily Telegram, September 4, 1914
GARDNER--JOE GARDNER CRUSHED TO DEATH -- Popular Switchman Caught Between Car and Loading Platform--Coroner's Jury Blames Railroad.
Crushed between a Union Pacific freight car and the loading platform at the Elevator Roller Mills about 7:50 a.m. Tuesday, Joe Gardner, a popular switchman, received internal injuries that resulted in his death at St. Mary's hospital shortly after 9 o'clock. So firmly was he wedged into the trap that it was necessary to saw off the ends of some of the platform boards before he could be extricated. He retained consciousness until after he had been taken to the hospital. A post mortem examination revealed the fact that internal hemmorhage caused his death. Though the body was scarcely marked, it was found that seven ribs were broken and the internal organs were crushed out of place.
Mr. Gardner was a son of B.H. Gardner, a retired farmer residing in Albion. He was born in Boone county March 25, 1890, being in his twenty-fifth year at the time of his death. He commenced railroading at Columbus about three years ago, first holding a job as car-checker in the Union Pacific yards. Later he was given a position in the freight house, and from there he went to switching. Tuesday he was serving as yardmaster, substituting for James Armstrong who was off duty on account of illness. Joe was possessed of unusual musical talent and was a member of the Columbus band, and the Orpheus orchestra. He was a favorite among his numerous friends. He leaves a father, mother, one brother and a sister. His parents came down Tuesday noon and took the remains to Albion Wednesday. Funeral services were held at the Catholic church there yesterday. Joe was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and a delegation from the local lodge, together with the band boys, went to Albion to attend the funeral.
Coroner's Jury Investigates.
A careful investigation into the causes of the accident was made by Coroner Henry Gass and a jury of six men at the inquest held at the Gass undertaking parlors Wednesday forenoon. Members of the jury were Frank Kersenbrock, Harry Graves, Fred Lanz, Frank Hagel, Jess Newman and Shell Clark.
Paul Jaeggi, manager of the mill, testified that about 7:50 a.m. Tuesday while he was supervising matters around the mill, he heard a cry coming from a string of cars which the switch engine had run in on the mill siding. He ran around to the warehouse platform on the south side of the track and saw Gardner pinched in between a car and the edge of the platform. He called to the other brakeman, Dave McNair, and to the mill men to come to Gardner's aid, while he hurried to the depot to notify Agent Brown and have a physician summoned.
David McNair, who was working with Gardner on the switching crew, said that a moment before the accident Gardner was standing on the warehouse platform beside the car. The switch engine was being used to "spot" a car for loading at the mill. It was at the end of a string of sixteen feight [sic] cars. Gardner gave a signal to push the string a few feet west and McNair turned to signal the fireman. It is supposed that Gardner must have gotten caught in the death-trap at that moment, possibly in an attempt to get down between the cars and uncouple them. When McNair looked at him again Gardner gave the stop signal. McNair did not notice the other man's predicament at the moment, but passed the signal on to the firemen. He said the cars moved three or four feet before coming to a full stop. Soon afterwards the call from Mr. Jaeggi made the other member of the switch engine crew aware of the accident. They hurried to the spot and assisted in sawing away the platform to release the injured man. He was placed on a stretcher and carried to the Oxford restaurant, whence he was taken to the hospital in an automobile after being examined by a physician.
Henry F. Brunhober, the fireman, corroborated McNair's statement. Dr. Kroefoot, who conducted the post mortem examination, told of the extent of the injuries.
Jury Visits Scene.
After listening to the stories of the witnesses, the members of the jury visited the scene of the accident. They found the car still standing on the mill track. On each side of the track the platforms came up to within seven inches of the sides of the car, leaving no room for a man to ___ between the car and the edge of the platforms. The place where the boards had been sawed away to liberate the victim of the accident, was about three feet from the east end of the south platform. It appeaared as though he might have been caught near the end of the platform about the time he gave the stop signal and have been rolled along between the car and the platform to that point before the wheels stopped. The platform is located on the railroad right-of-way and members of the jury declared it to be a veritable death trap.
The Verdict.
A half-hour's conference was held by the jury behind closed doors and then the following verdict was given out, signed by all six men:
"We, the members of the coroner's jury, do find that Joe Gardner, an employe of the Union Pacific Railroad company, came to his death as result of an accident that happened to said Joe Gardner at 7:50 a.m., Tuesday, September 1, 1914, by his being crushed between a freight car and the platform of the storage house of the Elevator Roller Mills while in the performance of his duties as a switchman. We believe said accident was caused because the railroad company allowed said platform to be built too close to its tracks."TERTARUS--The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Tertarus passed away after a short illness and burial was made in St. Michael's cemetery Saturday. The tot was only two months old. [Tarnov.]
The Columbus Daily Telegram, September 11, 1914
COWDERY--Benjamin R. Cowdery, former resident of Columbus and one time secretary of State of Nebraska, died last Friday at Huron, S.D., where he and Mrs. Cowdery and Miss Kit had been spending the summer with relatives. Word of his death came to Mr. and Mrs. E.H. Chambers a few hours later in the form of a message from Miss Kit Cowdery. The funeral was held at Lincoln Sunday, and Mrs. Chambers went down to attend the services. In the early '80s Mr. Cowdery was a member of the firm of McFarland and Cowdery which did a general law and real estate business in Columbus. About 1890 Mr. Cowdery received an appointment as assistant secretary of state and moved with his family to Lincoln. He was later elected secretary of state and held the office one term. He then served for several years as a state bank examiner. This position he gave up to manage P.E. McKillip's bank at Leigh, Neb. The family resided there several years and then moved to Humphrey where Mr. Cowdery continued his associations with Mr. McKillip in the banking business. Six or eight years ago, the family moved to Omaha where Mr. Cowdery took a position as a special agent for an insurance company. Several years ago he underwent a serious operation, which left him in impaired health and from which he never recovered. Mr. Cowdery leaves his wife, two daughters, Miss Kit Cowdery, of Omaha, and Mrs. M.L. Stewart, of Manila, P.I., and one son, Frank Cowdery, of Omaha.SPELLICY--Mrs. Anna Spellicy, widow of the late Michael Spellicy, passed away at her home two miles north of town last Monday morning. Mrs. Spellicy was 57 years of age. She leaves one daughter, Miss Anna, and one son, Thomas, who live at home, and another son, John, whose whereabouts at present are unknown. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at St. Joseph's church and burial was made in St. Patrick's cemetery. The bearers were Bernard Clark, William Mylet, Michael Murphy, R.M. McGuane, James Hennessey and Martin Hamling. Among the people who came from a distance to attend the services were Mrs. J.J. McManus, of Omaha, and Mark McMahon, of Columbus.
KOCOL--Walter Kocol, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Kocol, passed away Sunday after a siege of Bright's disease. Walter was nearly 16 years old, having been born in New York, April 1, 1899. Funeral services were held at St. Anthony's Catholic church Monday and burial was made in the parish cemetery.
The Columbus Daily Telegram, October 2, 1914
KAVANAUGH--—Stricken with diphtheria while in the midst of preparations for her approaching marriage, Miss Eileen Kavanaugh, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D. C. Kavanaugh, died at the family home on West Thirteenth street shortly after 1 o’clock Tuesday morning. Miss Kavanaugh was in perfect health until she felt a trace of tonsolitis at an early hour Sunday morning. The ailment became worse during the day and she was given medical attention. There was no indication of the presence of the dread diphtheria until late Monday afternoon. Every possible effort was made to check the run of the disease, but the patient failed rapidly. When news of her death spread Tuesday forenoon, the city was plunged into sorrow. Few there were even among her close friends who had known that she was ill, and her untimely death was a cruelt shock to many Columbus homes. Eileen Patricia Kavanaugh was born in Columbus, March 17, 1888. She received her education in the Catholic parochial school, graduating from St. Frances academy. She was betrothed to Mr. W. F. Delaney, of David City, treasurer of Butler county, and November 5, had been fixed as the wedding day. The bride-to-be was happily engaged in preparing her trousseau when the angel of death interfered. Because of the contagious nature of diphtheria, no services were held at the home. Burial was made Tuesday afternoon at 4 o’clock, Rev. Fr. Cyriac conducting a brief service at the grave in the Catholic cemetery. Though the funeral was private, many friends of the family followed the remains to the burial place. Miss Kavanaugh is survived by her sorrowing parents, one brother, Ed Kavanaugh, and one sister, Miss Paule. Few young ladies enjoy the popularity that was hers. It was a deserved tribute to a beautiful character. Her friends and acquaintances, and they were legion, accorded her that respect which his ever due the pure at heart and the lovely nature that immortalizes womanly graces.
The Columbus Telegram, November 13, 1914
MEYER--Relatives and friends of Mrs. Theodore Meyer were deeply grieved to hear of her death which occurred Thursday evening of last week at St. Mary's hospital, in Columbus. She had been suffering with diabetis [sic] for some time, but her condition was not considered serious until about three weeks ago, when she was taken to the hospital at Columbus for treatment. The deceased was about sixty-eight years old and leaves, besides her kind and loving husband, six children, namely: Mrs. August Kuhlman, of Minnesota; Henry, of Omaha; and George, August, John and Mike, who live on the home place. The body was brought from Columbus Friday morning and requiem high mass was held for the departed at 9 o'clock Monday morning at St. Francis church, where a large number of relatives and friends were present to pay their last respects. The remains were laid to rest in the St. Francis cemetery. She will be greatly missed by the bereaved husband and children, as she was a loving and devoted wife and mother. Deepest sympathy is extended by their many friends to them in their hour of sorrow. [Humphrey.]
The Columbus Telegram, November 20, 1914
MUELLER--After suffering with cancer of the stomach for more than two years, Samuel Mueller, sr., passed away at his home two and a half miles southwest of Columbus last Saturday afternoon about 5 o'clock. A year ago last July Mr. Mueller underwent an operation for appendicitis, but it failed to restore his failing health. Attending physicians later pronounced his trouble to be cancer of the stomach and nearly a year ago he went to the Mayo brothers at Rochester, Minn., for an operation. They could not give him permanent relief, however, and his health failed steadily. Five weeks ago he was confined to his bed. Mr. Mueller was a native of Switzerland where he was born February 24, 1852 [sic]. In 1895 he crossed with his family to the United States and came directly to Columbus, locating first on the Dr. Heintz farm northeast of the city. He was a successful, ambitious farmer, and after renting farms for a few years in the vicinity of Columbus he bought the old Barnum place two and a half miles southwest of town about nine years ago. There the family has since resided. Mr. Mueller leaves a wife, six sons and four daughters. The latter are Sam T. Mueller, who resides near Oconee, Otto, Alfred and Emil, who are farming near Columbus, Paul, who lives on the home place, Mrs. Ida Bodner and Mrs. Rosa Kinsley, living near Columbus, Bertha and Hulda Mueller, at home. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. R. Neumarker at the German Reform church in Columbus Tuesday afternoon and burial was made in the Columbus cemetery.
The Columbus Telegram, November 27, 1914
KRUEGER--Mrs. Elizabeth Krueger, a resident of Platte county for nearly forty years, died at the family home on Grover street Wednesday. She had been ill for ten months and since last June had been unable to leave her bed. Mrs. Krueger was a daughter of the late Peter Schaffroth, who died two years ago. She was born in Switzerland, June 24, 1856, and came to this country with her parents nearly forty years ago. Here she married Julius Krueger, who passed away at Humphrey nearly twenty years ago. After his death the family resided for fifteen years on a farm ten miles northwest of Columbus, moving to town about four and a half years ago. Mrs. Krueger leaves one son, William Krueger, and two daughters, Mrs. Joe Stovicek and Clara Krueger. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. today at the German Reform church.
