Mr. Birr, who was 80 years of age, passed away Sunday morning at the home of his son Elmer after two years ill health due to the infirmities of old age. He had been a resident of this community for the past 64 years, being an active farmer until about three years ago.
He was born in Pommeron Germany, on July 18, 1856. A family reunion marked the day this past summer. He came to this country in 1872 and his marriage to Louisia Hammel of Dodge County took place in 1878. They settled on the farm in Morgan which was virgin forest and meadows at that time. Mrs. Birr passed away in 1893. In 1894 he was married to Louisa Krueger who preceded her husband to the land beyond about two years ago.
Mr. Birr was the father of seventeen children, of which seven sons and four daughters survive. They are John and Melvin of this city, Edward, George, Emil, Henry and Elmer of the town of Morgan, Mrs. O.B. Judd, city, Mrs. Louis Chiezek, Kaukauna; Mrs. D. Nicholas, Milwaukee and Mrs. Wm. Chapeau, Beaver.
Mr. Birr served the town of Morgan for several years as its representative on the county board of supervisors, an office now held by his son Emil. A rare contribution has been made by this pioneer farmer, and his good influence will long be felt. A wide circle of friends express sympathy to the bereaved children.