Jewell County Obituaries
Obituaries published after 1923 will be abstracted to avoid copyright violations.
ALDRICH
Mrs. Z. S. Aldrich:
Mary Jane Aldrich, the daughter of James and Lydia Patton Lewis was born January 29, 1850 in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, the youngest of seven children. At the age of three years moved with her parents to Iroquois County, Illinois where she grew to young womanhood, and December 31, 1869 was married to William Riner in Onarga, Illinois.
In the fall of 1872 Mr. and Mrs. Riner came to Jewell County, Kansas homesteading four and one-half miles southwest of Burr Oak. In 1888 Mr. Riner's heath having failed, they left the farm and moved to Burr Oak where his wife faithfully cared for him until his death in 1907.
In 1910 Mrs. Riner was married to Z. S. Aldrich and in 1916 they moved to Topeka where Mr. Aldrich passed away in May 1935.
Mrs. Aldrich retained her remarkable health and strength until about four years before her death, but retained her mental faculties almost to the last.
Aunt Jennie, as she was lovingly known by her many relatives and friends was possessed with an innate sense of humor and a joyous spirit which enabled her to meet the varied experiences of a pioneer life with a courage and dignity which, combined with the fine qualities of true womanhood made her of such graciousness as to endear her to all who knew her.
She passed to her eternal reward after much suffering endured with great patience on November 1, 1944.
Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock at the Burr Oak Methodist Church conducted by Rev. Arthur S. Berg.
Mrs. L. A. Pixler, Mrs. Elmer Alexander, Alfred Craighead and Marion Mizner accompanied by Vera Alexander at the piano furnished the music.
The pall bearers were all nephews of Mrs. Aldrich: Edwin, Charley, Russell, Emmett Lewis, Homer Grubbs and Ed Duncan. Burial was in the Burr Oak cemetery. (Burr Oak Herald, 11-9-1944) Contributed by Jeanne Bedwell
CLAYTON
Daniel O. Clayton, son of Ben and Mary Riner Clayton, was born near Burlingame, Osage County, Kansas, November 26, 1870. Died at Fort Jay, Governor's Island, New York, September 20, 1907. When a child, he lived with his parents at different times at Neosho Falls and at Yates Center, Kansas, coming to Burr Oak at the age of fourteen where he grew to manhood and spent most of his life until 1898 when he enlisted for the Spanish-American war and has continued almost all the time since in the service of his country, being at the time of his death on his third enlistment in the regular army since being mustered out of the volunteer service. He was twice in the Philippines. His death was due to an electric shock from having accidently come into contact with a live wire at the power house where he was on duty at the time. The deceased was a full brother of George F. Clayton and a half brother of Albert V. Hunt, both of Clarinda, Iowa and a half brother of Mrs. C. E. Lewis of this place, who with a large circle of relatives are called to mourn his decease. The body was brought here for burial arriving last Saturday evening and the funeral was held Sunday afternoon, conducted by Elder Leio Couch and the remains laid away in the beautiful Burr Oak Cemetery.
(Burr Oak Herald, 10-10-1907) Contributed by Jeanne Bedwell
CLAYTON
MARY RINER HUNT CLAYTON--Mary Riner was born in Warren County, Indiana, January 20, 1838 and died of congestive chill in Burr Oak, Kansas, February 11, 1889. She moved with her parents to Iroquois County, Illinois in 1850, was converted at the age of fifteen and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church of which she was a consistent member. She married George M. Hunt, January 21, 1858. Three children blessed this union, two of whom are still living. She was left a widow in 1866 and soon afterward married Benjamin F. Clayton, who also proceeded her to the better land. To this union were born two sons and one daughter. She made many friends wherever she lived, being of a very sympathetic nature, always ready to respond to the call of the sick or anyone in trouble. Her funeral was preached at the M.E. church by Rev. D. Harrison (undated Burr
Oak newspaper)
CONRAD
Thomas William Conrad passed
away at Esbon, Kans., Oct. 27,
1963, at the age of 86 years, 6
months and 28 days. He was the son of
Frank and Margaret Conrad, and was
born March 30, 1877, in Washington County, Kans.
As an infant he came with his
parents to Esbon, Kans., where he
lived his entire life on a farm south
of Esbon.
He married
Elizabeth Vivinna Johanek (known
as Lizzie) of Esbon, Kans., on Jan
12, 1909. They lived on the farm
where he was living at the time of his
death.
Four children, Lawrence, Eugene,
Audrey and Bernetta, were born to them.
He was preceded in death by
his parents; his wife; a son, Lawrence; a grandson, Larry Terrill;
and four sisters, Mary Brennan,
Ella Cavanaugh, Agnes Kelly and
Kate Regan.
Survivors include his son,
Eugene, of the home; two daughters, Audrey (Mrs. Dave Townsdin) of Fremont, Nebr., and Bernetta (Mrs. James Terrill) of
Pierce, Nebr.; six grandchildren; a
sister, Ann Regan of Esbon; two
brothers, Jim of Cawker City and
John of Red Cloud, Nebr; many
nieces and nephews; other relatives; and a host of life-long friends
and acquaintances.
Memorial services were held
from Sacred Heart Church in Esbon at 10:00 A. M., Oct. 29, with
Rev. Father Roger Meitl officiating. Casket bearers were Kenneth, and Will, Jr., Johanek, Tom
Cavanaugh, Charlie McGinnis and
Ted Thummel. Interment was in
St. Elizabeth's Cemetery at Esbon. (Jewell County Record, 11-21-1963)
CRISTMAN
Former Mankato resident Mrs. Margaret Cristman, 90, died October 28, 1963 in Indio, California, as
a result of complications with leukemia. Shortly after her husband, Frank Cristman, died in 1951
she went to California to be near her daughters, but returned to Mankato frequently to visit.
Before her marriage to Mr. Cristman in December 1938, she was Mrs. L. M. Cagney. Besides her husbands,
she was preceded in death by a sister, Mrs. Viola Platt. She is survived by her children, Vance and Emmett Cagley, both
of Denver, Colo., Mrs. Homer Jenkins and Mrs. Charles Kramer, both of Indio, Calif. [no burial information]
(abstract, Jewell County Record, 11-28-1963)
CROUSE
At the home of his parents in
Mayview, Jewell Co., Kans , Dec. 4, 1891,
John Clinton, son of Henry and Christina Crouse, aged 31 years, 6 months and 15 days.
Deceased leaves a wife and child, father and
mother, three brothers, four sisters and many
relatives and friends to mourn his departure
Funeral conducted by Rev. H. G. Breed of
the M. E. church, from Luke 12: 55, 36, and
part of verse 37, to a large and sympathizing
audience. (Gospel Messenger)
CRUMRINE
Enos Crumrine, father of Robert Crumrine of Clyde, Mrs. M. D. Scott of
Oklahoma City and Mrs. W. A. Matson of Jewell City, died at his home in
Jewell yesterday and will be buried there tomorrow. Mr. Crumrine was a fine
old gentleman who had filled a long life with useful deeds. He had many friends here.
(Concordia Daily Blade, Jan. 19, 1914)
DILLON
Asa Dillon, age 90, died at his home in Wichita on August 16th.
He was born May 16, 1873 in a dugout near Northbranch, Kansas, the son of Luke and
Elizabeth Folger Dillon. The family had removed only a few weeks before from Warren
County, Iowa, in a covered wagon. He attended the local schools and graduated from
Northbranch Friends Academy, and attended the State Normal School in Emporia. He taught school
and was also an ordained minister in the Friends church, pastoring at Pleasant Ridge in
Phillips County, and also the Bolton and Independence congregations. As a young man, he
assisted his father in the nursery business, selling stock in Western Kansas and even into
Colorado.
On January 1, 1900 he married Emma Liggett at the home farm of her parents. They later purchased
that farm, and remained there until their only child, J. Ruth, was 12 years old. The farm
remains in the family. After living in Emporia a few years, the family moved to Wichita, so that
Ruth could attend Friends University. In 1927 he was appointed Superintendent of Buildings and
Grounds at the University, and he served in that capacity until his retirement in May, 1958.
Asa Dillon sought expression in prose and poetry, and published two works, "Lines Across the
Prairie," (1959) and "Added Lines", (1963). He wrote up until the time of his death.
He is survived by his wife, Emma; his daughter and son-in-law, Ruth and George Coulter; a
granddaughter, Annie Jo, in Leon, Texas; one brother Luther Dillon of Friendswood, Texas;
and a brother-in-law, Vaden R. Liggett of Wichita, along with many nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial services were held August 19 at Friends University Church, with graveside services and
interment in the Northbranch Cemetery, where his parents also rest. (abstract, Jewell County Record, 8-29-1963)
DRAKE
Hannah Riner Drake, 1828-1899
Hannah Riner was born at Winchester, Virginia, December 16, 1828. Died at Burr Oak, Kansas, February 11, 1899; aged 70 years, 1 month, and 26 days. Was married to Jesse Drake, in Warren County, Indiana, January 24, 1847. Removed with her husband to Iroquois County, Illinois in 1850 where she resided until 1888 when she removed with her husband to Burr Oak, Kansas. She united with the U.B. church in 1856 to which she belonged until her removal to Kansas, when she joined the M.E. church at Burr Oak. Her husband and one brother, William Riner, together with six sons and daughters survive to mourn her loss, one son, Henry R. Drake having preceded her to the better land at Onarga, Illinois, on December 28, 1876. The living sons and daughters are Mrs. B.F. Duncan, Daniel J. Drake, Mrs. Sarah E. Coyner and Mrs. Emma E. Coyner of Burr Oak. Mrs. S.S. Porter of Springdale, Arkansas, and Frank M. Drake of Mankato, Kansas.
The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.C.Walker at the M.E. church, Feb. 13, assisted by Elder Truman of the Christian church. The text chosen was the 4th verse of the 21st chapter of Revelation. By her death her husband has lost a boon companion of 52 years. The sons and daughters a kind, watchful, solicitous and loving mother and the community a kind neighbor and friend.--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell
(Burr Oak Herald 2-16-1899)
DRAKE
An Old Settler Gone
Jesse Drake was born in Pike County, Ohio, January 29, 1824, and died at his home in Burr Oak, Tuesday night, June 9, 1908; aged 84 years, 4 months, and 11 days.
When about 14 years of age, he removed with his parents to Vermillion County, Indiana. On January 24, 1847, he was married to Miss Hannah Reiner, who passed on to the better land in 1899. To this union seven children were born, six of whom, two sons and four daughters, are still living. In 1850 he moved to Iroquois County, Illinois, and live there until 1883, when he came to Burr Oak where he has since lived.
Uncle Jesse, as he was familiarly called, was an honorable and upright man and a model citizen and was honored and respected by the community and had the filial love and devotion of his children. The surviving children are D.J. and F.M. Drake of Topeka, Mrs. B.F.Duncan of Mankato, and Mesdames Mary Porter, Sarah Coyner, and Emma Coyner of this place. There are eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
The funeral was held last Friday afternoon. The two sons and four of his grandsons, E.E. Duncan, Roy Coyner, Ross Porter, and Verne Coyner, acted as pallbearers. Rev. J. M. Willis conducted the services, assisted by Rev. W.A. VanGundy. The basis of the remarks was the scripture in I Cor. 15.35 to 38. A large concourse of sorrowing friends followed the remains to their resting place in the Burr Oak Cemetery.
--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell
(Burr Oak Herald 6-18-1908)
EDIE
Buel E. Edie, 75, died at his home in Bird City, September 1, 1963. He was born Dec. 12,
1887, at St. Francis, Kansas, the son of Robert Audly Edie and Carolyn Anna Weidenheimer.
As a boy, his family moved to Denver, Colorado. At age 12 the family returned to Kansas,
moving to Washington Co. At age 20 he went to Indianpolis, Indiana, where he spent six
years, returning to Kansas and living near Bird City, where he spent the remainder of his
life. He was a farmer and stock raiser. He married Olive DeHoff of Mankato on June 12,
1912. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Clara May Nejus, Agnes Gommel and Zelma Edie.
He is survived by his wife, Olive; a daughter, Lydia Catherine Warzenick; three
grandsons; one brother, Raymond A. Edie, of Boston, Mass; and two sisters, Myrta Meyer
and Amber Lyons of Whittier, Calif. Funeral services were Sept. 3 at the Bird City Methodist
Church, and burial was in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Mankato. (abstract, Jewell County Record, 9-5-1963)
ELLIOTT
Died, in the bounds of the Limestone church, Jewell Co , Kans., Feb. 4, 1892,
Angle Elliott, son of Bro. John and sister
Laura Elliott, aged 18 years, 10 months and
2 days. Funeral services Feb 6. by the writer from Job 14: 3, 2 and first part of fourteenth verse.
(Gospel Messenger)
FLORA
Died in the bounds of the White Rock church,
Jewell Co., Kans, March 13, 1895, Sister Elizabeth, wife of
Bro. Henry F. Flora, aged 39 years, to months and 24 days.
Her maiden name was Benbow. She was the mother of
eight children, all living, one a babe four days old. She died
in a living faith and a glorious hope of Immortality. Funeral
by Bro. Allen Ives, of Burr Oak, Kans. (Gospel Messenger)
GORDONIER
Mrs. Kate Gordonier of Randall died in Concordia Tuesday, Nov. 24th, and the body will be brought to
Randall tomorrow for burial. (Concordia Daily Blade, Nov. 25, 1914)
GRUBBS
Mattie Evangeline Lewis Grubbs 1897-1980:
Mattie Evangeline, youngest daughter of Belle and Cal Lewis, was born June 12, 1897, on the family homestead of Burr Oak, Kansas and passed away at the Webster County Hospital, Red Cloud, Nebraska, November 4, 1980 at the age of 83.
She attended the Burr Oak schools, and on February 12, 1916 was united in marriage to Homer W. Grubbs. They established their home on a farm near Burr Oak. To this union was born one son, Homer Lewis. They spent over 50 years working together, enjoying this way of life since they were both fond of animals.
Mattie was a member of the Alpha Omega Club, an honorary member of the Excelsior Club and a life-long member of the United Methodist Church.
Mattie was a loving mother and devoted to her family. She loved visiting with Homer and getting noon meals for him. This past summer when her health was failing, these shared times were the highlights of her days. She also enjoyed the friends who came and those who telephoned her regularly for visits.
Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband Homer who died June 29, 1967, her brothers Dan and Charley, her sister Grace, her brother-in-law Ralph Parsons, and some half brothers and sisters.
Surviving her are her son and his wife AnnaBelle, her sister Hazel Parsons of Louisville, KY, her brother-in-law Fred Myers of Lake Worth, Florida, her sister-in-law Ethel Grubbs of Santa Rose, California, her nieces Elleen Tegley, Mary Ann Yeager, Lindell Drake, Jeanne Shafer, and Audrey Kemmer; her nephews Lynn Louis and Lyle Morris, and their families; some cousins; and many friends.
Services were held at the Burr Oak Methodist Chruch Friday morning, November 7, with Rev. Ralph Jarboe officiating. Mrs. Don Diehl was The organist and Ardean Jeffery the soloist. Pall bearers were Reeve Hawkins, Bob Korb, Sr., Phil Cleveland, Lee Garman, Gale Burgess and Milford Ost. Interment was in the Burr Oak Cemetery with Kramer Funeral Home, Mankato in charge.
Out of town relatives and friends attending the services were Mrs. Hazel Parsons and Mrs. Lindell Drake of Louisville, Ky; Mrs. Jeanne Shafer, Columbus, Ohio; Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Lewis, Boulder, Colorado; Debbie Brenner; Dan Lewis, Golden, Colorado; Mr and Mrs. Dan Halleman, Cheyenne, Wyo; Mrs. Eva McCormick, El Dorado; Mrs. Varden Davis, Sr., Mrs. Zelma Paul, Red Cloud, Neb; Lela Lamb and Esther Boyles, Mankato; Mr. and Mrs. Bob Keifer and Margaret Keifer, Bostwick, Neb.; Mr. and Mrs. Clare Lamb, Esbon; and Mrs. Larkie Wieler, Superior, Neb.
--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell
HACKENBERG
Died, in the Burr Oak church,
Kans., Nov. 11, 1897, Nettie May, twin daughter of Bro. Wm. and Sister Susan Hackenberg,
aged 3 years, 7 months and 8 days. Little
Nettie came to her death by playfully burning
a weed, setting her clothes on fire, and burning
her so badly that she died next day. Funeral
discourse by Eld. Eli Renner. (Gospel Messenger)
HENEGER
At Burr Oak, Kans., May 1,
1899, of black diphtheria, Lizzie Belle, little
daughter of Bro. Jacob and Sister Susan Heninger, aged 2 years, 7 months and 24 days.
Services at the house by Bro. Eli Renner. (Gospel Messenger)
HUNT
Nellie Valentine Hunt, 96, died October 25, 1963 at a Beloit hospital. She was married
Oct. 14, 1884 at Jacksonville, Illinois to John W. Hunt. He preceded her in
death on Jan. 23, 1938. She was also preceded in death by two sons,
Alfred Vernon Hunt and Oliver E. Hunt, and two other children who died
in infancy. Survivors include her children: J. W. Hunt of Salina; Mrs.
Amy Haigh of Downey, Calif.; Mrs. Reithal (Ed) Percival of Abilene; Mrs. Ray
Sheets of Tescott, Charley and Albert Hunt, both of Puyallup, Wash.;
Mrs. Erma (Gerald) Thompson of Mankato and Mrs. Archie Magers of Vashon,
Wash.; also 33 grandchildren, 77 g-grandchildren, and 14 gg-grandchildren;
a brother, Robert Eugene Gough of Marysville and her sisters, twins: Mrs.
Amy Hildreth of Denver, Colo. and Mrs. Sadie Macy of Durango, Colo.
Funeral services were held on Oct. 29 at the Harrison Funeral Home in
Beloit and burial was in the Colorado Township Cemetery, Beverly, Kansas.
(abstract, Jewell County Record, 11-7-1963)
JONES
OBITUARY--Elvin D. Jones was born May 16, 1923, near Burr Oak, Kansas, to
Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Jones. He attended rural school and graduated from
Burr Oak High School in 1941. On Aug. 28, 1945, he was married at
Olive Hill Church near Superior, Nebr., to Alyce Mae Jennings of
Guide Rock. To them on March 21, 1947, were born twin daughters,
Marilyn and Carolyn. Elvin and his family lived on a farm until 1954
when they moved to Guide Rock. Here for seven years, he was employed
by the Norman-Ely Lumber Co. and for the past two years at the Guide
Rock State Bank. Elvin died Oct. 16, 1963 at the Webster County
Hospital after an illness of three weeks, at the age of 40 years and
5 months. Left to mourn are his wife, Alyce, and their daughters,
Marilyn and Carolyn; also his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Jones; and
his sister and brother, Mrs. Darlene Menhusen of Raytown, Mo. and
Don Jones of Guide Rock. (from Elvin Jones' funeral card)
KEELY
Harrison Keely, one of the earliest homesteaders in Jewell county,
died at his home in Formoso on Sept. 1st. He went to Texas two
years ago where he contracted malarial fever, from which he never
recovered. He leaves a widow, two grown sons and a daughter.
(Concordia Daily Blade, Sept. 2, 1909)
LAYMON
Homer Levarn Laymon was born August 10, 1889 in Jewell county,
Kansas, and died in Concordia, Kansas, April 25, 1912. He came
to Concordia in February of this year. He leaves a father, mother,
brother and sister to mourn his departure. Homer underwent three
painful surgeries in the last few months and made a brave struggle
for life, but his strength failed hm and he passed quietly away.
Services were held April 26 at the First Baptist church with
burial in the cemetery at Concordia.
(Concordia Daily Blade, April 27, 1912)
LEWIS
Mrs. Belle Lewis, 77 year old Burr Oak resident, died at her home in the west edge of town Friday morning, after being critically ill for about 10 days. Her two daughters, Mrs. Ralph Parsons of Louisville, Ky and Mrs. Fred Myers of Palm Beach, Florida came last week to be with her. Other children, Charles Lewis and Mrs. Homer Grubbs, local residents, and Mrs. Earl Morris of Hardy, Nebraska had also been with her.
Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Methodist Church with Rev. C.R. Vasey in charge. Burial was made in the Burr Oak cemetery.
The early career of Mrs. Hannah Belle Lewis came to a close Friday morning, November 18, 1938, at her home in Burr Oak, Kansas, after an illness of less than two weeks. She was 77 years, 3 months and 21 days old. Hannah Belle, daughter of George and Mary Hunt, was born in Onarga, Illinois, August 28, 1861, and when about two years old, with her parents, came by ox-wagon and settled near Yates Center, Kansas, where she grew to womanhood, and was married to George W. Fry, October 31, 1880. Two little girls, Bessie and Edith, were born to this union. Bessie died when she was seven years old. After Mr. Fry died in 1884, Mrs. Lewis resided in Yates Center. When visiting her brother at New Market, Iowa, she met and married Mr. Calvin Lewis, April 24, 1886. They moved to Burr Oak soon after their marriage and she has resided her continuously since. To them were born six children, on Walter died in infancy. Another, Dan died in 1912. Since the death of Mr. Lewis in September, 1926, Mrs. Lewis has maintained her home, spending much time with her children, and they with her. Last year, at just this time, she, with her daughter Mattie Grubbs, and grandson, Homer Lewis, were en route to the south to spend the winter.
Since a very early age, Mrs. Lewis was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and she was a member of the Cheerful Workers church school class, which she enjoyed attending. Mrs. Lewis knew much of the life of the pioneer wife and mother who endured bravely every obstacle which beset all early settlers---when the forces of nature combined to make their lives difficult and rigorous, and sickness and death added to the strain, still with undaunted faith and courage, she was true to her sense of duty and responsibility, bowing and smiling to everyone she met. She was deeply interested in the problems of her family, and faithful to her family in every way; giving of her time, energy, and council at all time. She was friendly and loved friendly groups. She served the W.R.C. as chaplain.
Mrs. Lewis was the last of her generation. She is survived by her son, Charles of the home; daughters Mrs. Edith Morris of Hardy, Neb., Mrs. Grace Myers of Palm Beach, Florida, Mrs. Hazel Parsons of Louisville, Kentucky, and Mrs. Mattie Grubbs of Burr Oak; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Minnie Aldrick of Topeka, Kansas; nine grandchildren, Elleen, Lynn, and Mary Ann Lewis, Jeanne and Lindell Parsons, Lyle, Wendell, and Max Morris and Homer Lewis Grubbs; one great-grandchild; three nieces, Mrs. Berniece Cramer and Mrs. Ed Harrison of Clarinda, Iowa, and Mrs. Glen Miller of Omaha, Nebraska.
The life of Mrs. Lewis was filled with kindly thoughts and helpful deed for those she loved. She truly lived an unselfish life, a good life, well defined by her loving, Christian, pleasing personality, and she will be sorely missed by her friends and relatives.
The funeral was from the home at 2 p. m. Sunday, November 21, with a service at the Methodist Church. A quartet, Mrs. L. A. Pixler, Mrs. A. W. Mann, Alfred Craighead and W. L. McCormick, sang three hymns, "Face to Face, " "Abide with Me," and "Crossing the Bar." Adolph Unruh sang "The End of a Perfect Day." Rev. C. R. Vasey gave the sermon. The pall bearers were Ed Wilsman, E.E. Lewis, Willard Harris, R. R. Richardson, Roy Coyner, and P. H. O'Brian. Interment was in the Burr Oak Cemetery.--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell
(Burr Oak Herald, 11-24-1938)
LEWIS
C. E. LEWIS PASSES
Another old soldier was taken from this community when Calvin Lewis passed away Sunday. Mr. Lewis was affected with paralysis and had been in poor health for some time. Mr. Lewis had lived in this community for fifty-six years and had seen Burr Oak grow from a small frontier town to its present size. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Obituary
Calvin E. Lewis, son of James and Lydia Lewis, was born near Dayton, Indiana, February 25, 1840 and departed this life September 12, 1926, at the age of 86 years, 7 months, 19 days. In the early sixties he with his two brothers, Thomas and Will, enlisted in Company M, 9th Illinois Calvary, serving his country 3 years and 3 months.
He came to Kansas in 1870 and homesteaded the land that is now the west side of Burr Oak. In 1866 he was married to Miss Tillie Denning. To this union was born two children, Hattie and Charles. Both with their mother passed away at an early age.
In 1878 he married Sue Biggs and to them were born two boys, Earl Lewis, now of Wheatland, Wyo., and James, who died two years ago. Their mother died in 1883.
In 1886 he was united in marriage to Mrs. Belle Fry. Six children came to bless their home, Charley A., of Burr Oak, Walther H., who died at the age of 3 years, Dan C., who
passed away in 1912, Mrs. Grace Myers, Palm Beach, Florida., Mrs. Hazel Parsons, Randall, Kansas, and Mrs. Mattie Grubbs, of Burr Oak.
Besides the wife and 5 children, he leaves to mourn his departure a step-daughter, Mrs. Edith Morris of Hardy, Nebraska, and older brother Thomas Lewis, Wheatland, Wyo., one sister, Mrs. M. J. Aldrich, Topeka, Kansas, 14 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, a number of Neice and nephews, and a host of relatives and friends.
During the Oliver meeting Mr. Lewis was converted to the faith and although he was not a church member, he was a believer in the church and its teachings.--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr Oak Herald, 9-16-1926)
LEWIS
Charles Lewis:
Charles Albert Lewis, son of Calvin E. and Belle H. Lewis, was born February 1, 1887, on his parents' homesteaded one half mile west of Burr Oak, Kansas. He passed away at the Beloit Community Hospital, Friday, September 8, 1967. On March 26, 1915, he was united in marriage to Florence Appleby. They were married in the home they established southwest of Burr Oak. To this union were born three children Mrs. Elleen Tegley of Burr Oak; and Mrs. Mary Ann Yeager of Newman, Georgia. [ and Lynn Louis of Burr Oak ] After his graduation from Burr Oak High School in 1907, he and his brother, Dan, traveled by covered wagon to Colorado where they homesteaded near Fort Morgan. Later they returned to Burr Oak, where he was engaged in farming for many years. Early in 1947 he established the Lewis Hardware in Burr Oak and continued that business until his death. During the Oliver Meetings in 1908, he was converted and became a member of the Burr Oak Methodist Church. He was a 50 year member of the Burr Oak Lodge No. 178 A. F. and A. M.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife in 1933, his parents, and seven brothers and sisters. He is survived by his three children; one daughter-in-law; two sons-in-law; nine grandchildren; four great grandchildren; three sisters: Mrs. Fred Myers of West Palm Beach, Florida, Mrs. Ralph Parsons of Louisville, Kentucky, and Mrs. Homer Grubbs of Burr Oak; two brothers-in-law; two nieces; two nephews; and his sister-in-law, Mrs. Lottie Myers, with whom he made his home in recent years.
Funeral services were held at 3:00 P.M. Sunday, September 10, at the First Methodist Church in Burr Oak with Rev. Olin Belt and Rev. G. R. Alsobrooks officiating. Music was by Curtis Jeffery and Mrs. John Abel. Casket bearers were George Cosand, Jr., Derald Decker, Dallas Caldwell, Clell Hancock, Stanley Johnson , and Nelson Harris. Member of the Masonic Lodge served as honorary escorts. Internment was in the Burr Oak Cemetery. --submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Jewell County Record, 9-14-1967)
LEWIS
Lydia Patton Lewis 1818-1882:
Died: March 7, 1882, at the residence of their son-in-law, William Riner--Mrs. Lydia Lewis, relict of James Lewis aged 63 years, 5 months and 6 days. Disease: Hemorrhage of the lungs and general debility. Funeral occasion improved by Elder Allen Ives to sympathizing relatives and friends, from words of her own selection, found in Rev. 14:13---"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord." Interred in the Baker Cemetery.
Thus "one by one we are passing away." May we all remember the night of death draws near, that we also may be prepared, as was our mother who has only gone before.
Dearest mother, thou has left us
And they loss we deeply feel
But 'tis God that hath bereft us,
He can all our sorrows heal.
--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr Oak Reveille, 3-10-1882)
LEWIS
Thomas Lewis 1837-1934:
Thomas Lewis was born in Indiana, December 29, 1837 and died at the home of a nephew, Earl Lewis, of Wheatland, Wyoming, May 24, 1934 at the age of 96 years, four months, and 29 days. He grew to manhood in Indiana and then moved with his parents to Illinois.
When the Civil War broke out, he enlisted in the 9th Illinois cavalry and served almost continually during the entire war. He was taken prisoner and placed in the Libby prison for a time and then taken to the Anderson prison. He was kept in the two prisons for 9 months, but was liberated and received an honorable discharge from the army at the close of the war.
In the year 1870 he came to Jewel County, Kansas and took up a homestead a few miles west of Burr Oak. He endured all the hardships of an early settler of the plains. He raised some sod corn and hauled it to Waterville, the nearest grist mill, to be ground into meal for corn bread. He helped to build roads and bridges, break the sod, and build the houses in this part of the county.
He was married to Miss Lydia M. Hockett in 1876. The marriage took place in a sod church called New Providence. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis never had any children of their own, but reared two, the younger sister of Mrs. Lewis and a nephew of Mr. Lewis. Mrs. Lewis died in the year 1911 and was laid to rest in Burr Oak cemetery.
From weakness caused by old age and a lingering sickness at the home of his nephew, he passed away strong in the faith that God would take care of him. He possessed the three great qualities that will make a neighborhood or nation great: a willingness to work hard, willing to sacrifice for others and a great faith in God.
The body was brought to Burr Oak for burial and was taken to the Merritt Funeral home where it rested until Saturday morning when it was taken to the Burr Oak cemetery where a short service was held at the grave conducted by Rev. Stelson. A mixed quartet sang two songs. The pall bearers were American Legion men dressed in soldier uniforms. Draped in the American flag the body was lowered to rest beside that of his wife who preceded him to the better land.
Card of Thanks
We wish to thank those who gave us their welcome assistance on the occasion of the death of Thomas Lewis, and particularly the American Legion boys for their help�The Relatives. --submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr Oak Herald, 5-31-1934)
LOVSETH
Ole C. Lovseth was born Sept. 18, 1880, on the homestead of his parents,
Jens and Johannah Lovseth, five and one half miles southeast of Randall, and
received his education at the district school of Jaybird.
He married Ardelsie Stinson in 1907, and they became the parents of a little daughter,
Josephine, who died at the age of one and one half years. Ardelsie died
in 1911. He married Bessie C. Spicer on May 6th, 1914 and they began married life
on a farm three miles east of Randall, where they have since lived. Mr. Lovseth
died Nov. 16, 1965 at St. Joseph Hospital in Concordia, following complications of
a stroke suffered almost eight months ago. He is survived by his wife, and three
daughters: Mrs. (Carl) Thelma Given of Kansas City, Mo.; Mrs. (John) Ocie
Miller of Glasco; and Mrs. (Harold) Norma Clark of Topeka; one sister,
Mrs. Olga Elniff; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was
also preceded in death by a son, Ilo Elwood, who died in infancy.
(abstract from obituary read at his funeral)
MAGEE
Rev. Samuel Magee, of Randall, died Tuesday, June 25th, after an illness of
several weeks. (Concordia Daily Blade, June 29, 1907)
MALLORY
Russell Mallory was born in Center county, Pa., Sept. 10, 1826 and died
in Jewell City, Kansas, Feb. 10, 1906. Mr. Mallory removed from Pennsylvania
to Illinois in 1869, and from thence to Jewell, Kansas, where he resided to
the time of his death. Mr. Mallory was the father of seven boys and three
girls, all of whom survived him except one son and one daughter. Mrs. Mallory
died about eight years ago. The funeral services were held from the
Christian church Monday at 1:30 p.m. The remains were interred in the Wallace
cemetery, where Mrs. Mallory is buried.
(Jewell Republican, Feb. 15, 1906)
MANK
Mrs. Susan Mank, an old settler of Jewell county, died at the home
of her sons near Talmo this morning of brochitis. She was 66 year
old and leaves four sons. The funeral will occur on Sunday,
May 3rd, at Asherville, where interment will be. Mrs. Mank had
resided in Jewell county for thirty-five years.
(Concordia Daily Blade, May 1, 1908)
MEADOWS
Former Mankato resident Mrs. Flora G. Meadows, 63, died Saturday, Nov. 16, 1963 in a
Topeka hospital. She was born in Kewaunee, Wisconsin on April 12, 1876. After the death of her husband,
John, in 1943, she moved from Mankato to Topeka. She is survived by a daughter Miss Lela Meadows
of Topeka; two brothers, H. N. Skinner of Mankato and R. L. Skinner of Salem, Ore.; a sister, Mrs.
Lester Walker of Boise, Idaho and several nieces and nephews. Services were held in Topeka on Nov. 19,
and burial was in the cemetery in Ionia.
(abstract, Jewell County Record, 11-28-1963)
MILLER
Died, at her home in Jewell City,
Kans., Aug. 14, 1891, of typhoid malaria,
sister Mary, wife of John L. Miller, aged
58 years.
Deceased leaves a husband and three
children to mourn their loss. She was an
honorable sister for many years. With her
family she came from Pennsylvania to Illinois a number of years ago and was a member of the Waddam's Grove church until
some years ago, when they moved to Kansas. Her husband never was a member of
the church, neither her two sons, but her
daughter has been a sister for many years. (Gospel Messenger)
PALMER
Died, in the Burr Oak church, Jewell Co., Kans.,
Nov. 22, 1894, of kidney trouble, Bro. Harrison Palmer, aged
77 years, 1 month and ? days. He was born in Ashland
County, Ohio. He moved to Missouri in 1858, then to
Kansas in 1882. He was a minister of the Brethren church
for about thirty three years. He called for the elders and
was anointed about ten days before he died. He was an exemplary Christian. Much of his time while sick was spent
In preaching and exhorting. He leaves a wife and five
daughters. He died at the residence of his son-in law, Mr,
Frank Beams. Funeral services by brethren Eli Renner,
and Allen Ives. (Gospel Messenger)
PANGBORN
Roseanna Riner Pangborn
Roseanna Riner was born in Covington, Warren County, Indiana, Feb. 7th, 1834. Died in Burr Oak, Kansas, Nov. 10 th, 1893, aged 59 years, 9 months and 3 days.
She moved with her parents to Iroquois County, Illinois in 1850. She was married to C.S. Pangborn Aug. 19th, 1852. In the autumn of this year, she was converted, and united with the M. E. church, remaining a faithful member of the same until death. In March of 1882 she came with her family to Burr Oak, Kansas where she has lived until the present time.
She was the mother of seven children, six of whom survive her. Frank E. Pangborn, of Malden, Ill., Mrs. Fred Norton, of Grant's Pass, Oregon, Mrs. W.E. Noyes, Mrs. W. M. Heaston, Melvin Pangborn, and Quincy Pangborn, of Burr Oak, Kansas. Her son Jesse died in March 1872. Her husband, one brother and one sister, Mr. Wm. Riner and Mrs. Hannah Drake are still living, and they with a large circle of other relatives and friends, sincerely mourn her death.
Though severely afflicted, she was always patient and cheerful and seemed never so happy as when her family and friends were gathered around her fireside. She was usually unable to attend the services of the church, but her well-worn bible was her constant companion and her faith in its promise was steadfast and comforting.
The funeral services were beautiful and impressive. The sermon was preached by Rev. H.B. Breed, an old friend of the family.
A happy home has been broken up, and the sympathy of the entire community goes out to the children and to the husband who has so long, and so tenderly, cared for his companion in her helplessness.
"Let us be patient! these severe afflictions
Not from the ground arise
But oftentimes celestial benedictions
Assume this dark disguise
There is no Death! What seems so is transition
This life of mortal breath,
Is but a suburb of the life Elysian,
Whose portal we all Death."
--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr
Oak Herald, 11-16-1893)
PARSONS
Louis Lavelle Parsons was born at Fairfield, Iowa, September 30, 1859, and died at his home near Mankato, Kansas, August 21, 1947, at the age of nearly 88 years.
He was united in marriage to Letta Anette Burr at Hoxie, Kansas, on September 30, 1889. Nine children came to grace their home, seven of whom grew to adult life and four of whom survive. Mr. and Mrs. Parsons moved from Hoxie to the farm at rural Mankato 53 years ago this month (August). It was here that they raised their boys and girls and here that they expressed their lives all through the years.
Mr. Parsons was very fond of his neighbors and often talked of how much he enjoyed them. His last years were made much happier by the work and fellowship enjoyed by the club to which they belonged. He was noted for his integrity and his devotion to his home and family.
His mind was clear right up to the last of his life and he never ceased to take an interest in the affairs of his neighborhood and friends.
He is survived by Mrs. Parsons of the home: two daughters, Mrs. Grace Harrison of Pueblo, Colorado, and Mrs. Verda Rice of Omaha; two sons, Ralph Parsons of Louisville, Ky., and Verne Parsons of Mankato; and their families, and many other relatives and a host of friends.
--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (undated Jewell County Record)
REDENBOW
Died in the Burr Oak church,
Kans., Nov. 14, 1898, Bro. Samuel Redenbow
aged 74 years, 1 month and 9 days. Bro. Redenbow was taken away very suddenly with a
stroke of paralysis. Services by Eld. Eli Renner. (Gospel Messenger)
RINER
DANIEL RINER, 1796-1885
Died, at the home of his son-in-law, R.R. Skeels, four miles southwest of Burr Oak, on May 5, 1885, Daniel Riner, aged 88 years, 6 months, and 26 days.
Father Riner was born in Berkley County, Virginia, October 19, 1796. He married December 31, 1826 to Miss May Starry. In 1829 he moved from Virginia to Indiana where he resided until 1850, when he moved to Illinois. There on November 8, 1862, his wife died. On May 11, 1863 he was married to Miss Rhoda Starry, who died May 11, 1867. In the spring of 1883, he came to Kansas, and lived here with his children until his death. He leaves five children. William Riner, Mrs. Jesse Drake, Mrs. Cyrus Pangborn, Mrs. R.R. Skeels, of Burr Oak, and Mrs. William (sic--Benjamin) Clayton of Yates Center, Kansas; four children having preceded him to the better land. He embraced religion in early life, ever true to his convictions, possessed of practical business sagacity and unbending integrity, performing all his duties with promptness, efficiency, and faithfulness. As long as his health permitted, he was regular in his attendance at church and always a liberal supporter of the Gospel and every good enterprise. To his family he was devoted, doing all he could to promote their happiness, not only in this life, but in the next.
His funeral took place at the M.E. Church in this place on Wednesday, May 6 at 2 p.m. and was largely attended. On Thursday morning relatives started with his remains for Onarga, Illinois where they will be laid to rest beside his wife. --submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (undated Burr
Oak newspaper)
RINER
William Riner:
William Riner was born in Warren county, Indiana, September 25, 1840, died at his home in Burr Oak, Kansas, December 19, 1907, aged 67 years, 2 months, and 24 days. He was the son of Daniel and Mary (Starry) Riner and when ten years of age he removed with them to Iroquois county, Illinois, where he lived on a farm until the breaking out of the Civil war. On November 20th 1861 he offered his services to his country and enlisted in Company M 9th Illinois cavalry. With his regiment he participated in many hard fought battles and experienced the hardships incident to the army in the time of war. He was mustered out of the service on March 13th, 1865 and returned to his home in Illinois. He was married December 13th 1867 to Miss Jennie Lewis. In 1881 they moved to Jewell county settling in Burr Oak township, which has been their home for more than thirty-six years. In the early days Mr. Riner went through all the hardships common to the pioneers, but having faith in the country and being energetic and industrious, by patience and perseverance he acquired a competency which supported him when he was no longer able to engage in active pursuits. He had a pleasant and attractive home in Burr Oak to which he retired, still owing a valuable farm in the southwest part of the township where he first settled. Mr. Riner was one of a family of nine children, all of whom have now passed away, Mr. Riner being the last survivor. His death was due to paralysis from which he had suffered for more than twenty years. He united with the M.E. church at this place in 1873 and has remained a consistent Christian during all these years. He was a man of genial disposition, gentle and kind-hearted, never complaining because of his affliction and always greeting his friends with a pleasant word and a cheery smile. He leaves a devoted wife, many relatives and innumerable friends to mourn his departure. The funeral was held at the M.E. church last Friday afternoon at two o?clock and was conducted by Revs. W.A. VanGundy and J. M. Willis, the music for the occasion being furnished by Mrs. A. W. Mann, Mrs. R.W. Johnston, Mr. M. C. Berkeley, and Dr. W. L. McCormick with Mrs. M. C. Berkeley at the organ. After the funeral a large number of sorrowing friends and relatives followed the body to its resting place in the beautiful Oak cemetery. The Herald joins the bereaved relatives in sympathy on account of the grief that has come upon them.
(Burr Oak Herald, 12-26-1944) Contributed by Jeanne Bedwell
ROSE
Mrs. Shorty Rose, formerly Mabel Hare of Randall, died at her Brookfield,
Mo., home on Sunday. Her sister, Mrs. Hamer/Harner Axelson, is a resident here.
(abstract, Jewell County Record, 11-28-1963)
ROYER
Died, near Burr Oak, Jewell Co., Kans., Aug. 16,
1893, of brain fever, Ida May Royer, daughter of friend Harry
and Bell Royer,aged ? years, 8 months and 9 days. Funeral services by Elder Eli Renner. (Gospel Messenger)
SHULER
SHULER� At the home of his daughter, Mrs. Bassard,
one and one-half miles west of Lovewell, Kans, March 8,
1895, Christian Shuler, aged 74, years, 11 months and 18 days.
He was many years a deacon in the Limestone church, Kans.
J. D. Andrews. (Gospel Messenger)
SEVERSON
Oscar Severson, son of O. Severson, living east of Randall, died in Kansas
City Feb. 14th and was buried Feb. 16th. He had gone to Kansas City about a
month ago and shortly after contracted pneumonia, from which he died.
(Concordia Daily Blade, Feb. 20, 1904)
SIMMONS
Rosa Belle Simmons, 80, died Nov. 19, 1963 at a Bellville hospital. She was born Dec. 7,
1882, to S. S. and Mary Ann Stevens Simmons, and was a lifelong resident of the Mankata
area. She is survived by three brothers: Ralph of Pomona, Calif.; Harry of Belleville and
Clarence of Burr Oak; two sisters: Mabel Ernst of Pomona, Calif.; and Ethel Bohnert of Jewell;
and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Nov. 23 at the Christian
Church in Mankato, and burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery. (abstract, Jewell County Record, 11-28-1963)
SKEELS
D. H. Skeels Rites this Eve
Prominent Farmer, Aged 73, Had been in Ill Health for Some Time
Only a few minutes after he had returned from a trip to Burr Oak, D. H. Skeels, 73, prominent farmer and stockman of the Otego neighborhood, died Tuesday morning. He has been in ill health for some time, but had been around and attending to business matter up to the time of his death.
Funeral services will be held this evening at 7 o'clock, at the Burr Oak cemetery with Rev. C. R. Vasey officiating.
DANIEL HENRY SKEELS
Daniel Henry, only son of Robert and Susan Skeels, was born near Onarga, IL on Nov 15, 1865. With his parents and his only sister, Mary, and a few friends of the family, they traveled overland by ox team, bringing all of their worldly goods and located a home on White Rock creek, five miles southwest of Burr Oak. They had their early privations and difficulties, along with all other new settlers. When their crops were completely destroyed by the grasshoppers--in the Grasshopper year--they returned to Illinois, where Mr. Skeels received his education, including a course in the Onarga Business College.
When Daniel Henry was 17 years old, the family returned to Jewell County and bought back their former farm home. When his parents moved to Burr Oak, Dan had full control of the farm, where he continuously resided for 48 years.
In 1887 Dan was united in marriage to Miss Myrtle Drake of Edmund, Kansas. One daughter, Vera, was born to bless their home.
Mr. Skeels united with the M. E. church in early manhood, gave liberally to its upkeep and enjoyed its fellowship. He attended church services regularly as long as his health would permit. He was conscientious and honest in all of his dealings, loved his neighbors and friends and constantly sought to be of service to others.
He loved his family better than anyone else in the world, but he was also a great lover of children and many a mother's baby was lulled to sleep by his crooning of some tuneful lullaby. His affection for dumb animals, particularly the horse and the dog, was unusual.
He traveled but little, but broad reading and much study gave him an understanding of many things. Few men have so many admirable characteristics and his place will not soon be filled. Some years ago he suffered a nervous breakdown which gradually broke down his health and strength and made him an invalid for several months. He passed away quietly at his home on the morning of July 18, 1939, at the age of 73 years, 8 months, and 3 days. His going will be sadly missed by his faithful wife of the home, his daughter Mrs. William Brandt, and grand-daughters Helen Ann and Rosalee of Colorado Springs, Colo., by his sister Mary Grubbs of Sterling, Colorado, and by other relative and a large circle of friends and acquaintances.
Appropriate funeral services will be held at Burr Oak cemetery this evening at 7 o'clock in charge of Rev. C.R. Vasey, the procession will leave the Merritt Funeral Home at 6:30. Music will be furnished by a double quartet, consisting of Mesdames Florence Pixler, Frances Davis, Lora Modlin, and Lillie Mann and Messrs Donald Modlin, Alfred Craighead, Dallas Davis and W. L. Mc Cormick. A vocal solo will be sung by W. M. Green of Jewell City. The hymns selected are: "A City Foursquare," Mercy," and "O, Love that Will Not Let Me Go." The pallbearers are Messrs Clarence Fearing, Charles and Emmet Lewis, A. B. Tegley and Laurel Pixler.--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr Oak Herald, 7-16-1939)
SKEELS
Prominent Pioneer Citizen is Gone
Robert Richard Skeels (see photo)
Picture if you will, a young man, strong, energetic, determined, walking into the little village of Burr Oak, March 1, 1872, having made the journey on foot with heavy baggage from Scandia, Kansas which was the farthest he could come by rail. He settled on the farm on White Rock creek five miles northwest of Burr Oak, and moved his family here the following fall. He resided there two years and returned to Illinois in 1874, only to come back to the same farm in 1881. He hauled lumber from Waterville by ox team to erect a home in the far west. There was something in the wild west that appealed to Mr. Skeels. He loved the out door life, the green earth, the face of town and country, the unspeakable rural solitudes and country, the sweet security of the streets. The sun and the sky, and breeze, and the solitary walks, and ???? and the summer holidays, and the juices of the wild meats, and society, and the the candlelight, and the fireside conversations. When he worked, he worked strenuously and when it was over there was recreation to his liking. He loved a horse, a dog, and a gun, and in those days, ample opportunity was given for them all.
In the sod-house and dug-out days, friends were friends and neighbors were neighbors. Everyone who entered this home received a warm reception.
Later on when other villages in the country sprang up, Rev. Breel who was the first pastor of the Burr Oak Charge, made frequent visits to the home, and in turn with an ox drawn wagon sojourned to their place near Jewel Centre, and on every occasion, the Skeels family sang this familiar hymn, "Home of the Soul." He took an active part in all enterprise of an uplifting nature. He was a charter member of the first M. E. Church. This organization was located one mile east of Burr Oak, and he remained a useful and loyal member to the last.
Few men indeed have filled so many varied and worthy places of trust in this county and town as did he, acting in the capacity of County Commissioner over a period of fifteen years, trustee of the school boards in every district in which he lived, filled every office in the church, and was director of the old time singing schools before the use of instruments was known. Not only did he have a fine voice, but he enjoyed and was a good judge of music. It is hard to say in a few lines what it took one long life to fill. He was heir to all of the hardships that befell the early settlers, the Indians, grasshoppers, prairie fires, hot winds in the summer and hard blizzards in winter, but undaunted, he carried on, having faith in himself, his country, and God. "Those coming first build up for those who follow, paving the future though they know not of it."
Robert Richard Skeels was one of three children, born to Henry Skeels and wife in Onarga, Illinois, January 30, 1842. Mr. Skeels had been married three times. He first wedded Susannah Riner, September 1861, and to this union two children were born, Mary Grubbs of Sterling, Colo., and Dan H. of Burr Oak. These good people were also foster parents to orphan relatives, Annie and Emmett Kennison and Jake Kiser. After his wife's death in 1892, Mrs. Frances Darling of Burr Oak became his wife. She, too, died in 1907. Mr. Skeels and Mrs. Sarah Beanblossom were united in marriage in 1911, she preceding him in death by only a few months.
Uncle Robert's life had been despaired of for some time, and after fitfully flickering for some time, the candle of life was snuffed out, the loving heart ceased to beat, and the proud spirit took its flight to that God whom he loved and feared and served on the evening of July 2, 1931, at the age of 89 years, 5 months, 2 days. He leaves to mourn his going, his son and daughter, three-grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren who, with a host of other relative and friends was limited in number to the circle of his wide acquaintances.
So passes another of the few pioneers of this section of the country who are left.
A man who radiated the sunshine of good cheer and good fellowship, a man who always had time to aid any good work for moral and material advancement of the community, giving to such work not only of his means, but of his valuable time.
A public spirited citizen, a loyal friend, a devoted husband and father, a Christian gentleman and an honest man.
The funeral services were held at the M.E. Church Sunday afternoon July 5, conduced by Ira Wagoner, assisted by Kermit C. Walker. Suitable music was rendered by the quartet and internment was made in the Burr Oak cemetery.--submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr Oak Herald, 7-9-1931)
SKEELS
Obituary of Mrs. R.R. Skeels
Sarah Alidah Bostwick, daughter of Asbael and Alidah Bostwick was born near Syracuse, N.Y., July 7, 1846 and departed this life February 23, 1931, at the age of 84 years, 7 months and 16 days. She came west to Chicago with her parents, brothers, and sister when 10 years old, and was married to Alfred Hiatt in 1868. They moved to Indiana, where two sons Maurice W. and Bertin L. were born. Later they came to Kansas and homesteaded in Butler County where her sister and other relatives settled. Here the daughter, Mrs. Alice Wilson was born.
After the death of her husband, she married David Beanblossom and later moved to his place where her daughter, Mrs. Nora L. Gleason, was born. Because of his health, they went to Missouri, but he soon passed away. She and her family returned to Burr Oak, and since that time have resided there.
Raised by Christian parents, she was a zealous Christian throughout her whole life, being one of the early members of the Methodist church and a charter member of the Cheerful Workers Sunday school class.
In 1911 she was united to Robert R. Skeels. They were known to their many friends as Uncle Robert and Aunt Sarah. She was a devoted wife and mother, always willing and ready to serve. For several years she has been in very poor health and a few weeks ago was taken to the home of her daughter, Mrs. J.S. Gleason, where she passed peacefully to her eternal home.
She leaves to mourn her loss her husband, R.R. Skeels; one son, M.W. Hiatt of Leavenworth, Kansas; two daughters, Mrs. Alice Wilson of Nelson, Nebraska, and Mrs. Nora Gleason of Burr Oak; and two step children, Mrs. Alice Bailey of Enid, Oklahoma, and Wilson Beanblossom of this place. Also nine grandchildren. A son Bertin Hiatt and three stepchildren, Mrs. Arena Burr, Mrs. Sadie Dailey, and Grant Beanblossom, preceded her in death. --submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Burr Oak Herald, 2-26-1931)
SKEELS
Susannah Riner Skeels 1842-1892
Death of Mrs. R. R. Skeels
Died--At her home in Burr Oak, Kansas, March 8, 1892. Mrs. R. R. Skeels, aged 49 years, 4 months, and 23 days. Her maiden name was Susannah Riner, daughter of Daniel and Mary Riner, and was born near Covington, Warren County, Indiana, September 15, 1842. She was the youngest of nine children, three of whom survive and live in our midst: Mrs. Jesse Drake, Mrs. Cyrus Pangborn, and Mr. William Riner. Was married at Onarga, Illinois to R. R. Skeels, November 17, 1861. She leaves a grief stricken husband and two children--Mrs. Mary Grubbs and Mr. Daniel Skeels. Her death was a shock to all as she was expecting to be out again soon after her recovery from diphtheria, when she was afflicted with rheumatism which reached her heart and she soon passed away. She had early and carefully been trained in a christian life and could not recall the period in life when she began to pray. She joined the M. E. church at the age of thirteen and has ever been a humble, loving, loyal follower of Christ. Her influence for good was unbounded and was a benediction to all with whom she came in contact. She had taught the primary class in Sunday school for a number of years and is no doubt now joined with many of her little scholars who have lately proceeded her to that Beautiful Land.
Daniel and daughter Susannah came to Onarga in 1849.
Susan Skeels:
In the death of Mrs. Susan Skeels Burr Oak loses one of the best members of its society. She was an earnest Christian. A large circle of friends mourn her untimely death, and extend their sympathy of the grief stricken family. submitted by Jeanne Bedwell (Western Advocate, 3-11-1892)
STONES
Mrs. Leona Stones, 90, died Thursday, August 8, 1963. Her husband, R. H.
Stones, preceded her in death over 25 years ago. Also preceding her in death
was a daughter, Mrs. Fred Rogers. She is survived by her children, Glenn
Stones, George Stones, Belle (Fred) Myers and Mrs. Laura Myers. Her funeral was Sunday at the
Mt. Hope church. (abstract, Jewell County Record, 8-22-1963)
SWOVLAND
Died, in the bounds of the Burr Oak church,
Kans., Sept. 20, 1895, Nellie Florence, little
daughter of Bro. Fred and sister Harriet Swovland, aged 1 year, 7 months and 3 days.
The funeral services were conducted by brethren Eli Renner and Allen Ives.
(Gospel Messenger)
VAN DUSEN
Homer G. Van Dusen, aged 22 years, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Van
Dusen who this spring bought the Will Cross farm on Brown's
Creek, was kicked was a horse near Esbon, on Monday. He suffered
until Thursday night, [May 3rd] when he died. (Jewell
Republican, May 10, 1906)
WATSON
Bessie Jane Watson, 85, died Nov. 17, 1963 at a Bellville hospital. She was born
Nov. 4, 1878 in Wyoming, Wisc., to Frank and Lucinda Darrough. At the age of eight
years, Bessie's family moved to Thomas County, Kansas. On October 24, 1903, Bessie
and Ellis Watson were married in Formoso, Kansas, and they celebrated their 50th
wedding anniversary in 1953. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband,
three brothers, Ben, Dave and Earl, and a granddaughter, Bernice. She is survived by
two sons, Charles and Harlow, both of Formoso; a brother, Henry Darrough of Topeka and
four grandchildren. Funeral services were at the Formoso Community Church, with
burial in the Balch Cemetery. (abstract, Jewell County Record, 11-28-1963)
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