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Tri-Counties Genealogy & HIstory
Newspaper Clippings & Obituaries for Tioga, Bradford, Chemung Counties
Tioga County Newspaper Abstracts Chemung County Newspaper Abstracts Obituaries By Cemetery
Tri County Clippings- Page One Hundred Forty Three
Submitted by Marolyn CAMPBELL Cole
These obituaries are presented in scrapbook order. I can't think of a better way of understanding a community than by reading an obituary scrapbook
HAMAKER – DEATH
Mrs. Hamaker, wife of John S. Hamaker, formerly owner of the News, died at her home in Farmington, Minn. Saturday night from neuralgia of the heart. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Seymour Smith of Towanda. Besides her husband she leaves four children, the youngest of whom is only a few weeks old. Word has been received here that the funeral will be tomorrow at Farmington, but whether or not the body will be brought East for interment could not be learned. The announcement of her death brings deep sorrow to Athens people, for she was widely known and universally loved by friends an highly respected by acquaintances. Of her none but the kindest thoughts can be cherished. She was the true type of noble womanhood, a devoted wife, a loving mother, a true friend. To the sorrow stricken husband and children the sympathy of their Athens friends goes out in this hour of great bereavement.
WOOD/JAKEWAY – MARRIAGE
M. B. Wood and Miss Edith Jakeway were married at 8 o'clock last evening at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ethan Jakeway, Pine St. by the Rev. C. H. Manning, pastor of the Baptist church. On account of the serious illness of the groom's father, A. H. Wood, South St. the wedding was very quiet, only the immediate friends of the contracting parties being present. The newly wedded pair left this morning for the future home in Swetar, Luzerne co., Pa., where the groom is pastor of Disciples church. Mr. Wood was graduated from the Athens High School in the class of '95 and after that took a course in Hiram College preparatory to the ministry. The bride was graduated from the High School in the class of '97 and for the past two years has been a teacher in the Athens schools. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have a large circle of friends here who wish them happiness and success in their future life.
NEVINS – DEATH
A telegram was received by Mrs. P. J. Stone last evening announcing the death of her niece, Mrs. C. P. Nevins, at 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon, at her home in Marinette, Wis. Mrs. Nevins was born 35 years ago. Her father died when she was a child and she lived a greater share of her life with Mrs. Stone. At the age of 19 years she married John Mason and resided at his home in West Virginia until his death five years later. She then returned to Athens and lived with Mrs. Stone until her second marriage to Charles P. Nevins, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Nevins, South Main St. Immediately afterwards she and her husband made .....Marinette, Wis., where he is manager of the Menominee Coal and Dock company. She was a half sister of George Loop of Sayre, and a niece of Hammond Wisner of Sayre. Her death comes as a surprise to her friends as they had heard from her about ten days ago and at that time her health was good. Nothing is known as to the cause of her death. The body will be shipped to Athens. The funeral announcement will be made later.
BURT – DEATH
The remains of Judd D. Burt arrived in Elmira Thursday morning and were taken to Woodlawn. Mr. Burt died at Buffalo Monday. He was sixty-five years old, and a son of Thomas Burt, of Chemung. He was born there and when a young man came to Elmira and studied law with Hon. G. L. Smith. He belonged to the Southern Tier Rifles, and at the outbreak of the civil war enlisted in the Twenty-third regiment, New York Volunteers, being assigned to Company K, and was discharged at the end of his term as first lieutenant. After the war he was married to Hattie, the daughter of Captain Decker, of Wellsburg. She and a son, Harry, survive. In 1864 Mr. Burt went to the Bradford oil fields and prospered. Mrs. H. D. Wells, of this city was his sister.
SPALDING – DEATH
Robert Hanson Spalding, oldest son of Mrs. Frances Spalding of Towanda, died suddenly on Saturday morning at his apartments in New York city, of heart disease. He had been ill but a few hours. Mr. Spalding was born in Towanda April 5, 1865. As a young man he located in Wilkes-Barre and was for several years connected with the theatres in that city. Later he became associated with M. B. Haupt & Co., of that city, manufacturers of house furnishings. He went to New York to take carge of their sales department, and later engaged for himself as a building contractor on a large scale in that city. He was successful and built three of the largest and finest apartment houses in that city, the Hotel Collingwood, the Ganoga and the Hotel Spalding.
Mr. Spalding married Miss Jessie Laraway of Wilkes-Barre, who died in Towanda in August 1903. He is survived by his mother and one sister, Mrs. Chas. M. Evans of Towanda and one brother E. A. Spalding of New York. Funeral services were held in New York yesterday afternoon, and the body was taken to Wilkes-Barre for interment, where services were held this afternoon.
KELLEY – DEATH
The death of James Kelley, which occurred at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Kelley, Elmira St., Monday afternoon, was unusually sad on account of the fact of an elder brother, John having died two weeks ago. Besides the bereaved parents he leaves a brother and three sisters, to mourn his departure. The funeral services will be held at the Church of the Holy Ghost tomorrow morning at 8 o'clock, the Rev. Father O'Rourke holding requiem mass. James Kelley was born at Athens June 10, 1879. He attended the public schools and was considered a bright pupil. At the close of his high school instruction he took a business course at the Elmira School of Commerce, but never held a position in a mercantile establishment on account of his delicate physical condition. He was devotedly attached to his parents and brothers and sisters. Those who knew him sincerely regret his death at a time when life means so much to a young man.
GOETCHIUS – DEATH
Wm. H. Goetchius, whose death from typhoid fever occurred November 30, 1900, at his home on Church St. was the second son of Mr. and Mrs. H. D. Goetchius of East Athens. He was born at Green's Landing, June 22, 1875 and has spent his life in Athens and vicinity. His illness lasted less than two weeks but his suffering was severe.
On September 27, 1899, he was united in marriage with Bertha Maude Newton since which time he had resided at his late residence. Though not a member of any church, Mr. Goetchius was a young man of upright principle. He was an unusually loving husband and father and his sunny smile and pleasant good humor linger in the hears of many friends. The funeral which was largely attended was held at the house December 3, at 2 o'clock, the Rev. C. A. Benjamin officiating; Messrs Dill, Schermerhorn, Kunes, Brainard, Edward and Sam Drew acted as pall bearers. "Sometime We'll Understand" and "And I Shall See Him Face to Face," were very sweetly rendered by Mrs. McClen.
The heart broken family are a wife and baby, father and mother, a sister and two brothers. The relatives and friends bade a long farewell to the peaceful face amongst the flowers and then he was laid at rest in Tioga Point cemetery to await the dear ones who soon must follow.
PRINCE – DEATH
The funeral of Henry A. Prince, who was struck and instantly killed by Lehigh train No. 1 Saturday afternoon, was held at Towanda this afternoon. The following employees of the signal corps of the Pennsylvania division of the Lehigh, fellow workmen of the deceased, were in attendance: F. E. Wass of Sayre, supervisor of signals, John Nash of Sayre, supervisor of tracks, Robert Wass of Sayre, assistant supervisor of signals; R. F. Vannear and T. J. Miller of VanEtten, W. C. Long of Laceyville, F. L. Marshall of Rummerfield, J. D. LeFrance of Falls, J. Huetteg, E. E. Lott and F. S. Hanck of Geneva; J. J. Kelly of Lodi, H. E. Arnold of Burdett, F. E. Hill of Tunkhannock, all being signal repair men; J. B. Carrol of Sayre and B. R. Seibel of Towanda, battery-men; W. W. Wiltse of Towanda, lam-man. The signal men showed their appreciation for their departed fellow workman by presenting a beautiful floral tribute.
BRISTOL – DEATH
James A. Bristol, an old and respected resident of Athens, died at his residence on Main St., at 9:40 o'clock last night after an illness of three weeks of paralysis. He was born in Milford, Conn. March 2, 1828. He went from there to Charleston, S. C. Where the younger part of his life was spent and moved to Athens about 45 years ago, engaging in the grocery business with F. T. Page under the firm of Page & Bristol. Later he became a carriage manufacturer. His factory was destroyed by fire and then he went into the lumber business. He had been secretary of Tioga Point cemetery for a number of years and widely and highly respected by all who knew him, but in business and social circles. He married Miss Ellen M. Page of Athens in 1860. He is survived by one brother Charles of Danbury, Conn. Four daughters Mrs. E. H. Connor and Miss Julia Bristol of Levenworth Kansas, Misses Clara and Elizabeth who live at home and a son Thomas of Cortland. The funeral will be held from the residence Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock and interment made in Tioga Point cemetery, Rev. W. H. Sawtelle of the Presbyterian church will officiate.
PERKINS – FUNERAL
The funeral of Miss E. A. Perkins was held from her late home, on South Main street at 10 o'clock Thursday morning, after which the body was taken to Ithaca for interment. The arrangements were in charge of Rogers & Miller, and the acting pall bearers were: Joe Ely, H. C. Smith, Joseph Thurston, G. A. Kinney, M. P. Murray, Howard Allen, D. A. Macafee and E. G. Fitch.
KEEFE – DEATH
John Keefe died at the home of his brother, D. A. Keefe, on North street, at 9 o'clock Wednesday evening of inflammation of the brain after a brief illness, aged thirty-two years. The deceased leaves two brothers D. A. And T. A. Keefe, and two sisters Mary and Anna Keefe, all residents of Athens. The funeral services were held from St. Joseph's church Friday morning at 9 o'clock.
WELLER – FUNERAL
The funeral of the late Fred Weller was held from the house at 11 o'clock this morning. Rev. E. W. DeWitt officiated and interment was made in Tioga Point cemetery. The pall bearers were George MacMorran, Edward MacMorran, James Underwood, George Weller, C. A. Weller and A. J. MacMorran, cousins of the deceased.
FOX – DEATH
WOMAN DIED IN UNTOLD AGONY
Frightfully burned as a result of having her clothing catch fire, while engaged in boiling sap, Mrs. Betsy Fox died at her home in North Chemung at 5 o'clock yesterday morning. The accident occurred Monday afternoon and the injured woman suffered untold agony up to a short time before her death.
Mrs. Fox was housekeeper for Daniel Lathrop, who was in Elmira on business when the woman received the fatal burns. She was engaged in boiling sap, and had reached over to take the syrup out of the kettle, when the flames ignited her dress. Miss May Howard, a neighbor, whose house is located about forty rods from the home of Mrs. Fox, saw the doomed woman's clothing burst into flames, which quickly enveloped her body. With great presence of mind, Miss Howard grabbed a shawl and rushed to the assistance of Mrs. Fox. Throwing the shawl about the woman Miss Howard beat every effort to smother the flames, which threatened to entirely consume the body of their victim before anything could be done to prevent. Miss Howard finally procured water with which she managed to extinguish the fire, but not until the woman's clothing had been entirely burned off. Dr. Foster Hall was summoned immediately after the accident, and did everything in his power to alleviate Mrs. Fox's suffering and save her life. His efforts, however, proved to little avail as the flames had done their deadly work. Her body was horribly burned as was her head, hair and arms. The flames did not reach the woman's face, which was about the only part of the entire body which escaped.
Mrs. Fox is survived by one brother, Abner M. Collson; two sisters, Mrs. Harry Hugg and Miss Jerusia Collson; all of North Chemung. The funeral will be held at the church in North Chemung at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon.
PARK – DEATH
William Kellogg Park died at his home in Philadelphia yesterday afternoon at 1 o'clock, after a short illness of pneumonia. Mr. Park was born in Athens, April 9, 1866, and his early years were spent here. He at one time was employed in the templet shop of the Bridge works but he had a decided talent for sportmanship and for a long time has been editor of the Sporting News of Philadelphia. He was a young man of strict integrity and honor and enjoyed the confidence of all his associates. He was married to Miss Margaret Kirkwood of Malden, Mass. And together they have had a pleasant home in Philadelphia. His mother, Mrs. L. M. Park, was called to his bedside when his symptoms became alarming and she was with him when he died. He leaves a widow but no children. The arrangements for the funeral have not been made but his remains will probably be sent to Athens for burial.
SMITH – DEATH
Athens, Dec. 12—Mrs. John Smith died last night at her home on Ferry street after a brief illness, aged thirty-nine years. The funeral together with that of her baby born on Sunday will be held from the family residence Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock, interment at Tioga Point cemetery in charge of Rogers & Miller. The deceased leaves besides her sorrowing husband, two sisters, Mrs. Huff and Mrs. Campbell, both of this place and a brother of East Athens.
ELSBREE – DEATH
Manson Elsbree, who died yesterday morning at his home near Tozer's bride, was born November 12, 1829, in Windham township. He was a son of the late Joseph Elsbree to whom were born four sons and two daughters, all of whom are now dead. The sons were Alexander, Nathan, Manson and Piatt, and the daughters were, Mrs. Maria Dunham and Mrs. Almira Kingsland.
Manson Elsbree was married in early manhood to Miss Theresa Knapp and to them were born two sons, Joseph and Fred, and one daughter, Martha, of whom Fred and Mrs. Elsbree survive. After his marriage Mr. Elsbree settled on a farm in Windham, and in 1856 moved to a farm in Athens township and subsequently to Sheshequin where he followed farming for about ten years. He then came to Athens borough and for several years was engaged in a general mercantile business with Fred Page. Giving this up he returned to farming and a few years later returned to Athens, and after ten years residence here, located on the farm near Tozer's bridge, where he had lived up to the time of his death. He had given years of study to the breeding of Jersey and Holstein cattle, and had raised some of the finest herds in Bradford county. Always industrious and thrifty he had by hard work and strict integrity amassed a comfortable competence. He was a trustee of the estate of the late Alexander C. Elsbree, and had been interested in various business enterprises in Athens. Conservative, yet progressive, he was a man of sound business judgment and so zealously had he guarded his integrity, that it was a common saying among those with whom he had dealings that "his word was as good as his bond." He was an exemplary citizen and one of the most reliable and substantial men in Bradford County.
PARSHALL – DEATH
Mrs. Luther Parshall died Wednesday afternoon at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. K. Park, on South Main street, from pneumonia. The funeral was held at 10:30 o'clock this morning and interment made in Tioga Point cemetery.
DECKER – DEATH
Mrs. Jane Decker died yesterday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. David Robinson, on North street. She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. David Robinson, Mrs. William Robinson and Mrs. Rebecca Ackley. The funeral will be held from the house Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock.
LYNCH/FLEMING – MARRIAGE
Miss Mary Lynch and James Fleming were married in St. Joseph's church at 8 o'clock Tuesday morning, nuptial high mass being celebrated by Rev. M. F. O'Rourke. A wedding breakfast was served at the Hotel Bonney. Mr. and Mrs. Fleming will begin house-keeping at once in their newly furnished home on First Street.
OVERTON – DEATH
DEATH CAME SUDDENLY TO PROMINENT LAWYER
Colonel Edward Overton, one of the oldest and most prominent members of the Bradford county bar, died suddenly at his home in Towanda about 6 o'clock last evening, after a week's illness with pneumonia. The immediate cause of the death was apoplexy. He was sitting at his table in the library, fully dressed when he sustained an apoplectic stroke and fell forward in his chair. A member of the family found him a few moments later. He was removed to a couch and expired as he sank upon it. Colonel Overton was born in Towanda Feb. 4, 1836, being the youngest son of Edward Overton who for 50 years was at the head of the bar of this county. After finishing the course in the Towanda schools, he entered Princton and was graduated in the class of 1856. He studies law in Judge Mercur's office and was admitted to practice in 1858. In September 1861 he enlisted in the Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was elected major. No regiment in the great struggle experienced more field service or endured more hard work than the Fiftieth, which largely earned its title of the "Old Reliable" under Mr. Overton's command. The colonel of the regiment, B. C. Christ, was breveted briagdier-general, Lieutenant-Colonel Brenholtz was killed at Big Black River on July 16, 1863, from which time Colonel Overton was in command of the regiment. At the close of the war, by order of the secretary of war, the legend "In thirty-eight battles" was inscribed on its banners. Colonel Overton was wounded but once, at the Battle of Antietam, where he received a gun shot wound in the leg.
After the war he returned to Towanda and resumed his practice and in 1867 he was appointed register in bankrupcy, a post he held for ten years. In 1876 he was elected to congress and served four years, being re-elected. He was one of but five Pennsylvania congressmen to be especially mentioned by James G. Blaine in his book "Twenty Years in Congress." Always a Republican, he took a deep interest and active part in politics. Colonel Overton was largely interested in business, being president of the Citizens National bank for several years and the principal owner on the Humphrey Manufacturing company. In 1869 he was married to Colette T. Rosseel, daughter of Rev. And Mrs. Joseph A. Rosseel, who with four children, Francis C. Overton, Mrs. H. C. Passage, J. Rosseel Overton and Miss Eliza C. Overton, survive him.
PERKINS – DEATH
Miss Sarah A. Perkins, one of the oldest residents of Athens, and the only surviving sister of the late Edward H. Perkins, died at her home on South Main St. at 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon, from the infirmities incident upon her advanced years. The funeral services will be held at her home Thursday morning at 10 o'clock; interment private.
Sarah A. Perkins was born in Norwich, Conn., July 7, 1815, her parents removing to Ithaca when she was ten years old. After the death of her parents she came to Athens where she had since resided. Miss Perkins had always taken an active part in church work, being one of the most loyal and zealous members of the Athens Presbyterian church. Of a retiring and kindly disposition she won the esteem and love of a large circle of friends.
LITTLE – DEATH
CHILD DROWNED---EIGHTEEN-MONTHS-OLD CHILD OF MR. AND MRS. STANLEY J. LITTLE MET DEATH IN LAKE WESAUKING
The most heartbreaking fatality to be recorded in this vicinity in may years, occurred at Lake Wesauking yesterday forenoon, when the little son of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley J. Little, of Athens, was drowned. The little fellow was eighteen months old, and for several weeks had been with his mother at the cottage of Charles P. Welles, his grandfather. Yesterday morning, about eleven o'clock he was missed and search was instantly begun among the neighboring cottages, the idea of a serious accident not entering the minds of those about the premises. Not finding the child at the neighboring cottages search was directed toward the water, and at 11:30 he was discovered lying in the water under the dock in front of the Welles cottage. It was necessary to dive to recover the body. Heroic work was done for several hours in a vain attempt at resuscitation. Just how long he had lain in the water is not known, but probably several minutes. When missed he had not been out of sight but two or three minutes-—hen last seen he was playing on the lawn in front of the house.
Stanley Little was a very bright and active child, the idolized pet of his parents and grandparents. His death is a heartbreaking blow to the family and has cast a cloud over the life at the lake, where he was a great favorite.—Towanda Daily Review
HADLOCK – DEATH
Vawter, Aug. 19—Saturday evening, about ten o'clock, the sad news of the death of her son, Wm. D. Hadlock, was brought to Mrs. E. A. Hadlock. He was working about four miles from Ricketts, in the lumber woods, piling bark, when he threw up his arms and dropped dead. At the post mortem, the doctor pronounced it rheumatism of the heart. C. M. Vibbert and P. M. Drake went to Ricketts early Sunday morning, to care for the body, which was brought to Athens and left at Rogers & Miller's undertaking rooms until further arrangements could be made. The deceased was a strong, healthy young man, twenty-one years of age the day before his death. Several telegrams were sent to his father and brother, who are in Sault Saint Marie, Michigan, but no answer was received. The funeral was held Tuesday at 2:30 p.m., at the Merrill school-house, Rev. E. N. Kline, of Litchfield officiating. Burial in Hadlock cemetery. Singing by Miss Bell Goff, Miss Jennie Cotton, Stephen Bostwick and C. B. Arnold. The mother has the sympathy of all in her bereavement.
WELLES – DEATH
Mrs. Eliza Saltmarsh Welles, wife of the late George Welles, died on Saturday, July 11, at Kansas City, Missouri. The remains will be brought here for interment in Tioga Point cemetery, probably tomorrow. Mrs. Welles was a native of Athens, being the daughter of John Saltmarsh, whose father settled in Athens in 1801. She married George, son of General henry Welles, and most of her life was spent here where she was well known and much beloved. About 15 or 20 years ago she removed to Kansas City where she has since resided with her only surviving child, George Welles, Jr. She was a sister of Orlando Saltmarsh of Troy.
MUNN – DEATH
At the home of her daughter Mrs. E. A. Demerest, Waverly, N.Y., yesterday occurred the death of Mrs. Mary Ann Munn, widow of the late Thomas Munn, formerly of Litchfield. Mrs. Munn was born in London, England, October 15, 1824, she came to this country at the age of fifteen years with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Lambert. They first settled in New York City afterwards coming to Athens where they spent the remainder of their life.
She was married to Thomas Munn when but eighteen years of age. Eleven children were born to them, of which eight survive: Robert and William Munn, of Endicott, N.Y.; Earnest and Worthy of Litchfield; Mrs. E. A. Demerest, of Waverly; Mrs. E. F. Keeler and Mrs. Fred Spaulding, of Athens. The funeral services will be held at the home Friday afternon at 1 o'clock, interment will be made in the Orange Hill cemetery.
WESTBROOK – DEATH
ACCIDENTAL KILLING OF YOUNG ENOCH WESTBROOK
The accidental killing of Enoch Westbrook, aged twelve years, by Guy Waters, aged eight was told in an extra edition of The Gazette yesterday. Guy Waters left the home of his father on Diven Avenue at 12:50 o'clock yesterday afternoon to go to school. He passed through the yard back of the house, crossed Norton Street and went down Hall Street, which brought him to the Westbrook residence, where he was joined by Enoch Westbrook and some other boys. The boys had been making willow whistles. The Westbrook boy had his knife, which he had recently sharpened, in his hand. The Waters boy had his knife in his pocket. The company of boys started for school with the Waters boy in the lead. They were all running. Young Waters in attempting to take his knife from his pocket dropped it and when he leaned down to pick it up Enoch Westbrook ran into him hitting his arm and thereby running the knife which Westbrook carried in his hand into his own body.
PURDY – DEATH
Athens, November 15..Mrs. Frances Purdy died at an early hour this morning at the residence of Joseph McDaniels, on River St. The deceased was fifty-one years of age and leaves of her immediate family three brothers, Charles Carpenter, of Pittsburg, Pa.; Clarence Carpenter of Horseheads, N.Y., and William Carpenter, of Corning, N.Y. Mrs. Purdy had been for many years a resident of Athens and was well known as a prominent member in Christian Science circles. During her last illness, which was of several weeks' duration, she was, however, attended by two local physicians. The funeral arrangements have not as yet been made.
COOPER – DEATH
Mrs. Clarissa A. Cooper died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. E. C. Potter, Paine St., at 10:30 o'clock last night, at the age of 71 years. Mrs. Cooper had been an invalid for the last two years, but she had been confined to her bed only a week prior to her death. She had always lived in this vicinity and was well known and universally admired. She was a member of the Presbyterian church. One brother, Samuel Davidson of Ghent, and two daughters, Mrs. E. C. Potter and Mrs. C. S. Drake, both of this place survive her. The funeral will be held at the residence of E. C. Potter, Paine St. Wednesday afternon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. W. H. Sawtelle officiating. Interment will be made in Tioga Point cemetery.
CAMPBELL – DEATH
INSTANTLY KILLED BY BLACK DIAMOND
Emerson Campbell was instantly killed by the Black Diamond express train a few rods south of Morley's crossing on the Lehigh Valley railroad about 3:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Mr. Campbell, who was an employee in the Cove planing mill, was walking to his home in Greens Landing on the westbound track when just below Morley's crossing he saw train No 1 approaching and stepped to the eastbound track to let it pass only to be struck by Black Diamond No 16. He was hurled aside by the locomotive and nearly every bone in his body was broken and his head crushed. Death was practically instantaneous. The body was taken on the train to the Milan station and then removed to the undertaking parlors of Rogers & Miller and prepared for burial. The funeral will be held at the Baptist church tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. E. W. DeWitt officiating. Emerson Campbell was born in Towanda in 1848. In October 1864 he enlisted as a private in Co. D 76th Pa. Vol, and was discharged at Smithville, N. Y., June 22, 1865. He was a member of Parkins Post G. A. R. He leaves besides his wife, one son William of Athens and two daughters, Mrs. Edith Harris of Corning and Miss Winifred who lives at home.
WHEELER – DEATH
WELL KNOWN MAN CARRIED OUT HIS THREAT OF SELF DESTRUCTION MADE LAST THURSDAY
The body of Joseph P. Wheeler, who suddenly disappeared from his home on Keystone Ave., near the borough line last Thursday was found by his son William Wheeler and Wm. Conrad in the Susquehanna river near the old slaughter house at the "Cove" about seventy rods below the point where his hat was found Saturday afternoon. Wheeler left home Thursday morning saying that he was going to drown himself, but it was not thought that his threat was at all serious. No trace could be found of him until Saturday afternoon when a hat was found near the "Cove" which Mrs. Wheeler said belonged to her husband. The river was not searched until yesterday afternoon, as Mrs. Wheeler and her son William still believed that he was safe and sound at the home of a relative or friends. Yesterday afternoon his son, assisted by William Conrad, secured grappling irons and a boat, leaving the Susquehanna river bridge about 3:30 o'clock. A half an hour later they were rewarded by finding the body at the point stated above, in the main part of the stream in about seven feet of water and was in a remarkably good state of preservation.
Justice of the Peace Johnson was summoned as an acting coroner and the body was taken to the undertaking rooms of Rogers & Miller, where it was prepared for burial. The funeral will be held at the house at 11 o'clock Thursday morning, Perkins Post, G. A. R., of which he was a member having charge of the services, a detail from Battery B acting as pall bearers.
Joseph P. Wheeler was born in Warren township in 1836 and hadlived practically all his life in Bradford county, following the occupation of farming until three years ago when he retired and moved to Sayre. He is survived by his wife and one son, William.
DRAKE – DEATH
Waverly—Wesley Drake, a brother in law of O. F. Benson of this village, died at Philadelphia yesterday morning. Mr. Drake was well known in this section having formerly resided in Athens, and he lived at the home of Mr. Benson during the past winter and went to Philadelphia about two weeks ago. Mr. Benson left yesterday morning for Williamsport where the funeral will take place, and Mrs. Benson went this morning.
KELLOGG – DEATH
Mrs. Charles Kellogg, wife of Charles Kellogg, and one of the best known and highly respected women of Athens, died at the family home on South Main St. at 11 o'clock last night after a long and severe illness from nervous prostration. She had been a great sufferer for the last three years but had been confined to her bed only about three weeks prior to her death. The funeral will be held at the residence, Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. W. L Daw officiating. Interment will be made in Tioga Point cemetery.
Mrs. Kellogg's maiden name was Annie Augusta Pike. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Pike, and was the last surviving of six children. She was born in Ulster, June 25, 1842, and was married to Charles Kellogg September 12, 1867. To them were born two children, Clara (Mrs. John C. McMynn), who died in March 1901 and Charles F. Mrs. McMynn had been a great sufferer during the last year of her life and the constant devotion of her mother to her undermined the latter's health.
WELLER – DEATH
Fred M. Weller died at his home on Sutliff Hill last evening at 9 o'clock, after a week's illness from pneumonia. A week ago yesterday he drove to Athens and as the day was bitterly cold he was taken with a severe chill on his way home which later developed into the disease which caused his death.
Fred M. Weller was the son of N. V. Weller of Athens and was born in Athens township 37 years ago. He leaves a wife and two children a son and daughter about six and eight years old, besides his father, a sister, Mrs. I. R. Horton of Williamsport and a brother, Harry Weller of Creston, Iowa. He had spent his entire life in Athens township and for 13 years conducted a retail milk business in this borough. He was an industrious young man and by his genial manner and strict integrity had made a host of friends. The funeral will be held at his late home Saturday morning at 11 o'clock; interment in Tioga Point cemetery.
Mrs. F. E. Decker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Cook of this place, died yesterday at St. Louis hospital. Mr. Decker arrived here with the remains this noon. Announcement of the funeral will be made later. Mrs. Decker was 32 years old and besides her husband and parents is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Joseph Underwood of Kansas City and Mrs. D. D. Jayne of Athens, and one brother, Judson L. Cook of Philadelphia.
Very rarely has our community been so deeply moved with sorrow, as it was last Thursday afternoon when the announcement was made that Robert B. Park had died. His illness had been of short duration, and that he was critically ill was known to but few, so that the tidings of his death came as a surprise and a shock to a great many of his acquaintances and friends. It was one of those events that bring a momentary hush over the community and a sense of personal loss to many hearts. The primary cause of his death was a partial sunstroke received July 7, while visiting his home here, but he seemed to recover from it and after a short time returned to work. But he was soon afterwards taken with severe pains in his head which developed into cerebral congestion. He returned here Aug. 13, and although his condition was not thought to be alarming at the time, yet the disease progressed rapidly until his death Thursday afternoon, Aug. 24.
Robert Bruce Park was the second son of the late Dana F. and Lydia M. Park, and was born in Athens, May 7, 1870. His childhood and youth were spent in the place of his birth, and he received his early training in the Athens public schools, but was especially fitted for college under the instructions of his mother, who for a number of years conducted a private school here. He was graduated as a civil engineer from Cornell University in the class of 1904. His first employment was by the American Bridge Company as a draftsman. At the opening of the Spanish war he was sent by the company as engineer to construct a government coaling station on the Tortugas, where he remained fifteen months until the breaking out of the yellow fever, and left on the last boat that was permitted to leave that port. He then passed a civil service examination successfully and received the appointment of Inspector in the government Navy Yard at Norfolk, Va., and not long afterwards was transferred to the yard at League Island. Having passed another examination in civil service he was assigned to a place on the office force, and later was appointed to the office of Draftsman in Charge of Steel Structural Work in the Department of Yards and Docks, which position he occupied when he was taken ill. Last January he passed the severe examination for assistant civil engineer under the Panama Commission, and was in correspondence with that Commission with a view to an appointment to a responsible position on the Isthmus, which he would doubtless have received in the near future.
Mr. Park was married to Miss Nellie Rita, the oldest daughter of Charles M. Myer, of Athens, Dec. 21, 1898. To them has been born one daughter, Gertrude Lydia. Besides his wife and little daughter he is survived by his mother, Mrs. Lydia M. Park, who resides in the old home, three brothers, viz: Irving K. of Athens Pa.; William K. of Philadelphia, Pa., and Charles D. Of New York City; and one sister, mrs. Dr. C. M. Carpenter, of Boston, Mass. These are all mourners indeed, made such by the providence which has taken from them an ideal son and brother, husband and father, but they do not mourn as those who have no hope.
The funeral services were held at the family home on Saturday afternoon at four o'clock. They were conducted by the Rev. W. H. Sawtelle, pastor of the Presbyterian church, assisted by the Rev. C. R. Phelps of East Smithfield, who had known the deceased from early childhood and who paid a beautiful personal tribute to his life and character. The floral offerings were many and lovely. The burial was in the family plot in Tioga Point cemetery, the bearers being Messrs. W. H. Allen, R. F. Page, h. F. Walker, J. T. Sanford of Athens, and C. C. West and P. L. Hayden of Sayre. The service at the grave was the beautiful Masonic Ritual, in charge of Rural Amity Lodge, F. & A. M. of which Mr. Park was a member.
OSBORNE – DEATH
Paul M., the four-years-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer L. Osborne, North Elmira St. died last night at 9 o'clock. He came down with the measles last Thursday and was apparently getting along as well as could be expected, but yesterday he caught cold, was taken with convulsions and died. His parents have one other child, a son aged six years. The funeral services will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock from the house; interment at Tioga Point cemetery. The Rev. W. H. Sawtelle will officiate.
VANSICE – DEATH
Mrs. Amelia E. VanSice, wife of A. Y. VanSice died at her home on Ann St. yesterday at 1:30 o'clock, death being due to a paralytic stroke which she sustained last Sunday. She remained conscious however until the end came. The funeral services will be held at the house tomorrow afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. E. W. DeWitt, of the Baptist church officiating. Interment will be made in Tioga Point cemetery. Her maiden name was Amelia E. Drake and she was born in Athens township 70 years ago. She leaves besides her husband, four daughters, Mrs. P. Knopp of Wathena, Kan., Mrs. H. C. Sheldon and Mrs. F. J. Johnson of Athens, and Mrs. W. H. French of Chemung, and one son, A. M. VanSice of Athens. She is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Jane Perry and Mrs. H. C. Johnson of Athens and two brothers, C. S. Drake of Litchfield and C. M. Drake of Athens.
PENDLETON – DEATH
C. E. Pendleton died at Philadelphia last week. He was familarly known in Athens and Waverly as "Ed" Pendleton, and was a young man of fine character and good social qualities, and a musician of ability. He was born in Orwell and lived there till attaining manhood. He came to Athens on the organization of the Athens Cornet Band and was their teacher. Afterward he was cashier of the Home Savings Bank in Waverly. Of late years he has been engaged in farming in Dakota until stricken with paralysis a few years ago, when he went to Philadelphia for treatment. He will be remembered for his genial social qualities and sincerely mourned by his friends.
VAN VALKENBURG – DEATH
MISS KATIE VAN VALKENBURG POURS OIL AND TURPENTINE ON HER CLOTHING AND THEN SET FIRE TO IT
Miss Katie Van Valkenburg, aged 27 years, and a daughter of a prominent farmer who resides near VanEttenville, committed suicide yesterday morning in a most shocking and sensational manner. The young woman ended her existence by saturating her clothing with kerosene oil and turpentine and then setting fire to it. After igniting the hydrocarbons she ran from the house to the garden and sat down on the ground. She remained in this position until her clothing had been literally burned from her body. A small boy saw the burning woman and notified his mother. The latter secured the assistance of a neighbor and the two women who had by this time become frantic, attracted the attention of several workmen who rushed to the rescue of the burning girl. The burning tatters of clothing were removed from her body and she was wrapped in a blanket and carried into the house. A physician was summoned and a heroic effort was made to save her life. She was conscious and when asked why she did the horrible deed replied that something forced her to do it. On account of the nerve centers having been destroyed by the flames the woman did not suffer excruciating pain. Death came to her relief about noon, nearly three hours after she set fire to her clothing.
The reason assigned for Miss VanValkenburg's rash act is over study. She had been preparing to take an examination for a teachers' state certificate, and it is believed that the work temporarily unseated her reason. She was highly respected, a prominent member and worker in the Methodist church of VanEttenville and the shocking manner in which she destroyed herself has startled the whole community.
Mrs. Mary Francis Purdy died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph McDaniels, on River street, Thursday morning of cander. She is survived by three brothers, Charles, William and Clarence Carpenter. The remains were taken to Horseheads Thursday morning where the funeral was held and interment made.
TOLES – DEATH
Revilo H. Toles died at the Soldiers Home in Dodge city, Kansas, December 4. He was formerly an Athens citizen where he was engaged in blacksmithing. He went to Kansas about 20 years ago. He leaves a wife and two sons. His wife's maiden name was Miss Eliza Stone, a daughter of Mrs. Ann Stone, an old Athens resident, who died about a year ago at the age of 100 years.
BUCKLEY/LEAHEY – MARRIAGE
Allen W. Buckley and Miss Mildred M. Leahey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Leahey of Center street, were united in marriage by the Rev. M. F. O'Rourke yesterday afternoon at 3 o'clock. The ceremony, which was in the presence of the relatives of the contracting parties and a few immediate friends, was performed at the Rev. O'Rourke's new home on Mile Hill. Miss Theresa Kelly, a cousin of the bride acted as bridesmaid and James Splann as best man. Mr. and Mrs. Buckley have gone on a wedding trip to buffalo and vicinity. The bride who has resided here for many years is well known and has many friends. Mr. Buckley is a prominent young man in social circles and his many friends extend their best wishes for a happy and successful wedded life for the couple.
BERMINGHAM – DEATH
Sad indeed came the tidings of the death last Tuesday at Buffalo, where he had gone upon advice of his physician, of Michael Bermingham, for years a respected and worthy citizen of Elmira. In life he seemed all that God wished man to be, charitable always, forgiving and forgetting an injury; honest in all that the term implies; devout to a marked degree, fulfilling to the greatest extent religious obligations and encouraging others to the better and nobler life. He was always contented with his lot, although striving by ambitious effort to accomplish the most with his talents. In the family he will be remembered as a devoted husband and a loving father. Born in Ireland, in County Clare, in 1840, he grew to manhood, receiving the advantages of such education as was afforded by common and parish school facilities in those days. In 1860 he came to this country and found employment in Elmira as a blacksmith. For years he was one of the foremost master horseshoers of the vicinity, and with the exception of a short time spent in conducting a shop at Pine City, was in business here. His shop on East Market street was a favorite place for those who sought to pass a few pleasant moments, and to hear words of good cheer and encouragement from the master as he worked at his forge. In 1865 Mr. Bermingham was united in marriage to Miss Nora McInerney, and she survives him, with six children, namely; Thomas F., Mary, Michael, John, Susan and Rev. Joseph Bermingham, the latter of St. Marys church, of Niagara Falls.
The funeral services were held at 9 o'clock Friday morning from the late residence, No. 310 Washington street, and the large concourse that assembled there and at SS Peter and Paul's church at 10 o'clock was a glowing testimony of esteem and love borne for the departed. Martin Shannon, Thomas B. Jones, William J. Burke, Abe O'Connor, Thomas Lynch and Andrew O'Dea were the bearers. At the church solemn requiem high mass was celebrated, with the son of the deceased, the Rev. Father Joseph Bermingham, as celebrant; Father Long, the pastor, as deacon, Father Sullivan, as sub-deacon, and Father McNab of Niagara Falls, as master of ceremonies. In the sanctuary were Father Bloomer, Maley Stemler, McCrone, and Wall. The burial was in SS Peter and Paul's cemetery.
Among those from out of the city who were in attendance, were Mrs. Timothy Spilliard of Williamsport; John Spillard of Renova; John Leonard, Thomas Bermingham, and Michael Bermingham, of Blossburg; Timothy and Thomas Shallon, of Hallstead, Pa.; Mrs. McMahon, of Susquehanna, Pa.; Mrs. McMahon and Miss Mollie Quinlan, of Jersey City; Miss Susan Bermingham of Bath; Mrs. Nora O'Connell and Mrs. McCarthy, of Corning; Dr. Thomas Foley, John Mack and Mrs. Catherine Cunningham, of Buffalo; Dr. A. J. Lawler, Daniel M. Lynch, and Miss Elizabeth Lynch, of Niagara Falls. The master horsehoer's, who called at the house in a body, and took a last view of all that remained of their friend, adopted the following preamble and resolutions:
Elmira, N.Y., Sept. 1, 1904—It is with profound regret that we, the members of the Master Horse-Shoers Protective association, Local No. 237, of Elmira, N. Y., are called upon to record the death of one of our esteemed members, Brother Michael Bermingham, it having pleased Our Almighty Father, in His divine dispensation to remove him from among us, be it further----Resolved, That by his death, there has been removed from us one of our faithful and loyal members, loved and respected by all. Resolved, That we extend to his afflicted family our heartfelt sympathy in their affliction. Resolved. That a copy of these resolutions be given to his family, a copy sent to the Horse-shoer's Journal for publication, and that a copy be spread upon the minutes of our local. COMMITTEE
MORISON – DEATH
Mrs. Dora Case Morison, wife of William C. Morison, passed from this life and its activities yesterday afternoon at 1:35 o'clock, pneumonia being the cause of her death. Surviving her are the husband and two little boys, six and seven years of age respectively. Funeral services will be held at the house on North Main St. at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon; interment in the family plot at Tioga Point cemetery.
Dora Case Morison was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Roswell L. Case, both deceased. She was born in Orwell, Pa., in March, 1867, and the early years of her life were spent in that place. Her parents moved to Riggs about 14 years ago, where the subject of this sketch resided until her marriage to Mr. Morison on September 6, 1892, at East Smithfield. Since that time she had lived in Athens. Mrs. Morison was a woman of unfaltering Christian character. She joined the Presbyterian church when a young girl and during her residence in Smithfield township taught a class in the Sunday school, besides being active in work in other directions. She was admitted to the Athens Presbyterian church by letter, but the duties of home and a constitution none too strong prevented the active participation in church work which had characterized her earlier life. With her gentle disposition and amiable qualities she was well adapted to make home happy, and she most faithfully and lovingly discharged the duties of wife and mother. The shadow that has fallen now across the threshold of that home is deep, but beyond it there is light; for the souls of the righteous are in the hands of the Lord in whom is no darkness.
KINNEY – DEATH
Miss Jennie E. Kinney, whose critical illness was announced in Monday's News, died at a sanatarium in Battle Creek, Mich., yesterday afternoon. The body was brought here this afternoon by her uncle, O. D. Kinney and taken to the home of her cousin, C. H. Satterlee on South Main St., where the funeral will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock; interment will be made in Tioga Point cemetery.
Jennie E. Kinney was born in Williamsport 33 years ago and lived the greater part of her life in Athens. She was a member of the class that graduated from the Athens High School in 1884 and soon after her graduation she went to Atlanda, Ga., where she resided for the next seven years. She was a teacher in the seminary at Shelbyville, Ky., for several years coming back to Athens frequently to visit friends. For several years she had been a great sufferer from stomach troubles and had gone to Battle Creek for treatment, but so firmly seated had the disease become that medical skill proved unavailing. The news of her death brings with it deep and sincere sorrow, for she was loved and admired by those who knew her for those sterling qualities of mind and heart, that sunny disposition, that unwavering loyalty of high ideals, and unfaltering trust in her Master, that form the character of noble womanhood.
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