Christian Henry Frahm

FRAHM, WESSEL, KARLOFF, BROHM, HARLOFF

Posted By: Diana Henry Diedrich (email)
Date: 2/18/2007 at 08:51:00

Pioneer at Rest

Christian Henry Frahm was born in Holstein, Germany in 1830, and died Dec. 13, 1918, at his home on Mays Prairie. Came to America in 1856 and worked as a laborer in Chicago, Dubuque, Davenport, Waukon and Lansing, settling down at Mays Prairie. In 1868 he married Marie Anna Wessel, who died Aug. 8, 1903. Five children were born to them, three of whom, died in infancy. He was converted and joined the church in 1872. He was a sincere, conscientious Christian and church member to the day of his death. Such confidence die the church put in him that he was for many years class leader, trustee and Steward. He helped build the church on Mays Prairie. As a pioneer he was energetic, hopeful, courageous and ever a true friend of all. Those that knew him found him to be ever reliable and honest, and he never had an enemy. He was just the kind of a neighbor and friend needed in the early pioneer days. He and other pioneers layed the foundation in which this generation builded and our thanks are due to such men. As a father he was affectionate and kind. No sacrifice was too great for him, and he always tried to make home a real home. “Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home,” was the sentiment of everone of the family. The needs of the family came first, no matter if he must sacrifice. Even while his strength was failing rapidly the last year, he often showed his appreciation to those who were caring for him. He never complained no matter how great the pain and often encouraged all by his never-failing sense of humor. Although failing for some time, he did not suffer much pain and was bedfast but a few days. He passed out of this life to the great beyond very peacefully in a quiet sleep. He leaves to mourn one son, Henry, one daughter, Sophia, and one sister, Mrs. Sophia Karloff of Davenport, besides many grandchildren, great grandchildren and a host of friends. May God grant him a place in that house not made with hands, prepared for those who love Him. Funeral services were conducted from the home, Monday, Dec. 16, at 1:30, and at 2 at the church. Rev. B. C. Wendtlandt of Mays Prairie officiated. He preached upon Rom. 8; 35-9. The remains were laid to rest in the Mays Prairie cemetery.

Mr. F.J. Brohm and Mr. Ben Harloff, both of Davenport, came to pay their last tribute of respect to their uncle. When they were boys in their teens Mr. Frahm assumed the responsibility of being their father, educating them and giving them a Christian state in life.

Allamakee County Newspaper, Dec. 1918