Hans Simonsen

SIMONSEN, PHILLIPS, STILLMAN, LARSON, ALLEN

Posted By: Diana Diedrich (email)
Date: 10/21/2005 at 15:19:15

HANS SIMONSEN

"Taps" sounded for the last time for Comrade Hans Simonsen Friday, and wearied with the ravages of disease which had been creeping upon him for several years, he gladly responded and closed his eyes in the last, long sleep.

Mr. Simonsen was born near Christiana, Norway, August 9, 1840 and when eleven years of age came with his parents to America settling near Decorah. Here they remained four years and then removed to the farm in Hanover township which place continued his home to his death.

In 1861, Mr. Simonsen responded to his country's call for volunteers, enlisting for three years in Co. H, 9th Iowa Volunteers under Capt. John Phillips and was chosen corporal. At the close of his three years' service, he re-enlisted, serving until the close of the war. His record during those years was a fine one, he being in thirty engagements, and his memory of those times with the comrades who became as brothers to him in the hardships and perils they bore together, ever was a dear one to Mr. Simonsen and he loved to dwell upon it even after affairs of the present became wearisome to him because of the waste of the disease which was sapping his strength. Mr. Simonsen was honorably discharged from the army July 18, 1865. He was one of the most enthusiastic members of John J. Stillman Post, G. A. R., of this city and always was anxious to attend their meetings and so gladly welcomed all old comrades to his home.

January 9, 1869, Mr. Simonsen was married to Patrena Larson who survives him togethr with their four children born to them, Mrs. Wm. Allen of Los Angeles, Calif.; Oscar, near Highlandville, Iowa; Mrs. E. W. Allen, of Waukon; and Alfred at home. He also leaves one brother, Holver of this city.

In early life Mr. Simonsen was confirmed in the Lutheran church but in later life became a member of the C.P. church remaining a true, constant member to his death.

At one time Mr. Simonsen held the office of supervisor for this county with great credit to himself.

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the C.P. church, conducted by Rev. VanNice and attended by a large circle of friends including his comrades of the Post who escorted the remains through town on the way to their last resting place.

The Waukon Standard, Thursday, January 30, 1908 Pg1

Transcribed by Diana Diedrich