Chris Wenck

WENCK, RABE, WASMUND, ONKEN, HEUTON

Posted By: Cynthia (email)
Date: 5/10/2011 at 02:26:52

Chris. Wenck, Sheridan Township Settler Passes Away.
DIED IN MINNESOTA
Survived by 6 Children, 22 Grandchldren, and 9 Great Grandchildren.
Chris. Wenck, one of the pioneers of Sheridan township, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Henry Wasmund at Worthington, Minnesota, on the 21st ult. and was buried in the Carroll cemetery Saturday, the 25th ult., funeral services at the M.E. church being conducted by the pastor, Rev. Homer Baumgardner.
The deceased was a native of Germany, where he was born in 1838. About 50 years ago he was married to Miss Maria Rabe who died in 1913. To them were born 6 children who survive him: Mrs. Henry Heuton of Grant township, Mrs. August Onken of Sheridan township and Mrs. Henry Wasmund of Worthington, Minnesota. The sons being John, Henry and Fred, well known farmers of this county. He is survived also by 22 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
Mr. and Mrs. Wenck came to Carroll county in the early day and were among the first settlers of Sheridan township. By frugality and industry attained a competency and became part of the prosperous and respected citizens of that noted community. In after years they move to Carroll where they occupied a fine home and enjoyed their children and grand-children and has the esteem of their friends and neighbors.
Mr. Wenck was one of the early subscribers to the Carroll Herald which has been a constant visitor to his home and to that of nearly every one of his children. He used to tell in an interesting way how when he came to this county facilities for obtaining newspapers were not as easy as in the later years. He was not able to read English when he first subscribed to the Herald, but each week he was able to read more than the preceding week and in time he became able to tell what was going on. E.R. Hastings, then editor of the Herald, took an interest in Mr. Wenck's efforts to acquire the language and helped him in his study of English. In time he was able to read the Herald, then he subscribed for other English newspapers which e read with avidity. At one time, about 40 years ago, when prohibition was first exploited and the Republican party was held responsible for its enactment, Chris. Wenck was the only subscriber in his neighborhood. left on its list. However, they returned as time passed and issues changed. He used to explain that he had always voted the Republican national ticket, but on account of prohibition was a Democrat in state politics. He was an honest man and tried to carry out the principles of the golden rule according to his light. He died in the ripeness of years, but his example as an honest man and good citizen is a heritage to his children and friends.
The Carroll Herald - Mar. 1, 1922