Theodor Kerper, 1898 Obituary

KERPER, WURZER

Posted By: David Reineke (email)
Date: 11/13/2005 at 13:20:12

I translated the following obituary from Der Carroll Demokrat, a German-language newspaper published in Carroll, Iowa, between about 1874 and 1920. It was originally published on Friday, 28 January 1898. Any information in brackets or notes at the end are my own explanations. It reads as follows:

[Theodor Kerper]

After suffering for several months from a heart ailment, which was also complicated by pneumonia, Theodor Kerper passed away in Willey Saturday morning at 10:00, surrounded by his children and grandchildren. The deceased, who had received Last Rights from his pastor, was born on 16 June 1828 in Sülem, County of Bitburg, Province of Rhine Prussia [also called Rhenish Prussia]. In 1869, he emigrated from the old fatherland to America and settled in Fayette County, Iowa, where he remained for 10 years. Thereafter, he moved to Pleasant Valley Township in this county and was one of the first founders of the town of Willey in that township. For many years he conducted a general merchandise business and was assigned the office of postmaster by the government. When the infirmities of old age became noticeable, he retired completely from business. On 6 March 1897, he suffered a severe loss by having his dear life’s companion taken from his side by death. On that day he felt as if a part of himself had been taken and that the other part also would soon be called away. And when, just two days before his death, his caring children tried to inspire him with courage for a good recovery, he announced his satisfaction to soon pass away and be united again with his dear spouse in a better hereafter. He died quietly, devoted to God. The death of the deceased is mourned by two sons, Johann and Jakob Kerper, who both live in and near Willey, and one daughter, Mrs. Gertrud Wurzer, as well as several grandchildren. The funeral took place Tuesday morning at 9:00. The Rev. Father Gehling celebrated a solemn funeral service and on the occasion gave a moving sermon. Thereafter, the earthly remains were laid to their final rest amid an innumerable crowd of mourners.