Ralph Cowgill 1880-1934

COWGILL, HAYES, STUART, BROWN

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 1/18/2017 at 15:20:01

27 December 1934 - The West Branch Times

Ralph Frederick Cowgill was born near West Branch, Iowa, on July 26, 1880, and died at his home in West Branch December 24, 1934, being 54 years, 4 months and 28 days old. He was the son of Henry and Cornelia Cowgill, and the second of six children. One sister, Bertha, died at the age of 14 years. The others are Mrs. Fred Hayes of San Mateo, Florida, Mrs. Charles Stuart who lives near Oasis, and Lee and Clifton Cowgill of this place.

He attended the public schools of West Branch, graduating from the High School in 1901. The following year he enrolled in the Agricultural College at Ames, Iowa, but the illness of his father made it necessary for him to return home to take charge of the farm.

On January 7, 1914, he was married to Blanche Brown of West Branch. They lived on the farm until the fall of 1921 when they moved into town. He had been in failing health since 1929. Although his suffering has been at times intense, he was never heard to complain, but endured it all with great fortitude.

Besides his devoted wife he leaves also two nephews, four nieces, two greatnephews and one great niece and very many friends.

He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and also of the Modern Woodmen Lodge. In his early life he affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church.

Mr. Cowgill was by nature quiet and reserved, not seeking place or honors for himself. But he was one of the faithful, dependable workers of the community, honored and respected for his integrity and neighborly goodwill to all.

Funeral services were held from the Friends church at 2:00 o'clock on Wednesday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. L. W. Reynolds.