John W. Bell 1827-1886

BELL, HOFFMAN

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 11/27/2018 at 13:36:04

11 March 1886 - The Local Record

John W. Bell died at his home in West Branch, Iowa, March 4th, 1886 after an illness of five days. His disease was pleural Pneumonia.

Deceased was born in Somerset co. Pa., Dec. 5th 1827. Married to Elizabeth Hoffman, March 21st 1850. Joined the Lutheran church in Pa. in 1851. came to cedar county Iowa, April 25th, 1857, and settled on a farm in Gower township. In 1858 he united with the M.E. church, and ten years later, he joined the United Brethren as a matter of convenience, a society of that church being in the neighborhood. Methodist preaching being at Oasis, nearly five miles distant. Bringing his letter from the U.B. church, after coming to West Branch he united with the M.E. church, in 1881, where he remained until his death. Serving acceptably as Trustee and Recording Steward until his death. During his last illness he was rational at times, and delirious at other times But during his rational moments, when his mind was clear, he expressed a strong confidence and unwavering trust in God, and in reference to the future declared that all was well. He leaves a widow and three sons and three daughters to mourn.