John KEW

KEW, SMITH, DILLINGHAM, CAMPBELL, JOHNSON, MOOREHEAD, DARRINGTON, YOUNG, CASTERTON

Posted By: Sharon R Becker (email)
Date: 4/2/2011 at 05:48:57

The Globe Gazette
Mason City, Cerro Gordo County, Iowa
February, 1910

JOHN KEW PASSES AWAY.

John KEW was born in Thisleton, England, July 23, 1839, and died at Rockwell, Iowa, Feb. 28, 1910, of softening of the brain.

With his parents [William and Jane (SMITH) KEW] he arrived in America, May 5th, 1855, and settled at Cherry Valley, Ill. In 1863 he made his first trip to Iowa and purchased a portion of the land that now comprises the old homestead, and a couple of years later took up premanent residence here.

John KEW and Margaret L. DILLINGHAM were united in marriage January 1, 1868, and to them four children were born, William, Lelia, wife of A. C. CAMPBELL, Edward, and Caroline, the latter dying when about two years of age. March 19, 1898, the wife and mother passed to the Great Beyond.

About two years later the subject of this sketch was united in marriage with Mrs. Eliza JOHNSON who today mourns the loss of a beloved companion and protector.

Four sisters, Mrs. Ann MOOREHEAD of Rockwell, Mrs. Fanny DARRINGTON of Hesper, Mrs. James YOUNG of Canton, Minn., Mrs. Mary CASTERTON of Decorah, and one brother, George KEW of this place, yet remain of the original family to mourn the departed.

For nearly a half-century "Jack" KEW has been identified with the development of this community, and success in a material way has crowned his efforts. He has stood as an example and an exponent of agricultural thrift and business integrity. For years he has been identified with the church militant, and has stood for those things that make community life agreeable and to be desired.

In the passing of this pioneer citizen another of the fast receding landmarks of the '60s fades away. With earth's last, long farewell is coupled a well-founded belief that beyond the turbulent Jordan there comes the vision of the sweet fields of Eden and the Master's plaudit, "Well done" and Enter thou in".

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, March of 2011