HOGAN, Philip James (1890–1919)

HOGAN, CAHALAN

Posted By: Marilyn O' Connor (email)
Date: 2/25/2005 at 14:55:00

OBITUARY

Like a peal of thunder from a clear sky came the news last Wednesday morning, that Philip Hogan of Dougherty was dead in France. Philip is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hogan of Dougherty and was born April 3rd 1890, at the farm home, where he spent all of his young life until last July, when he saw that the country was in danger, and young men were being called upon to go to France and fight for their country’s cause.

Philip then realizing and obeying the patriotic spirit of a true young man, sacrificed the pleasures of a fond home always first and last in Philip’s mind joined the Cerro Gordo county contingent of 450 which on July 26th were sent to Camp Gordon, where he took his first training in military tactics. Then after six weeks of camp life bade adieu to the U.S. and embarked for France, where he was assigned to a medical unit, and in this capacity faithfully and uncomplainingly performed every duty assigned, until last February when he was taken ill and removed to Base Hospital No. 54, at Metz, France. Here he stayed, yet always writing encouraging letters to his dear parents, til his sweet young life ebbed away.

The news of Philip’s untimely death which was sacrificed for honor, peace and love of county, brought tears to many eyes and gloom to the entire community, for “Phil” as he was familiarly called, was a general favorite with young and old alike. His sunny disposition, always added cheer to every gathering made greater by his presence. Phil’s strong traits of character were molded in a home where the very atmosphere was an inspiration to develop the highest ideals of a true, religious temperate, and highly respected citizen, whose prospects for a future life were most promising.

Memorial mass for Philip will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s church at Dougherty on Tuesday morning May 27th conducted by Father O’Hagen and assisted by ten or twelve of the neighboring priests.

Though his body lies in France, his memory will always remain fresh in the minds of this community and the life which he led will have its influence for higher aspirations on the lives of those whose pleasure it was to make his acquaintance. The deceased leaves to mourn his loss, besides the numerous friends and relatives a kind father and mother, two brothers and two sisters, Mrs. Jim Cahalan of Dougherty, William of Tennant, Iowa and John and Katheryn who reside at home. To the grief-stricken family we offer words of sympathy and trust, and hope that one day will come when the union between parents, brothers and sisters will be happier than pen can write or tongue can tell.