TRASK, Selah 1809-1899

TRASK, EATON

Posted By: Kathy Taylor (email)
Date: 7/11/2004 at 08:18:13

SELAH B. TRASK

Died -- At the home of his son Mr. John TRASK, S.B. TRASK, Monday April 24, 1899 in Deerfield at the advanced age of 89 years, 6 months and 9 days.

S.B. TRASK was born in Deerfield, Franklin Co, Mass., on Oct 15th 1809; was married to Rebecca H. EATON Feb. 21st 1833; from that time till 1855 he lived during different periods in the states of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New York. In the year 1855 he emigrated in company with several others to the then far west Iowa. He entered a piece of land in Deerfield Township and thereon built him a home wherein he has continued to reside all these long 44 years.

His wife Rebecca H. TRASK died March 22nd, 1897, preceding him 2 years. For 64 years they traveled the journey of life hand in hand through the vicissitudes of pioneer life rearing their little family and later enjoying the fruits of goodly competence won by their united efforts.

The last few years they have drifted peacefully side by side down the river lovingly cared for by their son John and his family. The mother entered the harbor first, but Uncle Selah TRASK told the writer but last summer that he would soon join the loved ones on the other shore, as he felt his strength giving way day by day.

He was the father of seven children, five sons and two daughters, of whom two sons and one daughter precede him and with the mother were waiting with outstretched arms to welcome the "ancient mariner" as his barque touched the golden shore.

Three sons & one daughter survive him, Albert, Henry, and Emily reside in Michigan while the son John with whom he lived at the time of his death is one of Chickasaw County's most honored citizens. Mr. Trask has been a life long democrat and it is stated that at one time he cast the only democratic vote in Deerfield Township. For years his party was in the minority but he lived to see the day and rejoice over it that his vote in Deerfield Township was with the majority.

It was a comfort to his friends that his last days were painless, he suffered from no bodily disease just slowly sank to his long rest with the satisfaction that his work was done and was ready for his reward. He was noted for his activity and walked to Bassett a distance of 3 miles when he was 87 years old. The funeral was held Monday, Dec. 7th, from the Congregational Church in Ionia, services conducted by the pastor and the interment was beside her husband in Riverside Cemetery at Chickasaw.

Uncle Selah was a sincere believer in the Universalist father, but as no universalist minister was available, Rev. Everhardt was asked to officiate which he did ably and presented many a thought to ponder over. His remains were laid beside his wife in the Beckwith Cemetery.

Newspaper: New Hampton Tribune
Date: May 2, 1899