Groth, Guri 'Julia' (Tollefson) 1838-1936

GROTH, TOLLEFSON

Posted By: S. Ferrall - IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 2/20/2012 at 20:55:37

Mrs. John Groth, pioneer member of this community died at her home 3 miles east of Elgin, on Tuesday evening, Feb. 14*, at the advanced age of ninety-seven years, one month and twenty-five days. Mrs. Groth had been quite poorly for several years, owing to the feebleness of old age, and thus it was without any great suffering she came to her last illness. Satisfied and happy in the memories of bye-gone years, she was spared many sorrows and troubles that would have been the lot of one more in touch with the present.

Mrs. John Groth, nee Guri Tollefson, was born in Nummedal, Norway, December 16, 1838. As a girl of 13, she came to this country, coming to Clayton county, Iowa, and here in this community she has lived her life since 1851. In the Clermont Lutheran congregation she was a member of the first confirmation class, and has been a loyal member since that time.

On Jan. 10, 1862, she was united in marriage to John Groth, and settled on the farm that has, with the exception of six years she lived in Clermont, been her home ever since. To them were born eleven children, of whom six have preceded her in death. Since the death of her husband she has lived with her children and they have with loving care done all that could be done for her comfort. Mr. Groth passed away on Jan. 25, 1917. There lives to mourn her death the five children, Louie J. Groth of Seattle, Wash., Halsten, Martin, Sarah and Sophie, all of this community, also seven grandchildren and a large number of relatives and friends who will long cherish the memory of this God fearing and ever helpful friend.

The funeral services were held from the old home, now occupied by the son, Martin Groth, with interment in the Houg cemetery. Owing to the impassable roads, the remains were not taken to the Clermont church, but the services were held at the home. The pastor, Rev. G. Gunsten officiated. Blessed be her memory.

~Clermont Enterprise, Thursday, February 27, 1936
~Note: February 14th, 1936 was a Friday, not a Tuesday. A brief mention of her death appeared in the Elgin Echo, Feb 13th referring to the previous Tuesday, Feb 11th as date of death.