Susie, William John 1875-1919

SUSIE

Posted By: S. Ferrall - IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 4/3/2015 at 19:31:17

It does seem as though Volga City was receiving more than her share of afflictions, and it is all so sad.

W.J. Susie departed this life Wednesday Feb. 12, leaving a sorrowful home behind, as he was the comfort of his mother in her declining years.

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William John Susie was born near Strawberry Point on the 13th of August, 1875. when he was seven years old his parents moved to Volga where William has remained ever since.

Here he attended public school and lived among our people whose respect he easily held thru his industry and moral character. He was one of those men who have the perfect confidence and good will of all who know them. He also made a large place for himself in the community thru his ready helpfulness, whenever he found any need for his services.

Aside from that, to really know him, it was necessary to go into his home living as he did, with his mother and other members of the family - he was all in one; the son, brother, provider, adviser and comforter.

Toward his mother he was always the son. He never lost sight of this relation toward his mother. He understood how to consult her in all things, and at the same time relieve her of the burden of household cares. He understood the art of brotherhood toward his sisters. He knew how to sympathize, encourage and advise.

Somehow it was this attitude that established a home which we could not think of being disturbed as it has been through his departure. Nevertheless we know that because of the goodness of God nothing of the lovingness has been taken out and much of peace and glory has been brought in.

With regard to the church relations of William Susie, many have made the remark, "We will miss him! It will be hard to fill his place." We can hardly think of him except in connection with the church. The records show that he united with the M.E. church on probation, Jan. 24, 1895, and was received into full connection Aug. 25, 1895, when L.S. Cooley was pastor. He became an officer in the church when he was president of the Epworth League, served as District Steward in 1906. He has also been Sunday School Superintendent, Assistant Sunday School Superintendent, and a Trustee.

William had just reached the period, spoken of, as middle life. The career that was before him, would evidently have endeared him to those who are concerned in the high work of God. It was there where he would have found life's opportunity, but he has gone away, we have said goodbye, but we believe in a future home and afuture life, there we shall meet each other and will abide eternally.

When the influenza developed in our village, William was one of the first to be taken sick. We hoped it would soon pass over; but in his case pneumonia set in, and after a battle of several days for his life, the disease overpowered him.

He passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 1919. His mother, one brother and three sisters survive him.

~Elkader Register, Thursday, February 20, 1919 (Volga City column)

Note: burial is in Hillcrest cemetery