Kregel, Olivia M. 1885-1896

KREGEL

Posted By: Audrey Haught, volunteer
Date: 7/5/2015 at 21:17:23

It is with sorrow that we chronicle the death of Olivia Margareth Elizabeth, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Kregel, which sad event occurred Saturday evening, Nov. 7, 1896.

From time to time we have prepared obituaries and death notices for respected citizens and loved ones who dwelled in our little community, and it has been with a pang regret for each one gone. Many of these are pioneers, and others had yet a life to live, and a beautiful world before them, unconquered and unknown.

Olivia was born Oct. 5, 1885, being therefore only 11 years of age. She was a bright child, always pleasant and cheerful, and was a great favorite among her playmates. A few days before her death she had been planning a party for one of her little friends, and this little act is characteristic of her nature. She was the idol of her parents, and they were beginning to see in her a realization of the beautiful womanhood which the future promised. Her death is an awful blow to them, and they can scarcely realize that the little girl who so recently was full of life and energy, has now been taken away. The plan of the Creator is hard to understand at times, and an unswerving faith is required to see that what God does is done for the best.

Wednesday, Nov. 4, Olivia fainted while engaged at her studies in school. She became quite ill directly afterwards, and rapidly became worse. All that medical skill could do, was done for her, but despite this she died Saturday evening, shortly past 8 o’clock.

Rev. Sommerlad delivered an impressive eulogy at St. Paul’s church Wednesday, and a quartette of local talent rendered several beautiful selections. School was dismissed for the afternoon, and the schoolmates whom she loved, and who all loved her, presented their last token, bunches of beautiful flowers.

We wish we could comfort Mr. and Mrs. Kregel in their great affliction, but we know that the wound is of such a nature that time only can heal it. The heartiest sympathies of our whole community is extended to them, however, and the hope expressed that in their remaining child, they may find a son who will be a comfort and a stay to them, and that the memory of their sainted daughter may serve to establish for them a claim upon the Heavenly Father.

“Sad night for us, but better day for her!

Well may’st thou morn, but mourn not without

Home;

Thou art not one, I know, that can believe;

A pausing pulse, an intermitted breath,

Or aught that can to mortal flesh befall,

Can turn to nothing any ray of God,

Or frustrate one good purpose of our Lord.

She was a purpose of her great Creator,

Begun on earth, and well on earth pursued,

Now in the heaven of heavens consummate,

Or only waiting the predestined day,

The flower and glory of her consummation.
- A Friend.

Card of Thanks

To the many kind friends and neighbors whose assistance, and sympathy eased the burden of sorrow; to the choir whose sweet strains brought comfort to our sorrowing souls; to the pupils and teachers of the Garnavillo Schools, and of the Sabbath School for the many beautiful floral offers; to all who attended the obsequies of our beloved daughter, we express our profound thanks.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Kregel

Garnavillo Sentinel: November 12, 1896