Niemann, Gerhard Henry William 1848 - 1932

NIEMANN, ENGEL, SCHUTTE, HARNISCH, SIEGELE, BACKES, BRANDT

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 9/17/2018 at 10:02:54

Clayton County Register, Thur., 25 Feb. 1932.

This community was deeply moved when it received the sad news of the death of Mr. Gerhard Henry William Niemann, which occurred Sunday, Feb. 21, at 6:40 p.m. at the family residence on Depot street at Guttenberg. All members of his family were at his bedside when the end came peaceably at the ripe old age of 83 years, three months, and five days. He was ill only one and a half days, due to a stroke paralyzing his left side, from which he never gained consciousness.

Mr. Niemann was born in Hanover, Germany, Nov. 16, 1848, as the son of Herman and Maria (Engel) Niemann. When three years old he came with his parents to America and settled what later became his country estate. He grew up as a very strong man of character and ability, being always persistant in the efforts of life that finally led him to success. His was not a commercial but a rugged and hardy life, active to the end.

His early education he received from his mother. Later he attended Dr. Paul Stockfeld's school and church at Ceres. Mr. Niemann was also instrumental in the building of the "Pioneer Rock" church at Ceres in that he hauled ____ with oxen as a young man.

He later laid the foundation for the broad and practical education which he was to gain under that wise headmaster - experience.

Taking a loyal interest in all things pertaining to the community welfare, Mr. Niemann served 13 years as township trustee and served several years on the school board. Thirty-eight years he served as secretary of Ceres church and for a number of years he was also director of the Guttenberg State Bank.

He was of a very kind disposition, always ready to do and give, a loving husband and father. He was a life-long member of the Lutheran church. In 1920 he and his family moved from his country estate into Guttenberg, where he lived till his death.

January 19, 1883, he was united in marriage at Garnavillo by Rev. Somerdet to Miss Augusta Schutte, who with six children survives him, namely; Mary Harnisch, Charles City; Wm. Niemann, Clarksville; Alma Siegele, McGregor; L. H. Niemann, Guttenberg; Edward H., Minneapolis, Minn.; Alvina Backes, St. Olaf; and eleven grandchildren; also one sister, Mrs. Mary Brandt of Garnavillo, and many other relatives and friends who will miss him.

The funeral was held from the home to St John's church Wednesday at 2 p.m., Feb. 24th. Rev. G. Bunge, a life-long friend of the family, officiated. Interment was at Ceres.