Stearns, Willis L. Dr. 1871 - 1932

STEARNS, PRESTON, COLEHOUR

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 10/15/2018 at 09:20:44

Clayton County Register, Thur., 15 Sept. 1932.

The body of Dr. Willis L. Stearns was brought here from Mason City last Sunday for burial in the East Side cemetery, where the Rev. C. T. Brewster of this place officiated.

Dr. Stearns was born at Strawberry Point, Aug. 11, 1871, and had reached the age of 61 years, 37 of which he had spent as a Mason City physician. He died at his home at 307 North Adams, Mason City, after a three weeks confinement to his bed, though he had been in ill health for a longer period.

After leaving Iowa, Dr. Stearns lived for some time in Owatonna and Waseca, Minn. On June 30, 1896, he was united in marriage with May Preston of this place. She preceded him in death 13 years ago. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. W. L. Stearns of Mason City, three sons, Franklin, age seven, David age five and Dr. Dana P. Stearns of Richmond, Virginia; also his niece, Doris Colehour

Dr. Stearns' preparatory work was taken in the University of Minnesota, while his medical education was received in Rush Medical college, Chicago. He was the first physician to have an X-Ray machine in Mason City and also drove the first car owned by a Mason City physician.

Funeral services were held at 9:00 a.m., last Sunday in Mason City with the Rev. William Dibole, pastor of the Congregational church in charge. The body was then brought here for burial.