Gifford, Owen E. 1894 - 1910

GIFFORD

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 3/26/2020 at 18:16:18

A pall of sadness crept over the town of Strawberry Point on Monday morning when it was learned that Owen Gifford, who had been so seriously ill for the past several weeks, had peacefully passed away at 7:30 that morning. No death has ever affected the residents of this city such as this one. An expression of sadness was upon every face - every heart was heavy, and nothing but words of sympathy and regret could be heard upon the lips of all.

Owen E. Gifford was born July 30th, 1894. He lived on a farm with his parents until August 28, 1903, when after the death of his father he, with mother, came to town, Where he has since made his home. Some four weeks ago he was taken with an acute attack of nephritis, which ended in his death May 9th, 1910, having lived 15 years, 10 months and 9 days. He leaves a mother, one brother, numerous relatives and a host of friends.

Owen was possessed of those amiable traits of character which drew to him many friends. He was possessed of a nature which was affectionate, and which went out to those who were dear to him in loving confidence and fellowship. He was never ashamed to be polite, and his bearing towards his associates, whether old or young, was gentlemanly and kind. He seemed to have a mental grasp of the little civilities of every-day life, and was willing at all times to observe them in his associations. Possessing these manly qualities, he drew to him the affectionate regard of his friends. A light has gone out, which leaves pleasant memories behind it so that all is not dark where once it shown. His manly deportment and gentlemanly bearing will long be remembered by those with whom he associated in life.

Great profusions of flowers decorated his casket, which came from the many friends he had made during his short life. His body was laid to rest in the Strawberry Point cemetery.

The pallbearers were Howard Ives, Howard Lathrop, Clair Hesner, Joe Gill, Wayne Preston and Cyphus Malone, all being blosom friends of Owen.