Partch, James Thompson 1817 - 1899

PARTCH, BARNUM

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 12/23/2020 at 14:02:04

Elkader Register, Thur., 23 Mar. 1899.

Again we are called upon to chronicle the departure of an old and respected citizen. James Thompson Partch, after a short sickness, almost without a struggle, quietly passed away Tuesday, March 21st, at 4:30 p.m. His demise was not entirely unexpected, because of his failing health and age, yet he had not been confined to his bed but about one week.

He was born in the town of Hinsburg, Vt., March 8th, 1817, and had reached the age of 82 years and 13 days. On August 23d, 1839, at Conneaut, Crawford county, Pa., he was united in marriage with Lucy Barnum. In 1848 they came to Iowa settling on a farm in Farmersburg twp., adjoining the Jo. Moine place. Here they resided until 1856 when they came to Elkader, where they have since resided.

They both assisted with organization of the Boardman Grove Universalist church which was organized here in 1855 and have departed in the faith. Mrs. Partch, or rather Aunt Lucy, as she was known to old and young, passed away Jan, 5th 1896. Since the death of his wife Uncle James Partch has aged fast, missing keenly the companion and prop of nearly fifty-seven years. No children were born to them but they have reared and made a home for several of their kindred.

The most of the time since residing here Mr. Partch has been engaged in farming, having had land west and south of town until recently. He has always been a quiet citizen of a kindly disposition, honored and respected by a large circle of friends. He has finished the race and fought the good fight and now has gone to be united with that vast concourse of friends in the better land.

He leaves no relatives nearer than nephews and nieces, several of these being present at the last sad rites.

The funeral was held this afternoon at the Universalist church attended by the Masonic fraternity and a number of sorrowing friends and neighbors. Rev. Mr. Crum delivered the sermon taking his text from Prov. 4:18 "but the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day." At the grave Worshipful Master A. C. Hagensick conducted the impressive burial service of the Masons, there being over forty of the members of the order present several of the brethern from Farmersburg being in attendance.

The honorary pall bearers were: Hon. J. G. Crosby, M. Bachtell, H. Luers, J. B. Schmidt, Isaac Havens and J. E. Branch, the active bearers being: Will Becker, Carl Ihm, Henry Oelke, Jr., David Parker, F. G. Leibrock and A. F. Kramer.

The floral tributes were numerous and handsome, that contributed by Elkader Lodge No. 72, the square and compass, deserving especial mention.