Connelly, John Michael 1841 - 1918

CONNELLY, CONNELLEY, MCGUIRE

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 11/13/2021 at 13:33:33

Elkader Register & Argus, Thur., 02 May 1918.

Funeral of John M. Connelly at St. Joseph's Saturday.

Thursday evening, John Michael Connelly, one of Iowa's early pioneers passed away at his home in Cox Creek township at the age of 76 years, 5 months and two days.

Last June he had the misfortune of a fall that resulted in serious injuries from which he never fully recovered. His last illness of several weeks duration was plural pneumonia.

Mr. Connelley was born in Boston, Mass., Nov. 23, 1841, and was the only child of Martin and Anne Connelley. When but six months old his parents went to Ireland, returning in 1844 to his native Boston. In 1855 they moved to Milwaukee, Wis., and in 1856 to Cox Creek township where he has made his home 62 years.

Though only a boy of 15 when he came to Cox Creek, he had a grammar school education, having attended the Endicott & Elliot grammar school of Boston and completing a business course in the business academy of Milwaukee.

Since coming to Iowa he has lived continuously on the same farm, teaching school through the winter months for several years. His ability as a public servant was promptly recognized, from the fact that he was re-elected to the office of township assessor several consecutive terms.

On Jan. 10, 1869, he was united in marriage to Mary Catherine McGuire at Clermont, Iowa. He is survived by his two children, Patrick and Annie at home. His wife and infant daughter Mary having preceded him in death in 1874.

Left with the care of two small children, Mr. Connelley met life's troubles, and through the darkest hours guarded well and carefully tthe little ones whom God had intrusted to his care.

He spent many happy days among the early settlers who loved and respected him as a general friend, a congenial companion, a generous and accomodating neighbor.

The funeral was held last Saturday from St. Joseph's Catholic church was largely attended by neighbors and friends who deeply mourn his departure.

The Requiem High Mass was celebrated by Rev. Father Casey, his pastor and faithful attendant during his long illness.

"You Promised Never to Leave Me," by St. Joseph's Choir, and "The Desire of Heaven" by Mrs. Dean Prouty were fittingly rendered.

The pallbearers were John Alderson, Mike O'Brien, Herman Dittmer, John Riley, Patrick Downey and Dan Gleason. Burial in St. Joseph's cemetery beside his parents, wife and daughter.

A Card of Thanks was signed by Patrick and Annie Connelley.

(Note: The spelling of his surname was shown both ways as shown.)