Barske, Fred 1854 - 1923

BARSKE, GLESNE, BOETTCHER

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 1/7/2022 at 13:19:58

Elkader Register, Thur., 18 Oct. 1923.

Fred Barske, son of Ernest and Charlotte Barske was born June 3, 1854, at Schwessin, near Koesslin, Germany, and passed away at the home of his niece, Mrs. Anna Glesne, at Elkader, Iowa, on Sunday, October 14, 1923, about 10:00 o'clock in the forenoon, at the age of 69 years, 4 months and 11 days.

When twenty years of age he came to this country, and for over 36 years none of his relatives knew anything of his whereabouts, until about 13 years ago, when he suddenly put in his appearance and surprised his people in Elkader. From casual remarks he made, it was learned that he had been in New York and other states, but nothing definite could ever be found out about the years he had been absent. From that time on he worked in Elkader, Dubuque, Merrill, Wis., and Milwaukee, Wis. At the latter place he was taken sick with a complication of diseases which finally resulted in dropsy. Advised by the doctor that the chances for recovery were very doubtful, and being a stranger in a strange city, he longed to be taken care of by the only relatives he had. So he again came to Elkader about 4 weeks ago. Being a very sick man he was cared for at the Glesne home by his only sister, Mrs. Wilhelmine Boettcher and her daughter, Mrs. Anna Glesne. Besides these relatives, who endeavored to make his last days as comfortable as possible, he leaves one brother, Richard of Elkader. Three brothers, Ferdinand, Reinhard and William preceded him in death.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, 2:00 at the house, where the choir sang several selections. Rev. Franke conducting the funeral services with interment in the East Side cemetery.