McKinnis, Catherine (Sousley) 1843 - 1920

MCKINNIS, SOUSLEY, WHIPPLE, SCOVEL

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 8/18/2022 at 10:04:00

Elkader Register, Thur., 05 Feb. 1920.

Catherine Sousley was born in the State of Indiana on March 14th, 1843. With her parents she came to Strawberry Point, Iowa, when she was a little girl. Here she grew to womanhood. On Jan. 12, 1864, she was united in marriage with John McKinnis, the wedding taking place in Elkader, Iowa. The home was made in Clayton County, Iowa, and, with the exception of a few years spent in Nebraska, it remained in that county to the end. Two children were born to them, Jennie, now Mrs. D. Whipple, and Jessie, now Mrs. Walter Scovel. Mr. McKinnis died six years ago and since that time Mrs. Whipple and her family have made their home with Mrs. McKinnis. The other daughter, Mrs. Scovel, resided near so that they were able to give all the care that their love dictated to their mother in her declining years. She passed away at her home on January 28, 1920, at the age of 73 years, 10 months and 14 days. She leaves to mourn for her, her two daughters, and six grandchildren. One brother and one sister also survive her beside a multitude of more distant relatives and friends. Mrs. McKinnis was a good neighbor and friend. She was a good mother. Her home was established in the hill country of Clayton County in an early day, which meant hard work and much privation, but she was patient and did the best she could to rear her family and send them out into the world to fill honorable places in society. She is remembered for her kindness and faithfulness.

The funeral service was held at the home on Friday, January 30th, conducted by Rev. S. C. Bretnall, of Edgewood, Iowa, and the remains were laid away in the family lot in the cemetery at Mederville, Iowa.