Richards, Fred S. 1868 - 1937

RICHARDS, BICKEL, FARMER, GRUVER

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 5/20/2023 at 11:24:29

Clayton County Register, 24 Feb. 1937.

MCGREGOR: Fred S. Richards, prominent McGregor banker, died in Rochester, Minn., Wednesday, Feb. 17th, where he had gone a few days before for examination and treatment. His death was caused by pneumonia which he contracted while there. His death came as a shock to his friends as very few knew he had gone to Rochester. Death came after only two days illness. Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the home in McGregor, conducted by Rev. J. F. Parsons, pastor of the Congregational church. Burial was made in Pleasant Grove cemetery.

Fred S. Richards was born in McGregor Aug. 27, 1868, and had lived here all but one year of his life. On Dec. 25, 1889, he was married to Miss Ella Bickel, and to them three sons and three daughters were born.

For many years Mr. Richards was cashier of the First National Bank, and after the reorganization of the banks four years ago, he was made president of the new bank, the First State Savings Bank. For many years he has been treasurer of the Congregational church, the McGregor School board, and city treasurer. He was also well known in state banking circles and had served as treasurer of the State Bankers association. He was very active in republican politics and in the Masonic lodge, belonging to all three orders of Masonry at McGregor.

Mr. Richards is survived by his widow, three daughters, Mrs. Martha Farmer of Rigby, Idaho, Mrs. Katherine Gruver of McGregor, and Winifred of Idaho Falls, Idaho; and two sons, D. F. Richards of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Neill Richards of Evanston, Ill. One son, Rex, died about two years ago.