Moats, Abe Lincoln 1865 - 1937

MOATS, WHITE, BELDEN, LEUER, KERR, GORDON

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 5/29/2023 at 19:51:04

Clayton Center Register, 12 May 1937.

VOLGA CITY: Abe Lincoln Moats, son of David and Lydia Ann Moats, was born on a farm in Highland Twp., Clayton County, Ia., on March 19, 1865.

His illness dates back over a period of almost three years and during this time all that medical aid or loving hands could do for him, both in the home of his sister in Waterloo and his own home, were of no avail and death released his suffering, when in the early morning of May 06, 1937, he passed away having attained the age of 72 years, one month and 17 days.

He grew to manhood on a farm in Highland township and received his education in the rural schools in that vicinity. On Dec. 04, 1890, he was united in marriage to Miss Ena White of Volga. This was an extremely happy union but his wife was called to her reward on Feb. 09, 1919.

One daughter, Mrs. Edna Belden, also preceded him in death, when just a little more than three months ago on Jan. 20, 1937, she went to the home not made by human hands to await the coming of her dear ones.

The other children surviving are: Homer of Glenn's Ferry, Idaho; Glen of Volga, Fred of Fairbanks, Lyle of Strawberry Point, and Mrs. Helen Leuer also of Volga, who was at home caring for her father.

He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Ella Kerr of Waterloo, and Mrs. Hattie Gordon of Dubuque, four grandchildren besides many nieces, nephews and friends who deeply mourn his death.

After his marriage, they resided in Volga for a short while, then moved to a farm nearby and the rest of his life was spent farming near this place. During this time he served as township assessor of Sperry township for fifteen years and also a township trustee, secretary of the Volga Creamery for many years and acted as a member of the school board for a long period of time. In all these positions he took a keen interest and faithfully discharged all duties assigned to him.

After the death of his wife, the love of his children blossomed even stronger than before and their interests and needs were even upper most in his mind. He greatly enjoyed having them all come home and his passing has broken home ties which can never be replaced on earth. This loss is deeply felt by his children.

He was held in highest esteem by all his friends and neighbors as he was ready to help them at any time and in any way and in his lifelong residence of this community he was pointed out as a model of honesty in all his dealings and his circle of acquaintances are counted in scores for to know him was to be forever his friend.

His last mile of life's journey has been run but his memory will long be cherished and held as a shining example for all.

Funeral services were held Sat. afternoon at the Methodist church. The pastor, Rev. E. J. Starr officiated and at Hill Crest cemetery where burial was made.

The casket bearers were Frank Phillips, H. W. White L. J. Tenny, George Oldfather, James Jellings and Ted Everetts.