Fox, John

FOX, LAUGHLIN

Posted By: Volunteer Subscribers
Date: 2/18/2003 at 09:35:25

1911 Biographical Index to Wolfe's History of Clinton County Iowa, by P. B. Wolfe., pg 1021
JOHN FOX

The name of John F. Fox is well remembered in railroad circles in eastern Iowa, and, in fact, by a wide circle of loyal friends and acquaintances, for he was for many years considered one of the best men in his of work in this country and his genial personality, coupled with his straightforward business policy and his hospitable manner, made him admired and respected by all who came into contact with him. He will not soon be forgotten here, his death, occurring as it did while he was in the full zenith of his powers, being sincerely regretted by the community long honored by his residence.

Mr. Fox was born in Clinton county, Iowa, March 4, 1854, of an excellent old pioneer family. he received a good education in the public schools of his native vicinity. He was the son of John and Mary Fox, both natives of Missouri and now both deceased. The son, John F. Fox, began life as a farmer, which he continued until he was twenty-one years of age in Hampshire township, this county, but not caring to follow the life of the husbandman, he came to Lyons and began working in a saw mill, later securing employment on the Northwestern railroad. After filling a minor position, his abilities were readily recognized by the officials and he was appointed foreman of the bridge and piling work, his first boss being W. D. Waldron. Having performed his work in a manner that gave the utmost satisfaction in every detail, he was made superintendent of the western division under W. C. Halsey, the duties of which important and responsible trust he continued to perform in a manner that reflected the utmost credit upon himself and to the entire satisfaction of the company, until his death in a wreck, November 4, 1903, in Washington county, Iowa. His success was due from the fact that he was a man quick of perception, being able to readily grasp a situation, and also because he believed in doing well what was worth doing at all. He was liked by his men and knew well how to manage all types of crews so as to obtain the best results.

Mr. Fox was married on July 18, 1878, to Sarah Laughlin, a lady of refinement and pleasing address, a native of the state of Wisconsin and the daughter of Michael and Bridget Laughlin, a highly respected and influential family who came to America from Ireland. Mrs. Laughlin was educated in Lady Dugel Seminary at Lyons, Iowa. Mr. Fox was a man of exemplary character in every respect and a worthy and conscientious member of the Catholic church, of which Mrs. Fox is also a faithful member.