LASS, Peter

LASS, COOPER

Posted By: Brian Hass (email)
Date: 12/24/2001 at 09:16:09

[The following was published in the July 30, 1914 edition of the "Beresford News."]
Another Pioneer Gone.

Peter Lass, an old and highly respected citizen of this community, died very suddenly last Sunday evening. He had eaten his supper and seemed to be in his usual health. At the time of his death he was sitting out on the porch visiting with his son when he suddenly leaned over on the railing and when the family reached his side he was dead. Mr. Lass has been ailing for some time past and had experienced several sinking spells, but each time rallied and his sudden passing was not unexpected by the family. The funeral services were held from the Catholic church yesterday morning, conducted by Rev. Fr. Bradley, of Hawarden, and Rev. Fr. Traynor, of Alexandria. The remains were taken to Emmet where they were laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery which is located near his old homestead. The funeral was largely attended by old time neighbors and friends throughout this section of the country.

Peter Lass was a native of Germany and was born at Schleswig-Holstein in the year 1835. When fifteen years of age he accompanied an uncle to the United States and settled first at Clinton, Iowa, where he worked for some three years, receiving in payment his board and clothing. Fifty-four years ago he was united in marriage to Miss Regina Cooper, who was also a native of Germany. To this union twelve children were born, eleven of whom are still living. They are Mrs. Barbara Henle, of Sioux Falls; John and Henry, of Ipswich; P. J., Anthony, Joseph, William and Bernard, all residents of this vicinity; Mrs. Joe McGuire, Mrs. Tom Quinn and Mrs. Ben McGuire, of Beresford. One daughter, Mrs. Henry Henle, passed away some years ago. In 1870 Mr. and Mrs. Lass became residents of Dakota territory, settling on a homestead in the Emmet neighborhood where they lived until a short time ago when Mr. Lass' health made it necessary for him to retire and they became residents of Beresford. Mr. Lass as one of the pioneers in this section had all the trials of the first homesteaders to overcome, but by a life of industry and thrift he became one of the prosperous and substantial farmers of this part of the state. He was widely known and highly respected and won a reputation for honesty and integrity that gave him a place among our foremost citizens. While his death was not unexpected, yet the announcement of his passing was a shock to his host of old time friends. Besides his children he leaves an aged wife, who is now bowed down in grief. The NEWS extends heartfelt sympathy to the relatives who will miss his kindly presence.

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