JOY ELMER DODGE

DODGE

Posted By: Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert (email)
Date: 5/4/2002 at 20:54:24

Decatur County Journal
Thursday, February 26, l920

Many hearts in Leon and vicinity were made sad Sunday when it was announced that JOY DODGE was dead. His earthly life was spent in Leon and vicinity with the exception of the time spent in the service of his country. He was a young man of sterling worth, highly respected and honored by all who knew him. His untimely death came as a distinct shock to his many friends.

JOY ELMER DODGE, son of WILLIAM DODGE, was born at Weldon, Iowa, May l8, l896, departed this life at the hospital in Leon, Iowa, Sunday morning, Feb. 22, l920, at eleven o'clock, aged 23 years, 9 months and l4 days. The parents removed from Weldon to Leon when JOY was but a little child. During the world war when our country called for volunteers, JOY was among the first to answer the call and enlisted in his country's service. He entered the service, Sept. l9, l9l7, a member of Co. E. 3l3th Engineers, and was stationed at Camp Dodge from Sept., l9l7 to Feb., l9l8. While at Camp Dodge the loving mother was called to her Heavenly home, having departed this life Nov. l5, l9l7. At this time he was granted a furlough home. He was one that loved his home and loved ones dearly, and the loss of his mother left a void in his heart. Soon after his return to Camp Dodge, he was transferred to Camp Merritt, where he remained but a short time when he was transferred to Huffman's Island, where he was placed on detached duty. He was honorably discharged and mustered out of service, Jan. l5, l9l9, after almost two years spent in loyal, faithful service in the cause of his country and humanity.

Some time prior to his release from the Army, he was stricken with sickness and from this illness he never fully recovered. About four weeks ago he was removed to the hospital to undergo an operation, thinking that relief would follow, but on account of his weakened condition, the operation was postponed for a little time, hoping that by careful nursing and treatment he would become stronger. During his illness he was tenderly cared for by willing hands and loving hearts. During the past few weeks his loving father ministered to him unceasingly night and day. He was conscious to the last and always appreciative for every kindness shown him. He leaves to mourn his departure the loving, grief-stricken father and two brothers, EARL and PAUL, other relatives and a host of friends.

Funeral services were held at the Church of Christ on Wednesday afternoon, at 2:30, conducted by Rev. P.H Green, a large concourse of sorrowing friends being in attendance. The floral offerings from friends were profuse and beautiful. Interment in the Leon Cemetery.

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A CARD -- We desire to return our sincere and heartfelt thanks to all the kind friends who were so kind and thoughtful during the illness and death of our beloved son and brother. We shall always cherish the memory of your kindness.

W.A. DODGE and sons,

EARL and PAUL DODGE.

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Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
April 27, 2002