Richard H. Van Wagenen 1832-1906

VAN WAGENEN, DAVIS, STODDARD, CARPENTER, WOOD, RUNDELL, KLAUS, FREEMAN, LAXSON

Posted By: Cheryl Locher Moonen (email)
Date: 4/18/2017 at 22:46:01

Richard H. Van Wagenen

The intelligence of the death of our esteemed fellow townsman, R. H. Van Wagenen, came as a shock to the community on Friday morning. All though Mr. Van Wegenen had been in failing health for sometime, his death was unexpected. As a man he was quiet and unassuming and earnest in all things honorable. As a citizen he was public spirited, just and true. As an official, having filled the offices of postmaster for several terms and city assessor for some years, he was courteous and exemplary. He was a devoted father and friend and those who knew him best loved him most.

Richard H. Van Wagenen was born in Ulster county, N. J., October 9th 1832, and died at his home in Earlville, Jan 12, 1906, being 73 years, 3 months and 3 days of age. He was married in the year 1856 to Miss Gertrude Davis and the following year they moved to Wisconsin. In 1861, they moved to Iowa and two years later located in Earlville. Four children were born to them, John, Eugene, Nellie and Ernest, of whom only John survives. His wife preceded him to the great beyond on Dec. 9, 1903.

Mr. Van Wagenen was a blacksmith by trade and followed this occupation until about twenty years ago. In his late years he had been engaged in the insurance business.

The funeral was held from the Congregational church Sunday afternoon and the services were conducted by Rev. J.C. Stoddard. Interment was made in Fairview cemetery. The bearers were E.J. Carpenter, J.C. Wood, C. L. Rundell, S. W. Klaus, Perry Freeman and C. M. Laxson--Earlville Phoenix

Manchester Democrat, Manchester, Iowa January 25, 1906