Martha Kittelson, 1831-1910

KITTELSON, ESPESET

Posted By: Emmet County IAGenWeb Coordinator (email)
Date: 2/13/2009 at 07:18:16

OLD SETTLER DEAD

Mrs. Martha Kettleson Passed Away in Henry, S. D., Sunday
Burial Service Here Today

Was Early Settler in Emmet County - Lived North of Estherville for Many Years Before Moving Away.

Mrs. Martha Kettleson, mother of Mrs. Nels Anderson, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ralph Johnson of Henry, South Dakota, Sunday morning [Dec. 18 1910] at one o'clock after an illness of four days. The remains were brought to Estherville last evening and the funeral service held from the Lutheran church this afternoon at 1 o'clock. Rev. Engh of Black River Falls, Minnesota, her former pastor here, delivered a funeral address. Rev. Akre also delivered an address in English. Burial was made in the Lutheran cemetery.

Miss Martha Espeset was born in [Hallingdal] Norway January 18, 1831. She was baptized February 13, 1831, and has been a member of the Lutheran church all her life. In 1845 the family moved to America and settled in Rock Prairie, Wisconsin. There they lived until 1850, when they came to Allamakee county, Iowa, where she married Erick Kettleson. In 1870 the family came to Emmet county and settled on the Kettleson farm just north of Estherville, where they lived for many years. Eight children were born to this union,of whom five are living. Following are the living children: Mrs. Nels Anderson, Estherville; Mrs. Barbara Sando, Colton, South Dakota; Albert Kettleson, and Mrs. Ralph Johnson, Henry, South Dakota; and Mrs. L. J. Hauge, Howard, South Dakota. Her husband died September 21, 1895.

Mrs. Kettleson moved to Henry, S. D., about twelve years ago, and lived there until her death. Beside five children she leaves thirty-seven living grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren. All of her children except one and many of her grandchildren were here to attend the funeral. Mrs. Ralph Johnson was unable to be present on account of sickness in her family.

Mrs. Kettleson was a lovable old lady. She was held in high esteem by friends and neighbors during her many years residence here. Her Christian qualities made her a force for good wherever she resided. The entire community joins in sympathy to the family of this good woman in sorrow.

Contributed by: Ruth Hackett. Source: Estherville Enterprise, Estherville, Emmet County, Iowa, December 21, 1910.