William James Brand 1895-1920

BRAND, HOWE

Posted By: Merllene Andre Bendixen (email)
Date: 9/18/2010 at 21:25:22

Wm. Brand Killed by N.W. Train
Born in This City – Happened at Belle Plaine
Funeral Service Here
Son of Tom Brand of the Rock Island – Well Known and Liked

When word was received of the tragic death of William Brand in this city last week, it came as a great shock to the many friends of the Brand family. William as born in Estherville and was known to all our people as a young man of character and industry. His happy disposition and bright smile made for him many friends wherever he went.

He was accidentally killed by a Northwestern train at Belle Plaine last Wednesday, April 7th. According to reports of the accident, his foot slipped from the step of the engine on which he was riding. He was thrown in front of the engine, the step hit him, causing him to lose his senses for a moment. He came to himself about the time the fourth car passed over him and made a desperate effort to get out from under the wheels and both legs were amputated by the wheels. The accident happened about noon and he lived until 2:30 p.m.

The body was brought to this city Friday for burial and the funeral was held from the home of his uncle, George Howe, on North Seventh street. The bereaved family and relatives have the deepest sympathy of the entire community in this great sorrow. Following is the obituary as handed to us by the presiding minister.

William James Brand was born at Estherville, Iowa, September 7, 1895 and came to his death in Belle Plaine, Iowa, at the age of 24 years and seven months.

At the age of twelve years he moved with his parents to Cedar Rapids where at the age of 18 he graduated from high school, having finished the work with honor to himself and the class. When it was seen that the United States would enter the great world war he immediately enlisted in the service and went with the A.E.F. to France, where he took part in much of the hardest campaigning and acquitted himself in a manly way. After two years and four months in the service he was returned to American and received his honorable discharge. Shortly thereafter he entered the service of the Chicago Northwestern railroad as a fireman in which service he was engaged when his death came as a result of the accident.

The body was brought to Estherville Saturday morning and funeral services were held from the home of his uncle, Mr. G. E. Howe, and the body was buried in Oak Hill cemetery. Mrs. C. B. Gaard sang two beautiful selections and Rev. J. W. LaGrone minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, read the funeral services and spoke briefly to a large number of friends and neighbors who had gathered for the services. Many beautiful floral designs were brought by friends of the family. He is survived by father, mother, brother, sister and many other relatives and sorrowing friends. (Vindicator and Republican, Estherville, IA, April 14, 1920)