Charles Lester Mudge 1856-1918

MUDGE, RUSSELL, MOOREHEAD, FLINDT, RYDER

Posted By: Merllene Andre Bendixen (email)
Date: 7/21/2012 at 22:50:17

A Well Known Railroad Man Called to Rest
C.L. Mudge Died at City Hospital Friday Evening
Funeral Services Sunday
Highly Respected Citizen Victim of Operation – Railroad Circles Mourn
Let us stop and shed a tear to the memory of one who just as the clock was striking six, just at the sun had gone down, last Friday evening, gently and as quietly as one who wraps the drapery of his couch about him and lies down to pleasant drams, just so, this spirit passed from its earthly home to its home in Heaven, we say Heaven, for if there ever was a soul that earned a Heavenly home it was this one of God’s noblemen. We had known him intimately for over twenty years, known him in his daily work, in his home, and socially, and always found him the same jolly, jovial, loving, loyal friend. He made friends wherever he went, kind to a fault, ever thinking of his family and his friends and ever ready to help one in need, oft time going out of his way to do some little kindness, a man whose word was as good as a bond. He had followed his chosen profession, railroading, since early manhood, and by diligent work and a willingness to do right had won the respect and confidence of the officials and his fellow employees. What more can we say to that kind Father who so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believed on him should not perish but everlasting life, we commend the spirit of our friend.

Charles Lester Mudge was born June 6th, 1856 [per cemetery records, 1957], at Spring Creek, Penn. Passed away on November 15, 1918, aged 62 years, 5 months and 9 days. When a child he moved with his parents to Blue Earth, Minn., where he grew to manhood. On December 21st [1882] he was united in marriage to Miss Ella Russell. To this union was born five children, one of which has passed on, and was awaiting him in that Heavenly home, (Mrs. Zena Moorehead, who passed away on January 21st, 1916.)

In 1914 he united with the Christian church at Estherville, remaining steadfast to the end.

He leaves to mourn his departure a loving wife and three daughters, Mrs. Clysia Flindt, Mrs. Telma Ryder, and Miss Ruth Mudge, and one son, Freeman Mudge, a father, 93 years of age, six brothers and two sisters, and friends that are only limited by the number of his acquaintances, and a world that is better for his having passed through it.

Funeral services were conducted from the Methodist church last Sunday afternoon. Short services were conducted at the home at 2:30 after which the body, accompanied by a large number of the members of the railroad brotherhood, was taken to the church. Rev. Dungan, pastor of the deceased, spoke in beautiful words, taking as the text of his message, “Be Ye Also Ready.” He held the friends and loved ones to the closest attention throughout the entire address and many words of commendation have been heard of his masterly effort. Music was furnished by a quartette, composed of Ed Broms, Theo Myhre, Rev. Voorhies and Fred Albertson. Mrs. Cramer was at the organ. Interment was made in Oak Hill cemetery.

And thus another good man is called to his final rest. Another home is darkened by the shadow of death, and yet, why mourn for the departed? He has only closed the book of life with all its grief and pain, to enter upon that better life which knows no ending. We shall miss him. His genial laugh and hearty hand-clasp are known no more to friends, but the memories of this life will live on and on in the hearts of those who knew him best until that grand reunion in a better world shall re-unite all loved ones. Mrs. Mudge and family have the sincere sympathy of the entire community (Estherville Democrat, Estherville, IA, November 20, 1918)

The Passing of C. Mudge
Highly Respected Conductor on the Rock Island Railroad Dies of Blood Poisoning
Had An Operation For Appendicitis
Funeral Held From Methodist Church Sunday Afternoon Conducted by Rev. Dungan
The community was shocked Thursday night when it learned of the death of Conductor Charles Mudge in the city hospital, following a successful operation for appendicitis. He had waited too long for the operation and gangrene had already set in before the knife was used.

The following beautiful tribute was contributed by a friend: [Same as printed in the Democrat] (Vindicator and Republican, Estherville, IA, November 20, 1918)