William Henry Gibbs 1858-1940

GIBBS, RICHMOND, FLOYD, OLSON

Posted By: Merllene Andre Bendixen (email)
Date: 11/27/2014 at 23:10:12

Wm. Gibbs, A Pioneer Resident, Died Near Armstrong Friday
(Armstrong Journal)
Funeral services for Wm. H. Gibbs, a resident of Emmet county for 61 years, were held Monday afternoon in the Presbyterian church conducted by the Rev R.R. Irwin. Burial was in Armstrong Grove cemetery. Mr. Gibbs had been in poor health for some time due to a condition of palsy and complications. William H. Gibbs was born October 7, 1858 near Racine, Wis. He died at his home southeast of Armstrong on June 24, 1940, at the age of 81 years, 8 months and 14 days.

During his childhood he lived with his parents on a farm near Racine, Wis. His father died when he still a small boy. At the age of 18, with his mother and brother, he moved to Armstrong, locating on the farm now owned by Mrs. Mary Dundas. On February 12, 1881 he was united in marriage to Jeanette Richmond, who preceded him in death January 5, 1939. To this union were born three children, Edith who died in infancy, Mrs. Margie Floyd and Mrs. Louis Olson both of Armstrong. He leaves to mourn his passing his two daughters, eight grandchildren, and his brother, John, of Lansford, N. D., besides a host of other relatives and friends.

Mr. Gibbs left the farm in 1895 and moved to Armstrong where he was engaged in the automobile and garage business. He was the first Ford dealer in Armstrong. For a number of years prior to his death he had lived on his farm. Much of his life was spent in the service of his community and of Emmet county. For many years he served as trustee of Armstrong Grove township. In 1904 he was elected to the board of supervisors of Emmet county and served in this capacity for 20 years. During this time Emmet county's vast drainage system was inaugurated and completed. His long and faithful service to Emmet county endeared him to his host of friends, for he was an honorable man, esteemed and respected by everyone. (Estherville Enterprise, Estherville, IA, June 27, 1940)

Funeral Services at Armstrong For W.H. Gibbs
W.H. Gibbs, aged pioneer of Armstrong passed away Friday night at his home following a long illness. Mr. Gibbs was one of Armstrong’s earliest settlers and was a former county supervisor. His death was mourned by young and old in Armstrong.

Funeral services were conducted Monday afternoon at the Presbyterian church at Armstrong by the Rev. Irwin. A large crowd paid tribute to Mr. Gibbs at his funeral and there were many lovely floral offerings.

He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Margaret Floyd, Mrs. Leonard Olson, both of Armstrong. (Vindicator and Republican, Estherville, IA, June 27, 1940)