Thomas Oakes (1812 - 1899)

OAKES, GARDINIER, SACHLER, DISHER, ROCK

Posted By: Dorothy Gosse (email)
Date: 3/29/2003 at 22:33:07

In Memory of Thomas Oakes

The many friends of Mr. Oakes, of Stanley, were surprised to learn of his sudden passing from this life, on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 12 (1899). He had not been feeling quite as well as usual, but was up about the house and yard. His son and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Oakes were just returning from the funeral of C. Z. Gardinier, and just as Mrs. Oakes stepped inside the door, the old gentleman, who had noted their arrival from his seat near the window, suddenly dropped from his chair unconscious. Every means was used to resuscitate him but he could not be accused, although his pulse continued to beat for nearly ten minutes after he was stricken senseless. The funeral services were held at the Stanley church on Saturday, Rev. A. Abramson of this city officiating.

Thomas Oakes was born in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, March 14, 1812. In the year of 1837, November 9, he was united in marriage to Elevia Sachler. By this union were born seven children, of whom four are alive at this present; H. S. Oakes of Stanley; Will Oakes, Cherokee; Mrs. Mary Disher, Cherokee; Mrs. Martha Rock, Canton, S. D. Sechler died in 1864, Sarah Ellen in 1872, and Rebecca in 1874. Coming west they settled at Ogle county, Illinois, in the year 1849, and in 1882 came to Iowa. Some of the time since the family resided in Oelwein, and it was here that Mrs. Oakes finished her life work in 1891. He was known as a true, just man and many hearts were saddened by the news that he had gone from among those who loved him so dearly.

Oelwein Register - April 19, 1899
Note - burial was in Otsego Cemetery, SW of Oelwein