KEEPER, Henry (1879-1949)

KEEPER, BECKMAN, LUCAS

Posted By: Hancock Co Genealogical Society (email)
Date: 5/2/2015 at 17:51:47

Henry Keeper, son of Klaus and Johanna Keeper, was born the 19th of June, 1879 at Geberdorf, Hanover, Germany. His childhood days were spent in the home of his parents. He attended the public and Church School and was confirmed in the Lutheran Church. In 1905 he was married to Miss Gretchen Beckman. One year later the young couple came to America with their infant daughter Anna. This child was taken from them in death at the age of 17.

Mr. and Mrs. Keeper found a home in Klemme, Iowa where Mr. Keeper found employment tiling, and for many years he worked for the railroad as a section hand. For a short time he was section foreman at Goodell.

Four children were born to them in this country, Albert and Alvin of Albion, Michigan; Hilda, Mrs. E. W. Lucas of Grants Pass, Oregon and Raymond of Mason City, Iowa.

Since coming to America Mr. and Mrs. Keeper lived in Klemme with the exception of two years 1945-1947, that were spent in California. Mr. Keeper earned his living in the sweat of his brow, doing an honest days work for his wages. His friends will remember him as a friendly companion who was inclined to deal kindly with his fellow man. On May 31st he went to work as usual, feeling ready for a good days tiling. At about ten o'clock he became ill and was brought home by one of his fellow workmen. He received medical care but his hour of departure was at hand. He died at 11 o'clock at the age of 69 years, 11 months and 12 days.

Of four sisters three are still living in Germany, namely Johanna, Marie and Gretchen. Surviving him and mourning his sudden departure are his wife Gretchen, four children, Albert, Alvin, Hilda and Raymond and seven grandchildren.

source: Klemme Times, 8 Jun 1949, page 1, col 2