Graf, Nicholas 1835 – 1915

GRAF, GANNON

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 1/7/2021 at 11:03:48

Source: Cresco Plain Dealer May 14, 1915 P-FP C-4

Death of N. Graf.
Our people was startled to hear, Tuesday forenoon, that N. Graf, after a few hours’ illness, had passed away at about ten o'clock at his home in Cresco. He had been about town as usual the day before his death, even trying to arrange for a trip to Saratoga to look after some business interests. During the night he was taken ill and a physician called. Mr. Graf was relieved and ate breakfast, but later was taken much worse and died suddenly while sitting in his chair.
Deceased, who was about 80 years of age, was one of the County’s old residents, living in Saratoga for years and coming to Cresco about 20 years ago, during which time he has been, until recently, in active business. The funeral will take place this morning at the Church of the Assumption with interment in St. Joseph’s Cemetery beside the remains of the wife who preceded him in death but a few weeks.

Source: Cresco Plain Dealer May 21, 1915 P-FP C-3

Nicholas Graf was born March 17, 1835, at Neiderdonaven, Luxemburg, and died May 11, 1915, at his home in Cresco, Iowa, aged 80 years. He came to the United States when 17 years of age, living some time in St. Louis, where he followed the work of shipbuilding and for several years acted as boat carpenter, running on the Mississippi river from Memphis to New Orleans.
In 1860 he was married to Miss Catherine Gannon, who preceded him in death only six months. Their home was in Prairie du Chien until the spring of 1867, when they moved to Saratoga, Iowa, to a farm which they purchased. Mr. and Mrs. Graf continued living on the same homestead until 1890, when they moved to Cresco, Iowa, Mr. Graf engaging in the flour and feed business, from which he retired in 1912. Eight children were born to them, five of whom are living-
Honorable in all his dealings with his fellowmen, strict in the observance of religious duties, kind and considerate toward his family, he has left a heritage worthy of emulation. His death came unexpectedly, having been in his usual health until a few hours before, when he complained of a chill. Medical aid was summoned and for a time he seemed to improve and assured those around him that he was not seriously ill. An hour later he asked for his pastor, Rev. Father Murtagh, who came and administered the last rites of the Church. With these words, “If its God’s will, I'm ready,” Grandpa Graf closed his eyes in death.

Calvary Cresco Cemetery
 

Howard Obituaries maintained by Constance McDaniel Hall.
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