Charles Wyckoff (1838-1918)

WYCKOFF, GRIES, SMITH

Posted By: Anne Hermann (email)
Date: 3/21/2010 at 11:22:56

Jackson Sentinel, Maquoketa, Iowa, October 24, 1918

COUNTY PIONEER DIES

Charles Wyckoff, died at the home of his son, Henry in Delmar, Iowa, October 16, 1918, from old age and general debility, aged 80 years, 9 months and 5 days. Deceased was born in Michigan and came west with his father, Col. R. B. Wyckoff, in 1838, and settled on a claim in Van Buren township., Jackson County, Territory of Iowa, which was the home of Charles the greater part of his life, and which he always claimed as his home. He was very active in the affairs of his township and county, as his father had been before him. Possessed of a high moral and Christian character, a warm, generous disposition and a willingness to do for others less endowed by nature for life’s struggles than himself. He was frequently called upon to share the burdens of his neighbors and services were always given freely and without stint. In all undertakings for the betterment of his community he was always found in the lead. He was one of the best posted men in the history and development of Jackson county and the state of Iowa, of any one within its borders. For the past several years he had been very active in the Maquoketa Valley Pioneers and Old Settlers’ Association, and had been unanimously chosen its president. His address on the “Evolution of Jackson County” during his lifetime was pronounced by Gov. Clarke to be the best he had ever heard. Charley, as he was familiarly called, was noted for his love for children with whom he was very popular. He affiliated with the Democratic Party and took a prominent part in its conventions. While he never secured any recognition in the way of office for himself, quite a number of politicians owed their position to the influence that he controlled. Mr. Wyckoff was happily married of the 18th of September, 1857, and his faithful wife lived to celebrate with him their Golden Wedding Anniversary, when more than 500 neighbors and friends came to their home to congratulate them on that event. Mrs. Wyckoff passed away on April 16, 1908, and since then Charles had been making his home with his son Henry.

Last Sunday the remains were taken to the old home cemetery in Van Buren township, and laid beside those of his faithful life partner, in the cherished spot he had done so much to make beautiful. Seven children survive as follows: Theodore, Henry, Samuel, Edwin and John Wyckoff; Mrs. John Gries and Mrs. David Smith. These and a large number of grandchildren and a host of friends will sadly miss the kindly face and hearty greetings of this grand old pioneer.

Charles Wyckoff Grave
 

Jackson Obituaries maintained by Nettie Mae Lucas.
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