Melvin Decker (1824-1889)

DECKER

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 7/10/2013 at 07:43:16

Maquoketa Excelsior, March 16, 1889

OBITUARY

Mr. Melvin Decker was born in Washington County, New York, in 1824 and died in Maquoketa March 7, 1889. Between these two lines are crowded the events of a long and useful life. He was married in 1846 and into his home came three children, who in their early years were left motherless and now fatherless. His second marriage proved not less happy than his first and a devoted wife and her two sons mourn his absence. Converted at the age of fourteen he joined the Methodist Episcopal, was made class leader and exhorter and was both faithful and efficient in his work. He became a resident of Maquoketa in 1873 and since that time has been identified with Christianity in earnest. Lung fever struck his death blow, but he passed away in great triumph. The funeral services were held last Saturday in the Methodist Episcopal Church. His pastor, Rev. J. G. Van Ness, preached the sermon. At the grave the United Order of Ancient Templars read a brief service.