Shankland, Edith Lillian 1895 - 1896

SHANKLAND

Posted By: volunteer
Date: 12/14/2006 at 08:45:31

Newton (IA) Journal
Wednesday, August 19, 1896

Obituary

Another Wittemberg home has been visited by the Angel of Death. Edith Lillian Shankland, nearly 11 months old, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Shankland, after ten days of almost constant suffering, passed away Monday morning, the 10th.

The sweet babe was first taken with cholera infantum, but toward the end there were symptoms of diphtheria, which probably hastened its death. From the first indication of this dreadful disease, the parents and friends used every possible caution, to prevent any possible infection.

A simple funeral service was held the next morning, at a safe distance from the house, attended by a few friends and neighbors, Rev. E. Durant, pastor of Wittemberg church, officiating, and the casket was not opened.

Three weeks ago, the oldest and now only child, a little fellow of two and a half years, was stricken with flux, and was for a time in danger, but is now rapidly recovering. Upon the first signs of diphtheria, he was promptly removed to a house belonging to Chas. McElroy, who kindly offered it for the purpose. The bereaved parents and friends wish to tender their grateful thanks to all who have so kindly assisted them in this time of trial, and also those who showed their sympathy by attending the simple service.

Ere sin could blight, or sorrow fade,
Death came with friendly care;
To heaven conveyed the opening bud,
And bid it blossom there.