Simpson, Rev. John 1820-1907

SIMPSON, PATRICK

Posted By: Lois J. Hinshaw
Date: 5/1/2009 at 10:33:58

John Simpson was born in Muskingham County, Ohio, near the town of Zanesville, on December 16, 1820, and died at his home in Kellogg, Iowa, August 24, 1907, having attained to the age of 86 years, 8 months and 11 days.

His mother died while he was yet a small boy, ten or twelve years of age. His father then moved with his family to Putnam County, Ohio, near Gilboa, on what was then called the western reserve. The country was very new, and school and church advantages were meagre indeed; so much so that the sum total of his school days were numbered by only six months. In this wilderness amidst the swamps and dense forest, he grew to early manhood, with the few advantages above named.

When he had grown to manhood amidst these surroundings he had studied at home so as to be able to teach the country schools. Living on a farm as he did, there was not much time or opportunity for mental training, but against these odds he studied law and when ready to be admitted to the bar, he refused to take the oath then required of the applicant to practice before the Courts. He then turned his attention to the ministry in which he labored faithfully and consistently, so long as he was able. His ministerial life covered a period of some 55 years, much of this time being spent as a member of the West Des Moines W. B. Conference.

He was married to Elizabeth Patrick on July 14, 1842. To them were born nine children, three of whom have passed on before; six of whom, with the wife and mother, still survive him and were all present, with many grandchildren and some greatgrandchildren.

Mr. Simpson came to Jasper County in 1861 and settled on a farm at Westfield and later moved to the old homestead, southeast of Kellogg, which is occupied by his son, Jasper Simpson.

In the year 1870, he took up his residence in Kellogg, where the remainder of his busy life has been spent.

During his residence in Kellogg he has held many important positions of honor and trust, such as mayor of the town, justice of the peace and as president and member of the school board. In these positions and in all the relations of life he discharged the duties incumbent upon him in a faithful and courageous manner. He was a man of strong convictions and dared to do his duty. The world is better for his having lived in it.

Funeral services were held at the family residence on Monday afternoon, conducted by Elder Miller, of Des Moines, an old time friend of Mr. Simpson.

Interment took place at the Kellogg Cemetery.

Card of thanks -- Mrs. Simpson and family desire us to express their heartfelt thanks to the neighbors and kind friends, who assisted them during the illness and death of their beloved husband and father, and also for the beautiful floral tributes received.

Buried in Block 4 Lot 9 - Our Silent City Cemetery

The Kellogg Enterprise