O'Connor, John P. 1878-1903

OCONNER

Posted By: Barbara Hug (email)
Date: 1/21/2004 at 18:54:35

Oskaloosa, April 24 – John F. Conner of Monroe, aged 24, a Rock Island brakeman, was ground to pieces at Evans this morning. ~ The Newton Daily Herald, Monday, April 27, 1903, Page 1, Column 1

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The funeral of John F. O’Connor, who was killed at Evans last Thursday night, took place from the St. John Catholic Church of Monroe Saturday morning at 8 o’clock, Rev. Father Thos. Loftus of Newton conducting the services of High Mass.

Deceased was the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Martin O’Connor of Monroe. He was 24 years, 10 months and 24 days old. He was born in Philadelphia, Pa., May 30th, 1878.

When seven years of age he came with his parents to Monroe where he has since lived. He was a single man and was breaking on the Keokuk Division of the Rock Island when killed. He fell from a car while switching at Evans and death was instantaneous. The body was taken to Oskaloosa and prepared for burial and shipped to Monroe. After the funeral the remains were taken to Des Moines for interment. A special car was provided for the family and friends.

He leaves besides his broken hearted parents, three brothers and three sisters to mourn the loss of a good son and brother. The church was crowded with sympathizing friends and neighbors. The railroad company did everything possible to lighten the sorrow of the family. Beautiful floral offerings were sent by the railroad employees. One cross nearly three feet long made of beautiful chrysanthemums, roses, lilies and ferns from the railroad men of Valley Junction was a token of the high esteem he was held there. The ushers were Messrs. Smouse Barr, Will and Cliff Evans.

The pallbearers were James, Thomas and John O’Connor, Ed Bench, M. Finnesy and Ed Clifford, cousins of the deceased. A special prayer service conducted by Rev. Father Loftus of Newton was held in the church here Monday morning. The inquest took place at Evans today. The family have the sympathy of all. Deceased was insured for &700, the policy to be paid to the parents. ~ The Newton Daily Herald, Wednesday, April 29, 1903, Page 4, Column 1 - Monroe