Blackledge, Zeller 1879-1899

BLACKLEDGE

Posted By: Barbara Hug (email)
Date: 3/6/2005 at 08:56:25

Death of Zeller Blackledge

Zeller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver J. Blackledge, died at the family residence in Palo Alto Township, on Wednesday of last week, April 12th. His disease was pneumonia, attended by almost three weeks of intense suffering. Zeller was born and raised in the neighborhood in which he died, and his exemplary character, and many traits of noble young manhood had always made him popular with young and old and the center of a large circle of friends. His age was twenty years and ten months ­ called away at the threshold of a bright and useful career. His death has filled the home with deepest sorrow, in which his parents, brothers and sister have the tenderest sympathy of all.

The funeral services were held at Mt. Zion M. E. Church at 11 o’clock Friday, conducted by the pastor, Rev. D. S. Dunlavey of Reasnor, a large number of sorrowing and sympathizing friends being present. ~ The Newton Record Thursday, Newton, IA, April 20, 1899

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Death has again entered our midst and taken from us a loved one. After two weeks of intense suffering Zeller O., son of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Blackledge, was called from his earthly to his heavenly home.

Some two weeks ago he was attacked with pneumonia and though all that loved ones and medical skill could do, was done, earthly help was of no avail.

Zeller was twenty years, nine months and twenty-five days old. With the exception of last winter, which was spent in school, his life was spent upon the farm. Of a happy, loving disposition, he numbered his friends by those who knew him.

As a result of his early training in the home, the Sunday school and the church, he was prepared to meet his God. Shortly before the summons, he sang and prayed. He knew he could not live and while just crossing be border of manhood life, which was very dear to him, he expressed his willingness to go and bade his loved ones goodbye and asked them to meet him in the better land where there is no parting. “To live in hearts we leave behind, is not to die.” .

The funeral was held at Mt. Zion on Friday, April 14th, where amid a large concourse of friends he was laid to rest. ~ The Newton Record, Newton, IA, Thursday, April 27, 1899 Page 4, Column 3.