John Peter Thilges 1871-1942

THILGES, ERPELDING, FUHRMANN

Posted By: Geo Clinton (email)
Date: 8/9/2012 at 14:40:56

May 26, 1942 - Algona Upper Des Moines - Following an illness of three months J.P. Thilges died at his home here Thursday night. Funeral services were held from St. Cecelia's church Monday forenoon with solemn requiem high mass being celebrated following which burial was made in the St. Joseph cemetery. Rev. John J. Thilges, S.V.D., a nephew of deceased, was the celebrant, with Rev. Father Mallinger the deacon and Rev. Father Sweeney, sub-deacon. The pall bearers were Emil Thilges, Lawrence Thilges, Mike Altman, Peter Bormann, Alvin Klein and Clarence Erpelding, all nephews of Mr. Thilges.

J.P. Thilges was born in Luxembourg, Europe, September 5, 1871. He came to this country when 19 years of age. On February 23, 1897, he married Anna M. Erpelding at St. Joe. To this union six children were born Rose and Lawrence, who died in infancy and Catherine C., who died at the age of 20; Susie, Mrs. Louis Fuhrmann, of Algona; Paul Jr., of St. Joe, and Mary at home.

The wife & mother, and the latter three, one grandson, Paul John, Jr., a brother, Leonard of Algona, and one brother and sister still in Luxembourg, survive. Mr Thilges moved to Algona in 1930. Mr. Thilges farmed in Riverdale township up to 1930 when he and Mrs. Thilges retired and moved to this city.

They bought the Barry house which had been built that summer. Mr. Thilges made a trip to Luxembourg in 1926 when he visited his birthplace. He was a member of the Mission League, the Sacred Heart League and the Rosary society. Distant relatives who came for the final services were Rev. John J. Thilges, S.V.D., of Epworth, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Wm Gractken of LeMars, and Mr. and Mrs. George Kleitt, Mrs. Nick Schneider and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Klein, of Watkins, Minn.