G. F. Kern 1835-1907

KERN, BOBREN, STILLEON, SMITH

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 8/31/2022 at 14:12:19

Columbus Gazette, Columbus Junction, Iowa
Thursday, June 13, 1907
page 1

While everybody knew in a general way that Mr. Kern was in quite poor health, his taking of Sunday afternoon came as a shock to us all as few expected his demise so soon. G. F. Kern was a Swiss, having been born in the Canton of Bern, February 2, 1835, consequently was past 72 years of age at his death.

He came to America with an elder brother in 1852 arriving at Philadelphia on July 4, of that year. He soon went to Ohio where he remained until 1856 when he came to Iowa, first settling in Muscatine. In 1859 he came to Grandview where he began the business of harness maker. This he continued until August 1862, when he enlisted in Co. G 19th Iowa infantry, serving faithfully and well until the close of the war. At the battle of Prairie Grove, he was seriously wounded. He was placed in hospital July 29, 1863 and from there transferred to the invalid corps. He never fully recovered from his wound, but was not discharged until June 29, 1865. On his return from the army he resumed his business at Grandview. In 1874 he removed to Ainsworth. In 1876 he established himself in business here which continued until his death.

He was twice married. His first wife was Miss Rosina Bobren, also of Switzerland. She died at this place November 17, 1884. On December 17, 1885, he was again married, his second wife who survives him was Miss Lucinda Stilleon. The children surviving by his first wife are Mrs. J. R. Smith, Frederick, who lives in Omaha, Franklin, George and Clarence. The other live at this place. Ora, the only child by the second wife, lives at home with her mother.

While Mr. Kern had been in rather feeble health for years, his last severe illness was only of a week's duration. Few knew of it until his death was announced. The funeral occurred Wednesday, at 10 o'clock from the Reformed church at this place conducted b Rev. John W. Betchel, of Conesville. Burial in Columbus City cemetery. Mr. Kern has long been prominent in G. A. R. circles, has frequently been the commander of the post here and was its a chaplain at the time of his death. His casket was borne to the church and cemetery wrapped in his country's colors.