John L. Overholt 1862-1917

OVERHOLT, JOHNSTON, MCFARLAND, HALE, LATTA

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 5/31/2023 at 07:29:44

Columbus Gazette, Columbus Junction, IA
Thursday, September 6, 1917
Page 1

Dr. John L. Overholt died suddenly Saturday afternoon while sitting at his office desk writing directions for the use of some cold and cough syrup which J. B. Johnston had just secured from him. Mr. Johnston was alone with him in the office at the time. Mr. Johnston had previously spoken to him about his health and he said he was not feeling very well and sitting at the desk writing he again said, "I am not feeling very well." The words barely uttered when his head dropped to one side and his body sank in his office chair. Mr. Johnston stepped to aid him then hurried to the office of Dr. L. G. Woodruff for aid. Dr. Hubbard was immediately summoned but in less than three minutes he ceased to breath and he had passed away.

Dr. Overholt was one of Louisa county's best known and most successful practitioners. John L. Overholt was the son of Dr. and Mrs. Daniel D. Overholt and was born in the county, at Columbus City, July 12, 1862. He attended the public schools and later deciding to follow the profession of his father he attended the Iowa State University and graduated from the medical department with the class of 1887. Returning to this city he formed a partnership with his father which continued until advancing age led his father to retire.

He was married October 6, 1887 to Miss Marion V. McFarland and to them six children were born, one of whom, a daughter, Grace and the other preceded him in death. The daughter was called from earth, March 9, 1912 and five days later, March 14, 1912, her mother followed her to the heavenly home. A few years later Dr. Overholt was united in marriage to Mrs. Frane Hale, of Columbus City, a sister of his first wife, who survives to mourn his sudden death. The surviving children of his first marriage are three sons, Daniel, of West Liberty, Jack, of New York City, James, at home and one daughter, Miss Edith, at home. He is also survived by five step children, two brothers, S. M. Overholt, of this city and Roscoe Overholt and one sister, Mrs. Rowie Latta, of Peyton.

Dr. Overholt was an active member of the Presbyterian church of this city. He was also a member of Columbus City lodge No. 107 A. F. and A. M. and of the Eastern Star. He was a man of sound judgment. For more then fifteen years he served as a member of the local Board of Education. The funeral service was held Monday afternoon at the Presbyterian church conducted by Rev. W. E. Ruston.