John M. Soderberg (1956)

SODERBERG, WICKSTRUM

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler
Date: 3/27/2007 at 10:55:11

Earlham Echo
Earlham, Iowa
May 1956

John M. Soderberg, son of Peter and Maria Soderberg, was born in Smaland, Sweden, July 6, 1860. When he was a small boy he migrated with is family to America in the year of 1870.

They settled first in Henry county, Illinois, where his mother passed away. A few years later the family came to Adair county, Iowa, where his brother, Lewis, and he purchased farms.

He was married on March 3, 1893, to Lena Wickstrum. They made their home on a farm near Canby, Iowa, where they lived and prospered. His father made his home with him until his death. As no children of their own came to bless their home, they took a small boy, Charles, of eighteen months into their hearts and home.

They established residence in Casey due to his wife's health on March 1, 1918. She passed away on October 30, 1918. He operated a feed and grinding business for several years where he made a wide circle of friends.

On April 27, 1933 he was married to Ida Soderberg, widow of his brother, Lewis. She preceded him in death on February 25, 1939.

On September 19, 1945, he suffered a heart attack, and while convalescing decided to come to Earlham, where he would be near his son and his church. He enjoyed his little home and always had a cheerful greeting for all who called on him.

He was a charter member of the Canby Friends church which was near his farm home. After moving to Earlham he transferred his membership to the Earlham Friends church. His health did not permit him to attend as much as he would have liked since coming here, but he kept in close contact with his church.

Since he has been confined to his home, his radio was his constant companion. He loved the sermons and music and it helped him to keep in touch with the outside world. He passed away at his home on May 3, 1956.

He leaves his son, Charles and wife, two granddaughters, Bonnie and Beverly. There are also two great granddaughters, Christine and Elizabeth, and his youngest brother, Swan Soderberg, who is ninety years old, of Wakefield, Nebraska. Preceding him in death were two brothers and a sister. He leaves, also, many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

The funeral service was held at the Earlham Friends church on May 5, with the pastor, L. Willard Reynolds, in charge. Burial was in the Oakwood cemetery at Casey, Iowa.

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