John Urquhart (1962)

URQUHART

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler (email)
Date: 8/22/2008 at 10:03:46

Earlham Echo – May 1962

John Urquhart, oldest son of David and Elizabeth Urquhart, was born in Catrine, Ayreshire, Scotland, on September 14, 1872, and passed away on May 17, 1962 in Des Moines, Iowa. He was the last of a family of four children, his sister and father died before John left his native Scotland in 1886; his brother George preceded him in death a few years ago, Dan just last March.

When John was only fourteen years old he came to the U.S.A., but returned to Scotland in a short time. Not being satisfied he again came to the U.S. where he lived until the time of his death.

He located in Chicago, Illinois, for a few years, then moved to Funk’s Grove, Illinois, where he engaged in farming, and for two years he lived in Missouri. In 1907 he came to Earlham, Iowa, bought land and settled down with his mother and brother who had joined him some time before. He later sold his land and moved to the town of Earlham to engage in business. He worked for the Rock Island Railroad in the depot and managed the Standard Oil Station, contacting and making many friends. He was interested in the affairs of the community and served on the Town Council. His integrity was unquestioned, he was a good farmer and stockman, industrious and frugal, a good friend and neighbor.

Mr. Urquhart was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star. He was brought up in the Presbyterian church in Scotland. His faith was simple and sincere if not always demonstrative. He was a great reader and kept well informed in world affairs.

Some time after the death of his mother John moved to Des Moines where his death occurred at the age of almost 90 years.

John Urquhart was a familiar figure in Earlham for years. We have missed him.

He is survived by two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Dan Urquhart of Rodman, Iowa, and Mrs. George Urquhart of Stuart, Iowa, four nieces, four nephews and many, many friends.

Funeral services were held at the Fisher Funeral Home in Van Meter on Saturday, May 19, at 2:00 p.m. Rev. Delbert Welty was in charge. William Price was the soloist and Miriam Caudron played the organ. Interment was in the Earlham cemetery.

Casket bearers were W. G. Jackson, R. G. Foster, L. O. Patten, Fred Petersen, Earl Schalkle and B. G. Harris.