RICE, Calvin M. 1823-1898

RICE, SYKES

Posted By: County Coordinator
Date: 8/20/2011 at 21:28:26

Died Two Weeks Apart

Sarah L. Sykes was born in Agawam Mass., May 20, 1820. Died Nov. 19, 1898 age 78 years, 6 months lacking one day; was married in 1845 at Agawam, Mass., and moved to Green Field Miss. to 55 when they moved to Minn. Came to Mitchell, Iowa, in 1871 where she has since resided. Two children out of five remain, Miss Nettie and Mrs. Bamford. Three died in infancy. C.M. Rice preceded her to the land beyond by two weeks. Mrs. Rice made a profession of religion when 17 and united with the church of her faith, and has lived a devout christian since that time. Of a family, of three brothers and seven sisters only one remains.

Calvin M. Rice was born February 24, 1823 at Hawley, Mass., Died November 4, 1898. Married to Sarah L. Sykes on October 1, 1845 at Agawam, Mass., moved to Castle Rock, Minn., In 1855, Served three years in the war with the eighth regiment Minn., volunteers. Moved to Northfield, Minnesota in 1866 and to Mitchell in 1871 where he has since resided. Of a family of nine, of which he was the fifth there are yet five living. Mr. Rice was of Congregational parentage and he was converted at the age of 12 years and joined the church and lived a christian till death. Mr. Rice was sitting in his chair in farely good health for him and his years, when the heart stopped beating and he passed away without a struggle.

Two weeks to the day, the wife that had walked by his side for so many years, slowly grew weaker and weaker till life was all gone and she followed her husband to the home on high. The funeral was held on Monday following. The house was filled with neighbors and friends. Rev. McNeil of the Congregational church preaching the sermons. The text of Mr. Rice was," He fell asleep." Acts, 7, 60. For Mrs. Rice, "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path: Pa. 119, 105. The remains were laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery here.