Harry Gaunt 1938-1964

GAUNT, YEGGY

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 10/8/2020 at 08:49:04

5 November 1964 - The Tipton Conservative

Harry Frank Gaunt, 26, Atalissa, a native of Tipton, was killed early Oct. 30 when his car crashed into a bridge abutment on Highway 6, 1 1/2 miles west of Atalissa.

He was the only occupant of the car and was apparently killed instantly.

Muscatine county sheriff's deputies estimated the speed of the westbound 1958 model sedan at between 60 and 80 miles per hour when it struck the southeast guard rail of the bridge at 4:15 a.m.

Deputies said a small fire broke out in the dashboard area of the smashed auto, but was quickly extinguished. The auto had to be pried apart to extricate Gaunt's body.

Deputies theorized that Gaunt may have fallen asleep at the wheel.

Gaunt was born June 22, 1938 in Tipton, the son of Robert and Alta Hines Gaunt. He married Betty Yeggy August 6, 1958 in Seaton, Ill.

Survivors include his widow, and 3 children, Robert, 2; Tina, 5 and Debbie, three months.

Gaunt's parents and one brother, Willard of West Liberty, also survive.

Gaunt was a member of the Christian church and was employed by the J. I. Case Co. in Davenport.

Funeral services were Monday in West Liberty. Burial was in Oakridge cemetery.