John C. Felhauer 1832-1912

FELHAUER, SCHALLER, JENSEN, COLLINSON, BURNS, KOELLER, JOYNT, MILITOR

Posted By: Cathy Joynt Labath (email)
Date: 12/10/2006 at 13:09:54

Emmetsburg Democrat
Emmetsburg, Palo Alto, Iowa
20 March 1912

HE LIVED TO A RIPE OLD AGE
John C. Felhauer, One of the Pioneers of West Bend Township

John C. Felhauer, whose death was briefly mentioned in last week's Democrat, passed away at his home at West Bend Thursday, March 7, at 6 p.m. He had been ailing for only a short time. The funeral was held Tuesday, March 12. Father Dullard of Whittemore celebrated a requiem high mass. He was assisted by Fathers Jungblut and Dobberstein. Father Jungblut preached a very impressive sermon. The pall bearers were six sons of veterans-Franklin Minger, Wm. Andregg, George Gardner, Wm. White, James McGinly, and Harry Dorweiler. Interment was in the parochial cemetery. The members of the G.A.R. wre present at the sad exercises. As the remains were being taken from the church, Mrs. Joseph Clennon sang, "Face to Face."

Mr. Felhauer was born in Prussia, Germany, January 15, 1832. Hence he was 80 years of age at the time of his death. At the age of 18 he entered the military service of his native country, spending six years in the army. In 1856 he came to the United States, residing in Illinois for a short time and later going to Denver, Colorado. In 1861 he enlisted as a volunteer in the Civil war, serving until the close. Just before the end of the war he lost the sight of his right eye, caused by the cold and dampness. In 1868 he came to Iowa, settling on a homestead just south of the present town of West Bend. He was united in marriage to Barbara Schaller at Dyersville, Iowa, November 16, 1869. To this union eight children were born, two sons and six daughters. All are living. They are Jacob and Andrew of Marquis, Canada, and Mesdames Fred Jensen of Pocahontas Center, C.M. Collinson of Algona, E.H. Burns of Chicago, John Koeller of Marquis, Canada, M.W. Joynt of Emmetsburg and Peter Molitor of West Bend. All were in attendance at the funeral.

Mr. Fehlhauer had a long and interesting career. At an early age he entered the services of his native country, spending six years in defense of its honors and its prestige. When war threatened the unity and the welfare of the land of his adoption he volunteered his services to battle for its flag and to preserve its free institutions. He remained in the field until peace was restored. What greater sacrifice could any native citizen have made? To whom should higher honors have been shown by those whose highly prized national interests he sought to preserve? Assuming the duties of husband and father, he was frugal, industrious, and painstaking. He not only gave to those depending upon him their ordinary needs but he made early and ample provisions for rainy weather. He proved himself useful as a private citizen as he had been valiant and dutiful as a soldier. He lead an upright life. He was genial and obliging as a neighbor. He supported willingly the religious and other organizations to which he belonged and he shared with his fellow men and ardent interest in the general welfare of the community that esteemed him a member. The writer knew Mr. Fehlhauer intimately for many years, enjoyed his friendship and confidence, and prized his loyal support. It is with genuine sorrow that we learn of his death. The sympathy of a wide circle of friends and acquaintances is extended to Mrs. Fehlhauer and the serveral sons and daughters in their bereavement.