Willms, Sophia 1847-1935

WILLMS BOHLKEN, HELLING, POPKEN, FRERICHS

Posted By: Glenna Rice, volunteer (email)
Date: 2/9/2012 at 16:53:03

Early Settler in Grant Township Taken By Death

Mrs. Sophia Willms Prominent In Church And Social Work During Long Life

Mrs. Sophia Willms, wife of Dirck Willms, pioneer of Plymouth county, died at her home, 11 Fourth Avenue NW., Tuesday evening, at the age of 87 years, 11 months and 21 days, following a brief illness. Mrs. Willms enjoyed splendid health through a long and useful life until a few weeks ago.

Sophia Helling was born December 26, 1847, at Halden, Germany, where she grew to young womanhood, coming to America in 1871 with relatives. They located near Monticello, Iowa, and a few years later came to Plymouth county. She was united in marriage with Dirck Willms in Grant township February 26, 1878. They farmed successfully for many years in Grant and Elgin townships and on retiring from active farm life came to LeMars and established a fine home.

Mr. and Mrs. Willms possessed the gifts of thrift and industry, and in their lives set an example worthy of emulation. They celebrated their golden wedding seven years ago and lived a long and happy wedded life.

While living in Grant township Mrs. Willms was a member of the Grant township Lutheran church, and since living in LeMars was a faithful member of St. John's Lutheran church, and the St. John's ladies aid society, active in the work and its associations. She was a devoted wife and mother, and as a friend and neighbor gained the esteem of all who knew her.

She leaves her husband, Dirck Willms, three children, Mrs. George Frerichs, LeMars, Mrs. Herman Popken, Struble, and John Willms, LeMars, eleven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at St. John's Lutheran church, Saturday, December 21, at 2 o'clock, Rev. L. L. Belk, the pastor, officiating, and interment made in the city cemetery.

LeMars Semi-Weekly Sentinel
Friday, December 20, 1935, page 1, column 3
LeMars, Plymouth, Iowa