Harker, James T. 1854-1935

HARKER

Posted By: Linda Ziemann, volunteer (email)
Date: 7/23/2012 at 14:54:14

LeMars Semi-Weekly Sentinel
June 18, 1935

JAMES T. HARKER, EARLY RESIDENT, TAKEN BY DEATH
Pioneer Blacksmith and Leading Citizen In Merrill For Nearly Half Century

James Thomas Harker, prominent Merrill man, passed away at the Zimmerman
Home in LeMars Thursday following a sickness of about five years duration.
Mr. Harker suffered a stroke a number of years ago, and had been gradually
failing. His condition, aggravated by old age, has been critical for
several weeks.

James Thomas Harker, a son of Mr. and Mrs. John V. Harker, was born in Jo
Daviess county, Ill., September 4, 1854, and at the time of his death had
attained the age of 80 years, 9 months, and 9 days. He was married April 2,
1878, in Stanton township, and was preceded in death by his wife, and one
son, Frank, and two daughters, Lilly and Fern.

He leaves to mourn his loss five children: Mrs. L. J. Walker, of Blunt,
S.D.; Mrs. J. W. Frost, of Lost Nation, Iowa; Chas. C. Harker, of New York;
John Harker, of Sioux City; Mrs. J. C. Miller, of Merrill; one sister, Mrs.
Mary Alfred, of LeMars; and seven grandchildren.

Two brothers, John V. Harker and George W. Harker, well known farmers and
business men in LeMars during their life time, preceded him in death.

Mr. Harker was widely known in Plymouth County, where he lived for over
sixty years. He was engaged in the blacksmith trade in Merrill forty-six
years. He was active in community and civic affairs and served two terms a
Mayor of Merrill. He was president of the school board for eleven years and
served as member of the town council several years. He was a member of the
Knights of Pythias and of the Modern Woodmen.

His cheery disposition and sociable nature gained him a large number of
friends all over the country.

The Funeral services were held at Merrill, Saturday afternoon, Rev. W.
Howdeshell officiating, and interment made in the Merrill cemetery.