Wakeman, Harriet Emily 1843-1920

WAKEMAN, HARTUNG, COX

Posted By: Doris Hoffman, Volunteer (email)
Date: 7/25/2015 at 16:24:47

Note: Her maiden name was Cox.

DIED

One of the oldest and most beloved residents of Akron and vicinity--Mrs. Lester Wakeman--passed away at her home in this city Monday morning, December 13, 1920, at the ripe age of 77 years. 10 months, and 17 days.

Harriet Emily Wakeman was born at Westport, Connecticut, January 26, 1843. She first came west to Ohio, then to Burlington, Iowa, and in 1875 settled in Union County, S. D., northwest of Akron, residing there a number of years; but for the past thirty years Akron has been her home. In 1882 she was married to Lester Wakeman, who died February 17, 1908.

Mrs. Wakeman leaves two children by a former marriage, Hentry Hartung and Mrs. Jennie L. Waterbury, both of Akron, her son having made his home with her and cared for her during the past few years. One sistr, Mrs. Jane Waterbury, of this city, is also left to grieve. Besides, there are five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, as well as a host of friends left to mourn her departure.

She was a devoted wife and mother and a kind and helful friend and neighbor, whose many good deeds will long remain in the memory of family and acquaintances.

Grandma Wakeman, as she was affectionately called, had suffered for many years from rheumatism. In the house she had to use a cane to move about and when she went out anywhere had to use a wheelchair, yet withal she was cheerful and happy and took much pride in the beautiful plants and flowers she always had about her.

Sunday she appeared to be feeling better than for several days and moved about the house easier than usual. Upon retiring that night she seemed to be feeling all right, but on Monday morning it was found that instead of awakening she had passed peacefully into the long eternal sleep, and she now rests from her labors.

As a pioneer in a new country she had tasted of its vicissitudes, anxiety and privations. Long was her life and the joys and sorrows that are the heritage o mankind were also hers.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon in the Akron Baptist church, Rev. Carl Hammer conducting the services, which were attended by many old-time friends as a last tribute of respect. Interment in Riverside Cemetery.

Akron Register Tribune
Thursday, December 16, 1920
Akron, Iowa