Onken, John Dietrich 1850-1926

ONKEN, DIRCKS, DIRKS, ALRICHS

Posted By: Doris Hoffman, Volunteer (email)
Date: 11/24/2018 at 20:50:04

DEATH TAKES OLD SETTLER

JOHN ONKEN WAS SUCCESSFUL FARMER IN GRANT TOWNSHIP FOR MANY YEARS

John Dietrich Onken, a pioneer resident of Plymouth county, died at the home of his son-in-law, George Siebens, 135 Fourth Avenue SW, Tuesday night. He had suffered for some years from abdominal trouble although his last illness was brief.

Mr. Onken was born in Oldenburg, Germany, on November 20, 1850, where he attended school and grew to manhood. He came to America in 1870 near Dixon, Ill., and was married to Henrietta Dirks (or Dircks). Eight children were born to them six of whom are living, Onno and Fred, of Grant township, Mrs. Kate Siebens, of LeMars; Mrs. Mary Janloke, of Lake Crystal, Minn.; Mrs. Reinhold, Fischer; and Mrs. Leonard Schoenrock, of this vicinity. He also leaves a step-daughter, Mrs. Ben Reelfs, residing west of town.

Mr. Mrs. Dirks cameto Plymouth county in 1883 and settled in Grant township, where he farmed for many years. His wife died in 1889 and he subsequently married Anna Alrichs. His second wife met death in a runaway accident in 1915. There are also fourteen grandchildren.

Mr. Onken made his home in LeMars for the past twenty years and following the death of his wife lived with his children. He was member of St. John’s Lutheran church and held various offices in the church. He was a good citizen and enjoyed the respect of all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held this afternoon at St. John’s Lutheran church, Rev. J. J. Vollmar officiating. The remains will be taken to the Grant township cemetery where a brief service will be held by Rev. J. D. Meyer, pastor of Christ Lutheran church.

Le Mars Semi-Weekly Sentinel
Friday, July 23, 1926
Le Mars, Iowa