Nels Runneberg !859-1926

RUNNEBERG SWENSON

Posted By: Chuck Runneberg (email)
Date: 6/17/2007 at 23:39:43

Laurens Sun, August, 1926

Nels Runneberg, An Early Settler, Dies

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Another of our forward-looking pioneers has "finished his course." In more than thirty-three years this community and especially his home neighborhood northeast of town, has learned to appreciate the fine spirit of helpfulness and ready service and to value highly the sturdy character of Mr. Runneberg. He was of a splendidly rugged pioneer type, always had a cheerful greeting for everyone and because of his long residence here was known and esteemed far and wide.

Born in Solvesborg Sweden on September 29, 1859, he came to Paxton, Illinois. Having been baptized in the State Church of Sweden in infancy he was confirmed during his residence in Paxton in the Swedish Lutheran Church and remained for his whole life time in that communion. He died in the hospital at Emmetsburg, on Friday, August 13, 1926.

In 1893 he came to this community with his brother Mr. Andrew Runneberg and has since then been continuously a resident here. At that time but few farms were opened up between the Runneberg home and Laurens. Settlers drove cross country for there were few roads. Mr Runneberg has seen and played his part in all the development of this portion of the county.

In 1900 0n September 5th at Bridgeport, Kansas he wedded Miss Alma Swenson who now bravely faces life through bereft of her loving husband. Two daughters of their household, Florence who died in 1913 and Petunia who died in 1917 had preceded the father in death. Arnold, Lawrence, Carl, Emmett, and Alice are the surviving children.

One sister, Mrs Emma Anderson of Halfa, Iowa and three brothers, Mr.Andrew Runneberg of Havelock, Iowa, Mr Swan Runneberg of Crosby, Texas and Mr. Louis Runneberg of Paxton, Illinois survive.

The funeral services were held at 2:30 P.M. on Monday, August 16, at the Methodist Episcopal Church, in charge of the pastor, Rev. W.A. WinterStein. Burial in the Laurens cemetery