Duffus, Myrtle 1869-1968

DUFFUS, FARMER, SCHOALES

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 1/31/2010 at 10:43:36

The Montezuma Republican (Montezuma, Iowa) July 18, 1968

MONTEZUMA'S OLDEST CITIZEN, MYRTLE DUFFUS, DIES

As the county prepared to observe its 125th anniversary, Mrs. Myrtle Duffus, passed away Saturday, July 13, at her home. She had reached the age of 99 years and five months.

Services for Mrs. Duffus were conducted by the Rev. (Mar??neich) at the Steffy Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Monday. Miss Alice Underwood was the organist at the rites.

Casket bearers were Fred Zorn, W.C. Hall, Harold Swanson, C.E. Hender, Eldon Speas and Earl DeJong. Interment was in the Masonic IOOF Cemetery at Montezuma.

The daughter of Hannah and J.J. Farmer, she was born Feb. 9, 1869. She attended the Brooklyn Normal School and then taught school for several years.

On April 16, 1890, she was united in marriage to George Duffus.

Mrs. Duffus was a member of the United Presbyterian Church and of the Women's Society of the church. She served as president when the society was known as the Ladies Aid.

She was a charter member of the Poweshiek Rebekah Lodge of Malcom when it was organized in 1900. She later transferred her membership to the Vashi Rebekah Lodge No. 113 of Montezuma. She was a past Noble Grand of the lodge and received her 60-year jewel eight years ago.

In late years she has been cared for by her daughter and son-in-law, Leta and Louis Schoales. Mr. Duffus preceded her in death on April 10, 1950.

Survivors include Mr. and Mrs. Schoales, one niece, three nephews, other relatives and many friends.