Gerard, Isaac 1827-1902

GERARD, JOHNSON, DAVIDSON, RICHARDSON

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 8/1/2010 at 10:02:42

Obit. Files; Poweshiek Co. Iowa Hist./Gene. Society

OBITUARY

Isaac Gerard was born in Clinton Co., Ohio, February 13, 1827. He was married to Hannah P. Johnson, December 31, 1850. To this union was born eight children, four of whom are living, M.J. Gerard of Montezuma, L.W. Gerard of St. Paul, Minn., Mrs. Wesley Davidson, of Doyon, North Dakota and Mrs. William Richardson, of Cylinder, Iowa. In 1855 Mr. Gerard emigrated to Iowa, with his wife and two children. This was during the early settlement of the state and they made the journey overland with team and wagon experiencing all the hardships of pioneer life. Montezuma was in its infancy, there being but an embryo town here. He lived in town a short time and then bought land south of Montezuma. This farm has ever since been his home. Here he reared his family and from this home his wife preceded them to the better land, March 4, 1888.

One year ago he went to northern Iowa to visit his daughter. While there about three months ago he was taken ill with disease which developed into gangrene of the left limb. On April 14, his children brought him home hoping the change and other medical skill might result in his recovery to health. An operation was deemed necessary and on April 17, Dr. Vest amputated the diseased limb. He survived the operation but a few days, passing away, April 23.

Uncle Ike, as he was familiarly known, was one of the sturdy characters produced from pioneer days. He was strictly honest and just and during his life and long sickness kind and patient. He realized that his summons was near and was satisfied that all was well with him. He was a member of the M.P church of this place for many years and funeral services were held in the church for him April 25. Rev. Dameron conducted the services assisted by all the other ministers of the city. Mr. Gerard was one of the oldest of a family of fourteen children nine of whom are still living.
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Dr. Vest, assisted by Dr. Reynolds, of Malcom, amputated the left limb of Isaac Gerard Thursday. The foot was in a very bad condition and the patient was growing worse rapidly. It was hoped that amputation would bring about a healthy condition and the patient did rally nicely after the operation but his system was in poor condition to face such an ordeal and since Sunday he has been growing worse and there is now but little hope of his recovery.--Later:--Mr. Gerard died at 7 o'clock this morning.