Sherman, Jason W. 1826-1891

SHERMAN, BLANCHARD, WHEELOCK, LOOK

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 1/23/2011 at 10:33:34

The Grinnell (IA) Herald; Aug. 25, 1891

OBITUARY

Jason W. Sherman was born Aug. 26, 1826, at Croydon, N.H. Died Aug. 21, 1891, at his residence near Chester Center, Iowa.

His early life was spent on a farm in New Hampshire, but in 1852, with his brother Newton and others, he went to California by way of the Isthmus, and engaged in mining. After two years he returned and married Miss Angenette C. Blanchard, with whom he came to Lyons, Iowa, in December, 1855. In August, 1856, he came to Chester, soon built a house, and during the following winter his was the only family in Chester township.

In his house the first religious service was held in the township, and ever since he has been generous and faithful in the support of the gospel. In 1863 Mrs. Sherman died, leaving an infant son. A little daughter had preceded her to the home above.

In 1864 Mr. Sherman married Miss Laura J. Wheelock, who survives him, with his children, Walter, Lulu, Edna and Myron, who have made his home the dearest place on earth for him.

In the early days Mr. Sherman was one of the first members of the board of supervisors, and has served his community often, in township offices, also as an officer in the church, always creditably and with fidelity, but all his life he was a farmer, much interested in stock-raising, and was a stockholder in the Chester Center creamery. He was public-spirited, gave liberally to Iowa College, for the support of the Congregational church, of which he was an honored member, and was ready to help in any good cause; was active and industrious, till in March, 1889, when he suffered a slight stroke of palsy since which time he has done but little work, though retaining a strong interest in all the affairs of the farm, community and state. He had been running his mower the morning of the day of his death, and was preparing to return to the field after dinner when the summons came, and suddenly, quietly, peacefully his life went out, in the presence of his wife and daughters.

The church and community will feel his loss seriously and will cherish his memory tenderly, for a good man has gone to his reward.

The funeral was held at his late residence, at 3 P.M., Sunday. A very large attendance of relatives and friends filled the house and yard. Among those present was Mrs. Look, from Harvey, and many friends from Grinnell. The services were conducted by his pastor, assisted by Prof. L.F. Parker and Rev. A.E. Everest. Beautiful flowers were bro't by many, attesting their regard for their friend and neighbor. The church and community will feel his loss greatly, as his interest was manifested in everything pertaining to their welfare. A very large procession followed the remains to the cemetery and witnessed the last services with evident sorrow. J.J.M.