Arthur, William Pierce 1853-1932

ARTHUR, HUTCHINSON, WOLFORD, BAILEY, MOORE

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 2/9/2012 at 10:28:28

Obituary dated July 1, 1932

W.P. ARTHUR FUNERAL HELD
(From the Montezuma Republican)

William Pierce Arthur, son of Charles and Isabelle Arthur, was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, Feb. 2, 1853,, and departed this life at his home west of Montezuma, June 21, 1932, shortly after 7 o'clock p.m., at the age of 79 years, 4 months and 9 days.

Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home. Rev. E.W. Gregson had charge of the services. Pallbearers were Ray Hutchinson, S.J. Zorn, Mike Fayer, Carl Sheeler, H.A. Jones and A.C. Heath. Mrs. J. Lea Taylor and Mrs. C.W. Gorsuch sang favorite selections.

Mr. Arthur was a long time resident of this community and was beloved by all. He was a good citizen and his passing will be felt among his friends and neighbors. He took an active interest in politics.

Mr. Arthur came to Iowa when five years old with his parents and lived with them until a young man in this community. He was one of seven children, three of whom survive him, a brother, John Arthur in Canada, two sisters, Mrs. Robert Hutchinson of Oakland, Calif., and Mrs. Charles Wolford of Deep River.

He was united in marriage Jan. 11, 1888, at Grinnell to Miss Elma L. Bailey. To this union one daughter, Mrs. Roy A. Moore of Sioux Falls, S.D., was born.

Mr. Arthur attended Grinnell college for two years and later took a business course in Oswego, N.Y. He was a shorthand reporter in Des Moines for some time. He was employed in Grinnell by the firm known as Jordan & Stone, and later entered the mercantile business, the firm known as Mehlin & Arthur.

In 1898 he was elected county treasurer and served in this capacity until 1900, one term. At the time of his election he traded his interest in the mercantile business for the William Blaine farm west of Montezuma. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur had charge of the Poweshiek county home for eight years, 1900 to 1908. They then moved to the home farm, living there until 1917, moving to their present home at that time.

Mr. Arthur is survived by his beloved wife, his daughter and her five children, two sisters and one brother.