Kraft, John 1867-1928

KRAFT, BARD, EARNEST, ROSBERG, SEAVERS

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 4/21/2012 at 16:28:30

The Grinnell (IA) Herald; Feb. 3, 1928

Pioneer of Madison Dies at C'd'r Rapids

John Kraft, a pioneer resident of Madison township, Poweshiek county, whose home for thirty years or more was on a farm some seven miles south of Chelsea, died Tuesday at Mercy hospital, Cedar Rapids the result of burns he received while alone at his home. He had been in the hospital ten days prior to his death and from the day he entered, there was little hope of his recovery from his injuries.

The body was brought to Tama for burial. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at Harrison's mortuary, conducted by Dr. DeWitt Clinton. Music was furnished by Mrs. Carl B. Harrison, who sang to the piano accompaniment of Miss Lulu McCall. Burial was in Oak Hill cemetery, the services at the grave being in accordance with the Masonic ritual and conducted by members of that order.

John Kraft was born at Buchanan, Michigan, October 23, 1867, and died at the age of 60 years, 3 months and 1 day. In 1868, when he was one year old, his parents brought him to Iowa, the family locating at Brooklyn. In 1883 the family home was made on a farm in Madison township, seven miles south of Chelsea. Mr. Kraft was married to Miss May Bard December 26, 1897, in Madison township, and the couple made their home for thirty years on a farm in that township.

Mr. Kraft was a member of the Masonic fraternity, holding membership in the Chelsea lodge of that order.

He is survived by his wife and five children, the names of the latter being Mrs. Ellen Earnest, Ames; and Paul Kraft, Jerrine Kraft, Kenneth Kraft and James Kraft. He also leaves a grandson, Marion Earnest, and other relatives, among them the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Maggie Rosberg, Galt; Mrs. Madie Seavers, Cedar Rapids; George Kraft, Dows; and Elmer Kraft, Clarion.--Tama News-Herald.