Hartzell, Shirley Sisco 1866-1957

HARTZELL, SISCO, MCCAULLEY, COLE

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 5/13/2012 at 11:50:20

The Grinnell (IA) Herald-Register; Nov. 4, 1957

SHIRLEY SISCO HARTZELL

Shirley Elizabeth Sisco, daughter of Oliver and Rilla Sisco, was born Nov. 28, 1866, in Henry County, Ill. She was one of 11 children, all of whom preceded her in death, with the exception of one brother, Clarence.

When she was about three years of age, her family came to Iowa and settled near Newburg, northwest of Grinnell.

After attending the public schools for a time, it was necessary for her to remain at home and assist in the care of the family. She enjoyed re-telling many pioneer experiences on the prairie and with the Indians.

She was united in marriage to John Newton Hartzell, near Newburg, Iowa, Sept. 26, 1888, and they spent their entire married life in the Grinnell vicinity.

In 1920, Mr. and Mrs. Hartzell retired from the farm and moved to the family home, 1123 West St., Grinnell. Her husband preceded her in death Nov. 20, 1943. For the past eight years she had made her home with her daughter in University Park, Iowa.

On April 28, 1889, she united with the First Baptist church of Grinnell and took an active part in the life and witness of the church as long as health permitted. She remembered her church with letters and gifts, and always prayed for its work, to the end of her earthly life.

She loved her home and family and was always ready to lend a helping hand. A member of the Women's Relief Corps for many years, she also served as president of the organization.

About two weeks ago she suffered a stroke, and after a short illness passed away Oct. 27, 1957 at nearly 91 years of age.

She is survived by two daughters: Mrs. Homer (Mabel) McCaulley, University Park, Iowa, and Mrs. Clarence (Bernice) Cole, Des Moines; nine grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; one brother, Clarence of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.

Funeral services were held on Oct. 30, 1957, at the First Baptist church with the Rev. C.E. Kingsley officiating. Music was furnished by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Bohstedt. Pallbearers were Clair Strand, Leonard Newton, Laverne Raffety, Howard Hyde, William Greenwald, and Raymond Pilgrim. Burial was in Hazelwood cemetery.