Barr, R.A. 1838-1920

BARR, SLOCUM

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 8/10/2012 at 11:06:10

The Grinnell (IA) Herald; March 5, 1920

ARMY VETERAN PASSES
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R.A. Barr Dies at His Home on Third Avenue Yesterday Forenoon.
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FUNERAL AT CHURCH AT ELEVEN TODAY
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Was a Grand Old Veteran of Character and Influence in the Community.
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It is with deep regret that his many Grinnell friends learn of the death yesterday forenoon of R.A. Barr, one of the men whom everybody liked. Mr. Barr had lived here since 1903, and in those years he had made many warm friends who loved him for his sunny, genial manner and sterling upright character.

Mr. Barr was born in western Pennsylvania, July 6, 1838, and so at his death was 81 years and 8 months old. He came to Iowa in Fayette county in 1856 and located on a farm which he owned for over thirty years. In the early days of the war he went to Illinois to care for his father who was in failing health, and immediately after his father's death he enlisted in the 127th Ill. Inf., serving till the close of the war.

Mr. Barr saw plenty of service in the war, and was with Sherman in the "March to the Sea."

After his discharge the soldier returned to his home in Fayette county and here, September 14, 1865, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Slocum, the estimable lady who with one son, Wm. F. Barr, of Omaha, survives him.

In 1891 Mr. Barr moved to Britt, Iowa, staying there till 1903, since which time he and Mrs. Barr have lived here. His son, Will, taught for a few years in Grinnell College, and is a successful and leading chemist in the employ of the Union Pacific System.

About three years ago Mr. and Mrs. Barr took a trip to California, remaining two years and enjoying themselves greatly in the land of sunshine and roses, completing their stay by attending the National Grand Army encampment at Portland, Ore., last summer.

December 27, 1919, Mr. Barr submitted to an operation, believed at the time to be of a minor character, but has steadily, though slowly, weakened since until his death yesterday.

A short funeral service was held this morning at 11 o'clock at the Congregational church conducted by Rev. E.W. Cross. Mrs. Barr and son, Will, left with the body at 12:17 today for Hawkeye, Iowa, from which point the body will be taken to the home burial-ground about six miles distant, for interment.

Mr. Barr was an enthusiastic member of Gordon Granger Post, of which Post he had served as commander, and as everywhere he was loved for his untiring high character and genial disposition. He was also a member of the Modern Woodmen and until his trip to California a member of the Knights of Pythias. At that time he took a withdrawal card, intending to be restored to membership on his return, but growing age made him think it best not to ask for reinstatement.

September 14, 1915, Mr. and Mrs. Barr celebrated their golden wedding here in Grinnell and received many warm congratulations on the happy event.

In the circle of his acquaintance few men will be mourned more deeply than Mr. Barr. With his wife, who has always been of the same cheerful and sunny disposition, he has given cheer and comfort to others. Few men have given more. He has made for himself a place in Grinnell and the Herald joins with so many others in expressing our sincere sorrow at his death.