ECKLUND, Olaf Frederick 1843 – 1926

ECKLUND, BOMAN, SHINE, NELANDER

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler, Volunteer (email)
Date: 4/12/2013 at 07:34:53

Olaf Frederick Ecklund, or Frank as he was commonly known, was born in Westerjotland, Sweden, April 3, 1843, and departed this life at his home July 22, 1926, at the age of 83 years, 3 months and 19 days.

While in Sweden he became a member of the Lutheran church, of which church he remained a member until his death.

In his young manhood he learned the tinsmith trade, which together with the hardware business he followed all his life.

He emigrated to America in 1866, landing in this country on July 4. For a number of years he resided near Topeka, Kansas, then he moved to Moline, Ill., where he established himself in business.

Mr. Ecklund was united in marriage to Hilda G. Boman, July 31, 1875. To this union were born six children, Esther who died in infancy, Oscar F. of Chicago, Joseph E. of Union, Iowa, Edwin O. of Hemet, California, Mrs. Mable Shine and Clarence C. of Brooklyn, Iowa. These together with his wife and only sister, Mrs. Eleanora Nelander of Benedict, N. Dak., and eight grandchildren survive him.

In 1887 the family moved to Brooklyn, where they lived until his death.

Mr. Ecklund was an honored and respected citizen of this community. He concerned himself mostly with his business and his personal affairs. He took great pride in his work. Indeed his trade and his home were the center of his interest. How he loved the children who were the subject of his thought continually. Brooklyn has lost a good citizen and the sincere sympathy of a host of friends goes out to the bereaved wife and children in this time of sorrow.

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the Methodist Church, Rev. W. J. Fowler delivering the sermon. A quartette composed of Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Jones, Mrs. C. W. Fowler and Leo Shuler supplied appropriate musical numbers. A friend, Mr. Huff of Newton, also sang “Crossing the Bar.” Mrs. C. H. Manatt was at the organ. Burial was at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery.

Most of the places of business of the town closed during the hours of the services out of respect for a former business associate.

Pallbearers were Ed Griev, Tom Hammell, E. L. Hall, Gus Carlson, W. L. Johnson, and John Carlson.

Source: Unknown newspaper clipping found in scrapbook belonging to my great grandmother.