Lain, Ella Wheeler 1860-1952

LAIN, WHEELER, DEMPSTER, DAHL, GORDON

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes
Date: 10/21/2016 at 19:08:22

The Grinnell (IA) Herald-Register
Feb. 1952

MRS. ELLA WHEELER
LAIN DIED FRIDAY;
FUNERAL HELD TODAY

Mrs. Ella Wheeler Lain was born in Sylvester county, Wis., March 10, 1860 the daughter of Nelson and Melvina Wheeler, who came in the early 60s as pioneer settlers to Altoona. She received her education in the Altoona schools and on April 15, 1878 she was united in marriage with Horton Burt Lain. To this union five were born, three of whom died in infancy.

In the fall of 1888 the family moved to Grinnell, where Mr. Lain became operator at the Rock Island freight office.

Mrs. Lain was a life long member of the Methodist church, beginning her active participation when a young girl. She was the first organist of the Methodist church in Altoona. At that time the organ was carried from her home to the church.

On coming to Grinnell she joined the Methodist church and was a faithful member until the infirmities of old age made it impossible for her to attend.

During her active years she had been a Sunday school teacher, had been president of both Home and Foreign Missionary Societies, active in Farm Bureau work at one time and had also devoted much time to Red Cross work.

Mrs. Lain was a devoted mother and a loyal friend, ever ready to help those less fortunate than she.

After a long and fruitful life she passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Roscoe Dempster on Friday evening, Feb. 3, 1952 at the age of 91 years.

Mr. Lain preceded her in death August 30, 1923.

She is survived by her son, D.P. Lain of Los Angeles, Mrs. Roscoe Dempster of Grinnell, two grand daughters, Mrs. J.E. Dahl of Indianola and Mrs. Harold Gordon of Los Angeles, five great grand children and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services at the Methodist church this afternoon were conducted by Rev. A.H. Barker, pastor of Trinity Methodist church in Des Moines, assisted by Rev. W.F. Overhulser. Rev. Mr. Barker, who was a boy in Grinnell had been a member of Mrs. Lain's Sunday school class. Mrs. Dolph Miller, accompanied by Mrs. Rhee Auman, provided the music. Pall bearers were Edwin Pedersen, Worth Belden, Paul Wilson, Eldon Olds, H.W. Scott and M.L. Powers. Interment was in Hazelwood cemetery.