Canny, William Elmer

CANNY

Posted By: Lorelei Rusco (email)
Date: 6/20/2011 at 11:31:07

Canny, Elmer –
Elmer Canny, son of Dan Canny, living southeast of Clearfield, was drowned while swimming in the pond last Friday afternoon between 3 and 4 o'clock. He had gone to the field after dinner to plow corn, and having become quite warm, thought he would go into the pond and cool off. Shortly after he entered the water he began to go down and so he called for help. The little Troxell boy who was with him ran to the Canny home where help was called, but by the time others had arrived on the scene the body had disappeared,which made it difficult to locate. Wayne Troxell then went into the water to help rescue Elmer and was so nearly overcome that others had to help get him out of the pond. After about an hours search the body was found, but all attempts at reviving proved useless. Such accidents as this are indeed sad, and the parents have the sincere sympathy of the entire neighborhood.
Funeral services were held from the home Sunday, June 24th, at 2 o'clock and interment was made in Clearfield Cemetery.
OBITUARY.
William Elmer Canny was born Feb. 2nd, 1902, and departed this life near his home June 22nd, 1917, his age being 15 years, 4 months and 20 days. A little more than 15 years ago he came to gladden the home of the fond parents, who with high hopes and aspirations looked forward to the time when their son should grow to manhood, and be a comfort and stay to them in their declining days. To the end that he might be well qualified for life's activities, they spared no efforts or expense, but with the fine spirit of solicitude and even sacrifice, they endeavored to give him all the privileges that would make for useful and good life. Thus he was constantly kept in school, and encouraged to every good endeavor. It seems strange that all this could be so suddenly cut short, but thus is life with its varied experiences. Unexpectedly and without warning the end came on last Friday afternoon, when Elmer was swimming in a lake. Death is always sad, but it is doubly sad, when it comes completely unlooked for.

Last October during a short series of services that the pastor held in the Highland Church, Elmer came forward and confessed his Savior.
It was his intention then to unite with the church, but owing to the distance from town and winter weather this was not consummated.

He leaves to mourn his untimely departure, his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Canny; two sisters, Lula and Lena; and besides these, many other relatives, and a host of sympathizing friends. The whole community is moved with heart-felt sympathy to the sorrowing family.
Clearfield Enterprise, Clearfield, Iowa, June 28, 1917