Michael Renihan

RENIHAN

Posted By: Rebecca Foster (email)
Date: 8/31/2014 at 13:21:05

MICHAEL RENIHAN.

Yesterday morning at 8:30 o'clock Mr. Michael Renihan, one of Davenport's oldest and most respected citizens, breathed his last at his home at 649 East Thirteenth Street. Mr. Renihan's death was quite unexpected, as for the past few days he seemed to have a change for the better, so that hopes were entertained of his recovery. Late Friday night, however, his condition changed for the worse, and he grew constantly weaker until the hour of his death on Saturday morning. All the members of his family were with him in his last moments, and he retained consciousness until the end. His son, Richard, who had been pursuing his studies at St. Vincent's college, Cape Girardeau, Mo., was home for the Christmas holidays, so that thus the family circle by the bedside of the dying husband and father was complete. A severe attack of the grippe was the cause of death. He was confined to his bed only a little more than a week, so that the news of his demise came as a shock to his many friends who did not suspect the gravity of his illness.

Michael Renihan was born in Ireland in the County Tipperary in 1828. He came to New York City in 1852, and coming out west he settled in Davenport in 1851. Since then he has carried on an extensive contracting business with great success. In 1856 he was married to Ellen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Tobin, of Long Grove. Mr. Renihan had seven children, two of whom, Patrick and Richard, died years ago, and five of whom, Mary, Matthew, Rachel, James and Richard are left to mourn his loss, as also his wife, who survives the partner of her wedded life. The happiest day in Mr. Renihan's recent years was July 25, 1891, for on that day his son James was ordained a priest by Rt. Rev. Bishop Cosgrove, in St. Marguerite's Cathedral. Mr. Renihan's son was the first Davenport youth to enter the ranks of the priesthood and his declining years were doubtless gladdened by the knowledge.
Mr. Renihan has three surviving brothers, Matthew of this city, William and James in Ireland, and one sister, Mrs. John Halligan, of this city.

Those with whom Mr. Renihan carried on his business, covering a period of forty years, found him a true and tried, honorable and upright man. His death will cause sorrow to many, who knew his sterling qualities, and his strict performance of his duties to his family and his faith.

The funeral services will take place at Sacred Heart cathedral tomorrow (Monday) morning, where a Solemn High Mass will be said at 9 o'clock. Interment will be in St. Marguerite's cemetery.

Source: Davenport Daily Leader, Davenport, Ia., 03 Jan 1892.