Morris, J. F. - 1855-1936

MORRIS

Posted By: Linda Vander Linden - Volunteer (email)
Date: 3/2/2015 at 14:51:55

Hawarden Independent, May 14, 1936

The many friends of J. F. Morris of Pasadena, CA, received a severe shock when his death was announced, having passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Myrna Wynkoop in Pasadena Wednesday morning, May (?)Mr. Morris had gotten up the same as usual that morning and eaten a breakfast, fed the chickens and his other chores. He then returned to the house and read the morning paper, his daughter, who did not feel well, went to bed after she had served breakfast and when she returned to the room where her father was she found him slumped over in a chair. A physician was hurriedly called but nothing could be done and in a little more than an hour Mr. Morris had passed on. Mr. Morris went through a serious illness and operation a few years ago and at different times he was in a serious condition only to rally and his reserve strength and will carried him through.

Only two days before his death, Mr. & Mrs. John Chenhall bade him good-bye as they were returning to Ireton and at that time he seemed to be in his usual health. Mrs. Morris preceded him in death a few years ago and her going left a vacancy which undoubtedly shortened his life as they were always so devoted to each other.

J. F. Morris was born in LaPorte, Black Hawk County, IA, in the fall of 1855. He came to Sioux County in 1881 and purchased a farm southeast of Ireton, now the M.O. Simmons farm. It was here that he reared his family and it was here that the Morris family stood out as real neighbors and an asset to the community. He was ever ready to help those needing it and he had words of cheer and courage for the discouraged. Mr. Morris was early a firm believer in progress on the farm, especially in furthering good stock, horses, cattle, hogs and sheep. His honesty, integrity and leadership was recognized and he received recognition in places of trust by his fellowmen. He held township offices, school board offices and to climax all these he was sent to the state legislature as the representative of Sioux County and was re-elected. In all these positions Mr. Morris was true to his trust, true to himself and he came back with every confidence of his fellowmen firmly established and fully honored because of his stability and uprightness.

After selling hs farm, drawn by the sunny clime and beauty of California, having been preceded by near friends and neighbors, they moved to Pasadena where his home was been since. The years which Mr. Morris spent in California were not idly spent for there he loved and cared for his orchard, the flowers and poultry and these, with regards for his neighbors and friends, kept him active. He was always interested in the affairs of the community, county, state and nation and was outspoken in matters which he believed right and just as firm against what he thought was wrong. He leaves to sons and daughters and grandchildren a legacy which should be highly prized. He is survived by four sons Louis & Harry in North Dakota; Frank of Sioux City, and Bob of Los Angeles, CA and three daughters, Bessie of Pomona, CA; Irma of San Diego, CA and Myrna of Pasadena.