Eason, Stephen 1849-1935

EASON, POOLE

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 9/26/2016 at 17:29:57

Source: Alton Democrat (9-6-1935)

Born: January 3, 1849
Died: September 1, 1935

Stephen Eason, veteran Alton homesteader and pioneer, died at his home here at 3:15 o’clock Sunday morning at the age of nearly 87 years. Sturdy and independent to the last, he was about town until a few weeks before his passing, and was confined to bed for only four days.

Stephen Eason was born in Marden, Kent, England January 3, 1849, and died September 1, at the age of eighty-six years, seven months and twenty-eight days.

He came to America with his brother John in 1870. Stephen went to Michigan for a year and was engaged in carpenter work there. His brother John came on to Sioux County and homestead.

After a year in Michigan, Stephen came to Le Mars and shortly afterwards took a homestead on land next to his brother’s farm. In 1877 he married Mary Poole and to this union one child, James was born. James died at the age of 15 years. Mrs. Eason died in 1880.

In 1882 Stephen married Susan Poole, a sister of his first wife. To this union eleven children were born, as follows: Mary, Mrs. Clarence Jackson, who died in 1900; Stephen, who died in 1912; George of Alton; Oscar who lives on the homestead; John of Sanborn; Ernest of San Diego, California; Hilda, Mrs. Bart Van Zyl, of Cleero, Illinois; Emilia, Mrs. John Koppenol, of Pine Ridge, Kentucky; Alvin of Luverne; Zelia, Mrs. Harry Delong of Orange City; and Fred of Alton. There are twenty-five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Mr. Eason followed his trade of carpentry. All of their children were educated in the local public school and several went on to higher institutions, two of the sons being dentists and all of the four daughters having been school teachers before their marriage.

He lived a full and active life, continuing his carpentry practically up to his 80th year, exemplifying in highest degree industry, thrift and honesty. Some years ago he returned to his native land for a visit. Although handicapped in late years by deafness, he enjoyed reading and took great interest in national and local affairs. In his last illness, his great desire was not to be a burden to his devoted wife and family. The oldest living daughter, Mrs. Bart Van Zyl of Chicago, has been with her parents the past month. Ernest and son Ted arrived by car from San Diego Saturday, Mrs. Koppenol from Pine Ridge, Kentucky on Monday.

Funeral services at the home and Presbyterian Church were held Wednesday afternoon, Reverend George Bray of Sulphur Springs officiating. The six sons were pall bears, Music was furnished by a ladies quartet.