Frantzen, Peter 1848-1935

FRANTZEN, STEICHEN

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 12/8/2016 at 23:12:57

Source: Alton Democrat (4-12-1935)

Birth: February 14, 1848
Death: April 9, 1935

Peter Frantzen -- Nassau township pioneer, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning at his home south of Alton. Born February 14, 1848, in Germany, he came to this country with his parents at the age of 12. The family settled near Dubuque. With his brothers Nic. and Henry, Mr. Frantzen came to Sioux County in 1871 and the brothers homesteaded on section 26, Nassau township, Peter, however, was the only one of the brothers that remained at that location. He had made his home on the original homestead during the past 64 years, a remarkable record.

Of a family of five boys and one girl, he was the only one surviving, the four brothers and one sister having preceded him in death many years. Mrs. Math. Streff, mother of the Streff brothers of this vicinity, was his sister. His brother Henry, who located at Hospers, died at the Frantzen home here. His brother Math. taught school here in the early days and died here. Nick and John farmed the home place near Dubuque. Seven children survived there parents, all respected citizens, as follows: Susan, Mrs. Frank Ginsbach, Dell Rapids, South Dakota; Sister Fidelia, Oyens; Christine, Mrs. Carl Baune, Alton; Rose, Mrs. John Fisch, Marshalltown, Iowa; Joe Frantzen, New Hampton, Iowa; Nic. Frantzen, Dell Rapids, South Dakota; and P.A. Frantzen, on the home farm here. One other child, Margaret, died in 1905.

Mr. Frantzen married Catherine Steichen in November 1871, the ceremony being solemnized at Le Mars. They suffered all the hardships of pioneer days, of course, but had the grit to see it through, grasshoppers scourges and all, and both lived to celebrate the golden wedding anniversary in 1921. Mrs. Frantzen passed away in 1925. Sister Fidelia of Oyens and P.A. Frantzen were present when their father quietly passed away.

Solemn Requiem High Mass was held this Thursday morning at St. Mary's Catholic Church at Alton at 9 o'clock, with Very Reverend M.A. Schemel, the pastor; Reverend Schumacher of Le Mars, Reverend Henry Pick of Sutherland, and Reverend Rolfes of Oyens, officiating.

A remarkably efficient farmer, possessing much common sense, long vision and good judgment, Mr. Frantzen was one of the splendid pioneers who laid the foundation for what this great country later became. Conservative, honest, a staunch friend, his loving family feels his loss keenly, as do a host of loyal friend.