Homan, John Sr. 1853-1928

HOMAN, HOFFMAN, STREFF

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 6/17/2017 at 13:00:18

Source: Alton Democrat (8-10-1928)

Born: October 19, 1853
Died: 1928

JOHN HOMAN SR. CAME TO THE ALTON VICINITY IN 1881--WAS A RESPECTED CITIZEN

John Homan, Sr. pioneer resident of Alton, passed away at his home Saturday afternoon at one o’clock. Heart trouble was the immediate cause of his death, though he had been confined to his home with diabetes for about two years. He was nearly 75 years of age.

Mr. Homan was born at St. Donatus, Iowa to Mr. John and Magdalena (Streff) Homan on October 19, 1853. In the late ‘70s he came to Sioux County, buying a farm five miles south of Alton. He was married February 22nd, 1881at Le Mars to Miss Louisa Hoffman. Eight children were born to the union, the first child having died in infancy. He is survived by Mrs. Homan and seven children, namely, Joe H. of Alton; Frank P. of Mandan, North Dakota; Mrs. Joe Mousel of Alton; Ben of Bismark, North Dakota; Charles A. of Remsen; Hildegard and Sylvia at home. Mrs. Homan was the last surviving member of a family of thirteen children. The late Mrs. J.P. Portz of St. Cloud, Minnesota, who passed away a few years ago, was his last surviving sister. The family lived on the farm south of town for twelve years, but moved to town 35 years ago. Even at that time Mr. Homan’s health was not good, his condition having been partly the result of an accident when a young man.

Mr. Homan was a member of St. Joseph’s society and was a member of St. Mary’s Choir for 29 years. He was a kindly man, patient under a heavy burden of physical suffering which he endured without complaint for many years, and devoted to his family and friends, a very large number of whom were present at the funeral services Tuesday, many coming long distances to honor his memory.

Solemn Requiem Mass was held at St. Mary’s Church Tuesday morning, Reverend Father Housmann was assisted in the services by Reverend Oken of Granville, Reverend Pick of Templeton and Reverend Homan of Hazelton, who was master of ceremonies. Very Reverend Brune and Father Homan completed the services at the St. Mary’s Cemetery. Old time friends were pallbearers namely Matt Herrig, Fred Mousel, Nick Croat, Jacob Klein, B. Kettler and Matt Kellen.