Gerlemann, John A. Rev.Father 1859-1916

GERLEMANN

Posted By: Wilma J. Vande Berg (email)
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:36

Alton Democrat of Oct 17, 1916

Rites For Father Gerlemann Today at St. Joseph Church

Rev.. John A. Gerlemann, for many years pastor of St. Joseph's church at Granville died Tuesday morning at the age of 87 in the Sacred Heart hospital at LeMars, where he was taken, critically ill, Saturday.

Father Gerlemann was born May 25, 1859, in St. Lucas, Iowa, and took his course in philosophy in Loras College, Dubuque, and his theological course in the Grand Seminary at Montreal, Que. He was ordained July 14, 1884 in Dubuque. For 16 years he was pastor of St. Boniface Catholic church in Sioux City and was then assigned to the Granville pastorate. He retired July 1, 1940, due
to failing health.

Father Gerlemann was a pastor of the old school, devoted to his duties, jealous of his flock and consecrated to his church. The number of baptisms he has made and marriages he has performed runs up into the thou sands. His hobby was cabinet making and in his spare hours he made many beautiful inlaid tables, chess and checker boards and other fine craftsmanship in which his attention to detail was remarkable. All these he gave away and many couples whom he married have treasured examples of his workmanship.

Funeral services were held Thursday morning at St. Joseph’s church. Granville with interment in the cemetery at the parish which he served so long and faithfully.