Leemkuil, George W. 1902-1931

LEEMKUIL, KLEINHEKSEL

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:32

Source: Alton Democrat (10-23-1931)

Born: February 22, 1902
Died: October 17, 1931

For some unexplained reasons, or in a moment of sudden aberration, George W. Leemkuil, aged 30, oldest son of John Leemkuil, well known farmer living a mile north of Philly, northeast of Hospers, took his own life by shooting himself in the head Saturday night.

His act came as a numbing jolt to the other members of the family and to the neighborhood and still cannot be explained in any way, except that he suddenly took leave of his senses. His dreadful deed was accomplished with a A10 gun, a single shot penetrating his brain.

The boys were together in the home Saturday evening. Before retiring George went outside. He did not return and the other boys became uneasy. He failed to answer their calls and when they discovered him his dead body on the ground in the pasture near the windmill.

George was the oldest of the family and was not married. Nothing can be remembered by any of those who talked to him within a day or two of his death that could be constructed as any hint of dissatisfaction with life. Friday he was cheerful and as jolly as ever.

His father has had more than his share of tragedy and troubles. Many years ago two of the smallest children were killed when the house was destroyed by a tornado. His wife, Derkje (Kleinheksel) Leemkuil died several years ago. Mr. Leemkuil lost a large sum through signing another’s note and later compelled to pay the note. The loss of his eldest son comes as a climax to many misfortunes and the heartfelt sympathy of all who knew them goes out to the stricken family.

Funeral services for George were held at the Philby Church Tuesday afternoon and were attended by a vast throng wishing to pay their last respects to the departed.