Phelan, Katherine (Mrs. Robert or John), 1851-1929

PHELAN, MCCANN, SMITH

Posted By: Lydia Lucas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:36

From the Rock Valley Bee, January 11, 1929:

MRS. CATHERINE PHELEN

Mrs. Catherine Phelan was born in Kemptville, Ontario, Canada, in the year 1851. At the age of fourteen years, she came to Cresco, Howard county, Iowa, and five years later was united in marriage with Robert Phelen. She lived practically all her life in Cresco, excepting two years spent in Texas. Eight years ago her husband died and she came to Rock Valley to live with her niece, Mrs. P. J. Rielly.

She has all her life been a sufferer from asthma, but was able to be around until a week ago, when she took pleurisy which proved fatal. She passed away quietly Sunday afternoon. Services were held in St. Mary’s church Tuesday morning, Rev. Father O’Rielly officiating. The remains, accompanied by J. L. Higgins, were taken to Cresco for burial. She is survived by one sister in Ontario, Canada.

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Her death certificate has her as Katherine Phelan, widow of John Phelan; born July 21, 1851 in Ontario, Canada; parents Hugh McCann and Katherine Smith; informant Mrs. Pat Rielly, Rock Valley; died January 6, 1929 of broncho pneumonia, duration 2 days; contributory cause, flu – bronchial asthma.