Sturtz, Firman E. 1873-1892

STURTZ

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

Source: Iowa Index (5-20-1892)

Born: November 21, 1873
Died: May 18, 1892

A sad accident occurred near Rock Valley on Wednesday, it being a result of the heavy rain storm on Tuesday. The Rock River was swollen far beyond its banks, and those living adjacent the river were in danger of losing their lives, by the rising waters. On section 15-97-16, Ben Sweep is living , the house he occupies being on the bank and but a few yards from the main channel. The sudden rise of the waters prevented him from vacating in time to escape the danger that seemed to threaten him. Several of his neighbors viewing his precarious situation, undertook to rescue him; securing a boat, Charlie Loop in company with Herman Sturtz and father, started from a point about a half mile distant and vainly tried to baffle with the turbulent waves and relentless current; the boat becoming unmanageable capsized and Charlie Loop and Herman Sturtz met their fate.

No one deserves censure in attempts to rescue their fellow man; but in instances like the above, every person should carefully weigh the chances of success, and the necessity of making such hazardous attempts at rescue. From what we learn there was no immediate danger, as the water had not yet reached the house from the fact that it had been built on a point of land that insured the safety of the inmates unless another sudden rise should take place. The event has cast a shadow of gloom over the hearts of all who admire a courage that prompts men to risk their lives in order to save their fellows

The funeral services of Herman Sturtz, who was drowned near Rock Valley, Wednesday, will probably be conducted by Camp 214 S.V., of this place.

Quite a large delegation of Hull S. of V.’s and others purchased tickets at Milwaukee to go to Rock Valley to attend the funeral of Herman Sturtz, who was drowned last week, but owing to the train being two hours late only a few went down. An escort of Company E went however and reached the Valley just as the procession was filing out of Church, and in time to escort the remains to the cemetery.

Note: The newspaper says his name is Herman E. Sturtz and Find A Grave list it as Firman E. Sturtz.