Whalen, John Ray 1878-1924

WHALEN, SHERMAN, WELLS

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke-volunteer
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:34

Source: Hawarden Independent (8-7-1924)

Born: July 11, 1878
Died: August 2, 1924

JOHN RAY WHALEN DIES SUDDENLY--CORONERS JURY FIND DEATH DUE TO ALCOHOLISM

WAS 45 YEARS OF AGE AND FOR SEVERAL YEARS WAS EMPLOYED IN THE GLADSTONE HOTEL HERE

John Ray, for several years employed as a clerk in the Gladstone Hotel in this city, was found dead at the City Hall between 6 and 7 o’clock Saturday morning by Marshal Mike Conway. He had been drinking heavily for several days and about mid-night was removed from his room at the hotel by Night Marshal Chris Nelson and given a bed at the City Hall in order that he might be kept under closer observation. Before going off duty about 5 o’clock Saturday morning Night Marshal Nelson talked with him and gave him a drink of water. He seemed to be all right at that time. But when Marshal Conway visited the City Hall between 6 and 7 o’clock he found him lying on the floor face downward and apparently lifeless. A physician was hastily summoned but no spark of life remained. The body was removed to Bray’s undertaking parlors and Coroner William Duven of Orange City was notified. An inquest was held and the coroner’s jury, compose of L.M. Wass, G.F. Burket and Fred Vernon, rendered a verdict that his death was due to “alcoholism”

The remains were conveyed to his old home at Ireton, where funeral services were held at 2 o’clock Monday afternoon at the Methodist Church, conducted by Reverend W.A. WinterStein, pastor of the Methodist Church in Hawarden. The funeral was largely attended.

Ray Whalen was born on a farm near Ireton July 11, 1878 and died August 2, 1924, so was just past 45 years of age. Almost his entire life was spent in this vicinity of Ireton. His father died when he was a small boy and his mother, Mattie Sherman Whalen Wells passed away about four years ago. During the past three or four years he was employed the greater part of the time as a clerk in the Gladstone Hotel here. Prior he worked as a clerk in Ireton business houses and on farms in that vicinity.

He was a hard worker, always exhibited the utmost courtesy toward the public and was thoroughly trust-worthy. His hustling qualities and tactful manner won for him the admiration of his employers and there was always a position open for him. His friends were legion for he never gave offense in any way.

He is survived by one brother, Herbert Whalen of Oakland, California ; three half brothers and one half sister. Clark Wells, Frank G. and Earl S. Wells of Ireton and Mrs. Mary Nanninga of Ireton.