Greattrax, John Henry Dr. 1837-1905

GREATTRAX, HOLLEY, GRISWOLD

Posted By: Wilma J. Vande Berg - volunteer (email)
Date: 7/13/2013 at 16:46:17

Up until two years ago he was a resident of Boyden Iowa, obit from the

Spirit Lake Beacon - February 17, 1905

Died - GREATTEAX

In Spirit Lake, February 14, of bronchitis, Dr. John Henry Greattrax, aged 67 years. Dr. Greattrax was born in Berkshire county, Massachusetts. When a child he came with his parents to Illinois and in 1863 the family came to Grand Mound, Iowa.

In 1861 the young man inlisted in the 7tn Missouri cavalry,serving more than three years and participating in the active service of the civil war. The Doctor and his father were early settlers in Sionx county where the former took a homestead and improved the same. He had taken up the study of medicine after the war and practiced while he farmed until the requirements of his profession caused him to locate in the town of Boyden where he waa professionally prominent for years.

In 1883 he was married to Mrs. Julia A. Snell of Sioux county, who with Miss Buelah and
Belle are deeply bereft by this sad event. Dr. Greattrax and family came to Spirit Lake about three years ago. Doctors have been numerous in this community, but in his quiet, efficient way this doctor grew into a good practice and was much trusted professionally. As a citizen he has been irreproachable and as a neighbor very highly esteemed.

About a month ago in a professional drive to Okoboji and then to Superior on a bitter cold day he was seriously chilled and this was the beginning of the end. In his quiet incomplaining way he witnessed the approach of death. His attendants say there never was a more appreciative sufferer or more serene and patient traveler near "that bourne from which no traveler returns." His devoted family did all that love could suggest or self sacrifice could effect, and now deeply mourn the loss of the light and strength of a home where happines has had permanent abiding place.

Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon. The Methodist pastor preached at the church. Twilight lodge A. F. & A. M. of which the deceased was an esteemed member turned out in force and gave burial with the impressive rites of the order.