John Burham (1837-1913)

BURHAM, HALE, BROTHERS, DAUGHTEN

Posted By: Nancee (McMurtrey) Seifert (email)
Date: 10/28/2009 at 10:30:12

Decatur County Journal
Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June 20, 1912

Death has again thinned the ranks of the Iowa pioneers and veterans of the great Civil War, in removing from us JOHN BURHAM, who passed away at his home in Grand River, June 5, 1912, at the age of 74 years, 7 months and 23 days. Deceased was born in Lancaster, Ohio, Oct. 12, 1837. When he was ten years old he came with his parents to the then newly formed State of Iowa, settling in Cedar County. After residing there for some time, the family moved to Story County, where JOHN grew to manhood, heeding his country's call for volunteers, in the great struggle for its preservation, he enlisted in 1862 in the 32d Iowa, and served with honor for three years and twelve days, until the close of the war. While he was absent, the family had moved to Clarke County, where he returned after being mustered out of service.

In 1867, Mr. BURHAM was united in marriage to LAURA HALE. To this union five children were born, four of whom survive. One son, GEORGE, died in 1910. Two sons and two daughters, JESSE and HALLIE BURHAM and Mrs. J.C. BROTHERS, of Grand River, and Mrs. WM. DAUGHTEN, of Beaconsfield, together with the wife were with the father and husband during his last sickness and remain to mourn his departure. Besides these he leaves many other relatives and a host of friends.

In 1884 Mr. BURHAM moved from Clarke County to Grand River where he resided until his death. For a number of years he has taken an active part in the affairs of the town and community and was elected to various offices by his fellow townsmen. In 1868 he became a member of the Masonic Lodge and for over forty years was an esteemed active member, loved by his brethren who showed their appreciation of him by giving him the highest honors possible to bestow He was also an active member of the G.A.R. Post until age and decreasing members made it impossible for that organization to continue. In 1910 he became a Christian and united with the Christian Church in Grand River. He showed his faith by uprightness and integrity of character and a perfect trust in the wisdom of God, and expressed his willingness to depart this life at any time.

Mr. BURHAM was an exemplary citizen, kind and affectionate husband, a loving father, and leaves behind the fragrant memory of a life well lived.

The funeral service was held in the Christian Church at Grand River, Thursday morning at 11 o'clock, June 6, conducted by Rev. J.S. Coffin, pastor of the Leon Christian Church. The remains were laid to rest in the Young Cemetery just east of Grand River, and the closing service was given by the Masonic Order. A long procession of friends followed the remains to their last resting place.