John M. Tanner (ca. 1839-1894)

TANNER

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 4/23/2011 at 17:00:32

From Story County Watchman February 16, 1894

EXPLODED.--Thursday morning the engive in the elevator at Kelley exploded carrying death and destruction in every direction. The building was badly wrecked and John M. Tanner, an honored and esteemed resident of the place blown to pieces, our informant saying literally into fragments. Mr. Sill was badly hurt. The accident has cast a deep gloom over the little place and everybody in astounded.

Mr. Tanner was an old resident of the place and highly esteemed by all. He served in the rebellion was in Co. B 2nd Iowa cavalry with honor and distinction and was one who never shirked a duty. Ye local knew him well at the time and since residing in Story County has been as intimate as with any other person outside our daily walk. He was postmaster four years under the first Cleveland administration and the same position was tendered to him only a few weeks since but he refused saying that there were plenty of younger men who should have the place. He leaves a wife and grown up family to mourn his untimely taking off. With sorrow it is that we chronicle the fact of his death, not only as an old comrade in arms but as a true, tried and trusty citizen of Story County, and one to whom his neighbors delighted to do honor. May he now rest in peace waiting for the resurrection.