William Otto Smeltzer (ca. 1875-1897)

SCHMELTZER, SMELTZER

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 9/4/2011 at 12:30:42

From Story County Watchman September 10, 1897

Maxwell.

Wm. O. Smeltzer, son of J. B. Smeltzer*, late postmaster here, died on Sabbath, Sept. 5, after a severe illness of more than two weeks, in the 22d year of his age. He was deputy P. M. under his father here until the office was turned over to the present incumbent, Mr. Hardenbrook. He then went to Thompson, Ill., to complete his education in telegraphy, his health failed and he had to return home. He grew rapidly worse until death came. The disease was really consumption of the bowels. Will was born at Freeport, Ill., but grew up in Iowa, most of the time in Maxwell. The family resided in Nevada for a time. Will had many friends in and about Maxwell. He had a large acquaintance among the people, having been in the postoffice so long. Rev. Ferguson conducted the funeral service at 4 p. m. on Monday at the house assisted ty Revs. McVicker, Bently and Lint, after which Mr. and Mrs. S. left on a train with the remains for Dakota, Ill., where the interment will take place in the family plot. Much sympathy is felt for Mr. and Mrs. S. as Will was their only living child.

SUBMITTER'S NOTE: This should be T. B. Smeltzer. Thomas B. Smeltzer (also known as Thomas B. Schmeltzer in Illinois) had been postmaster.