William David Russell 1838 - 1910

RUSSELL, BOAG, ANDERSON

Posted By: William Russell Boag (email)
Date: 8/29/2007 at 16:41:21

IN MEMORIAM.William D. Russell As the ripened grain falls to the ground under the touch of the sickle, so one of our oldest and most respected citizens, W. D. Russell, fell into eternal sleep under the touch of the Great Reaper. The call came Friday after several weeks of illness brought on by a stroke of paralysis and the end came, bringing relief from much suffering.
William David Russell was born in Sussex Co., Delaware, December 8, 1838 and died at his home in Milton, Ia., June 17,1910. He was a boy of 8 years of age when his parents came to Milton, and here he remained the greater part of his life, receiving his education at the Troy academy, which was renowned in its day for splendid educational advantages. He graduated from the academy and later engaged in school teaching; while his occupation as teacher gave place to farming and still later to the merchant, in all of which he was successful, yet Mr Russell retained a keen interest in educational affairs and his influence was always on the side of advancement; along that line a friend and lover of young people, he endeavored by counsel to instill into their minds an ambition for the higher things in life. It was through his instrumentality the Milton schools were formed into an independant district.
He was an earnest advocate of the temperance cause and benevolent where any worthy cause needed assistance, whether in his church or any other.
He was converted when a young man, united with the M. E. church and throughout his whole life was a consistent christian and foremost in church work.
When the Presbyterian church was organized at this place he went in as a charter member, and has ever been one of its substantial supporters.
In 1861 he was married to Anna R. Anderson the faithful loving companion who is left with one grandson, Russell R. Boag [Robert Russell Boag - wrb]...(to?) mourn their loss; the only child and daughter, Wilma D. Russell Boag, having died ten years ago. Mr. Russell served his country as a soldier having enlisted in the army during the civil war [K Co., 15th Iowa Inft., 3rd Brig.,4th Div.,7th Army Corps. - wrb] and he was with Sherman in his march from Atlanta to the sea. He engaged in the merchantile business here for many years but on account of failing health a few years ago, sold his interest and retired from business.
The funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church Sunday June 19 conducted by Rev. Wood, assisted by the pastors of all the other denominations. The interment took place in Sunnyside Cemetery. Milton Herald June 22, 1910.
I am a direct descendant of William D. Russell and have a photocopy of this Milton Herald obituary. William Russell Boag.