Lewis Bonnett 1824-1890

BONNETT

Posted By: Richard K. Thompson (email)
Date: 1/1/2010 at 11:18:21

The following obituary was found in the microfilm records on hand at the Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, Iowa by this contributor on December 29, 2009. It is transcribed verbatim (caps added for emphasis by this contributor):

Birmingham Enterprise
January 1, 1891
Pg. 3 Col. 8

"Lewis BONNETT was born in Virginia, 1823. Had he lived to the 12th of next month, he would have been 67 years old.

He was married 43 years ago to his present wife, and at once moved to the farm which he took up, and on which he died. He was converted to God about 45 years ago, and united with the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he was a faithful and useful member until death. He was the father of ten children. Six have preceded him to the better land, and four remain here with his beloved wife, all well provided for. It may be truly said of him that he was a man diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. He was wonderfully successful in business life as a farmer, and was equally as zealous in religious life. He has lived and died well. Peace to his ashes.

The funeral occurred Sunday at 2 p.m. from the residence two miles east of town, Rev. Ferguson conducting the services. His remains were buried beside those of his children who had preceded him, in the Smith cemetery, a large concourse of relatives and friends attending and showing their sorrow and sympathy for the family.

For the past two years it has been a common remark that Lewis BONNETT was failing rapidly, and he was aware that his health and strength were giving away. Recently he received a fall which injured his back and spine, and from that day he was confined to his bed. He quietly passed away Saturday morning about 7 o'clock, surrounded by all the members of the family.

He was a good citizen, a kind and indulgent husband and father, and was respected by all."

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Son of Lewis and Mary Bonnett.

Note: The obituary uses the birth year of 1823. However, the headstone and most other Bonnett sources use 1824 as the proper birth year. Will use 1824 for this entry, but with the caution about the obituary date provided. Be aware of the discrepancies.

Married Amanda Parsons January 20, 1848 in Jefferson County, Iowa.

Buried at Smith Cemetery, Birmingham, Van Buren County, Iowa. Died December 27, 1890.