John A. Miller 1831-1916

MILLER, CRAIG, HARTZELL, GILLESPIE

Posted By: Volunteer - Rich Lowe
Date: 10/1/2001 at 14:23:15

GOOD CITIZEN CALLED AWAY
John A. Miller of this place formerly one of the best known citizens of Van Buren County passed away at 11:30 o'clock Wednesday night after an illness of two or three weeks.

Mr. Miller was born December the 12th, 1831 in Perry County, Ohio being agd 84 years and 25 days. In the spring of 1847 he came with his mother to Keosauqua. Six years later he engaged in the drug business with Dr. Craig. In 1859 he was appointed deputy clerk of the district court and was later elected clerk of the court for three successive terms. He afterwards served as deputy auditor for a number of years his brother Henry Miller being deputy treasurer at the same time. Mr. Miller was an excellent official the records of his office while he was clerk being the finest we ever saw the writing being like copper plate.

At the time and long after Mr. Miller was one of the most prominent men in the county. All of his public service was of the highest order of excellence and he was held in the highest esteem by everybody as he has ever since his retirement to private life.

October the 23 1856 Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss. Amanda J. Hartzell and their home was always one of the popular social and musical centers of our city. Six children were born to them; Mate, George, Craig Maude Paul, and Edwin. Mrs. Miller passed away a number of years ago and Craig and Mrs. Maude Manning are the only living children. Three sisters survive him however. Mrs. James Gillespie and Miss Hattie Miller of Memphis Mo and Mrs. John P. Craig of Joplin Mo. Miss Hattie Miller was present when death came.

Mr. Miller was almost the last of the early settlers here. Having a retentive memory he was an authority and consulted as such on public matters during the most interesting and important period of our country's history.

The funeral service was held at the late residence on Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The Masonic order had charge of the services.

[faded handwritten note on obit. appears to read Jan. 12 1916]

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I am NOT related and am posting this obit for those who may find this person in their family history.