BROWN, George W.: 1848-1908

BROWN, SMITH, CRANDALL, PRICE

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 5/14/2013 at 16:12:51

George W. Brown was born near Bonaparte Feb. 3, 1848, the youngest son of Alfonzo and Luthena Brown, being one of a family of seven children, four boys and three girls.

He grew to manhood here and married Miss Maria Smith of Bentonsport on Jan. 26th, 1871 and to this union one son was born, Seth, who was killed by the cars at Eldon a couple of years ago.

Mr. Brown had spent the greater part of his life of usefulness in Bonaparte, and for nineteen years alone he was employed by Meek Bros. Co., as night watchman, which fact attests to his value as an employe. He continued in this capacity until in July, 1893 when he became overheated and was sticken by paralysis, the balance of his life being spent as an invalid. At times he would imporve, but never fully regained the use of his limbs.

He passed away peacefully to the better land at 10 o'clock p.m. June 22d, 1908, aged 60 years, 4 months and 19 days, his devoted wife and ministering friends being at the bedside.

He died trusting in Jesus having accepted him as his Savior.

There remains to mourn his passing of this gentle spirit his wife and grandson, George W. Brown of Texas, two sisters, the latter being Mrs. C. Crandall of Lebanon, Ore., and Mrs. E. Price of Lebanon, Kas.

In the death of Mr. Brown the city loses a character that was identified with the progress of the town for many years. Even after his terrible affliction, which deprived him of the use of his faculties he continued to interest himself in the welfare of the city and was always pleased when a step in advancement was taken.

His familiar figure will be missed from the front porch and which is sadder still the vacancy made in the home will be felt keenly each day as the wife goes about her tasks. The good wife, who for fifteen long years ministered to his every want, gladly, willingly repaying him for the years that he consistently lavored for her and the joy.

The funeral services were held at the home on Wednesday afternoon of last week, at 2:30 o'clock, the ceremony being in charge of Rev. Clark of the Presbyterian church. Interment was made in the Bonaparte cemetery, a large number of friends following the body to the last, long resting place beside that of his son.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book C, Page 64, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA