STEVENS, John R.: 1851-1926

STEVENS, STEMPLE

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 7/25/2013 at 07:21:57

JOHN R. STEVENS

John R., the son of Andrew and Sallie Stevens, was born near Bonaparte, Van Buren county, Iowa, on Sept. 9, 1851, and passed away after a long illness at his home 603 S. 6th St., Kirksville, Mo., at 1:20 o'clock Friday afternoon, Sept. 3, 1926, aged 74 years, 11 months and 24 days.

He grew to manhood near Bentonsport and was happily married at Vernon Dec. 31, 1875, to Gertie E. Stemple, who is left to mourn her loss.

To this union seven children were born, six of whom lived to cherish the memory of a kind and loving father. They are Roy A., Clarence J., Verne F., Nellie L. of Kirksville, Mo.; Thayne of Davenport; and Bliss A. of Clinton, who were all at his bedside when he passed away. One son, Sega L., 11 years old, preceded him in death by over 30 years.

Mr. Stevens lived in Cantril for 22 years, moving from there to Kirksville where he resided until he passed away.

He became a member of the Masonic Lodge of Bentonsport, transferring his membership to Cantril, then to Kirksville and for 52 years was a devoted member.

Although a sufferer for four years he was always kind, patient and thoughtful of others and at last passing away in that calm and peaceful sleep that knows no awakening.

Besides the children there were nine grandchildren. Mr. Stevens was the last of the family of ten children.

The funeral services were held on Sept. 4th at his home at Kirksville, conducted by Rev. Dubois of the M.E. church. The body was then taken to Cantril, and was laid to rest in the family lot beside that of his son, by the Masonic Lodge of Cantril, of which he was a member during the time he lived there.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book C, Page 164, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA