STEVENS, Allen W.: 1832-1896

STEVENS, WALKER

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 8/2/2013 at 05:30:44

Allen W. Stevens.

On Saturday evening, February 15, 1896, at the family residence in Bentonsport occurred the death of Allen W. Stevens, one of the most highly respected citizens of the town. He was born March 25, 1832, in Dearborn county, Indiana, and came with his parents to Ban Buren county, Iowa, in 1845. He went to California in the spring of 1852 and remained there for nearly six years. Was married to Francis Walker, October 20, 1858. Thus briefly outlined are the chief events which make the sum total of the lives of most men. For nearly thirty years Mr. Stevens lived on a farm near Bentonsport, moving in to town several years ago.

He entered the mercantile business as a partner of Chauncey Booth, in which pursuit he remained until August 1, 1892, when he was suddenly stricken with partial paralysis unfitting him for active usefulness. This disease gradually extended until he had left only the use of the right hand. On Sunday February 9, he suffered the last stroke, after which he was speechless and most of the time unconscious until death relieved him. For more than three years he has calmly waited for the fate which he knew would soon over take him, hoping for an early release from suffering, yet was patient, brave, uncomplaining. His devoted wife and family bestowed constant love and attention upon the stricken sufferer, brightening the last years with tenderest affection.

The entire community and vicinity held him in high esteem for kindness and integrity. An ardent republican, he was active in party service during his best year, maintaining interest in political affairs to the last. Besides the bereaved wife, three sons and one daughter are left to mourn the death of a good father. Funeral services were held Tuesday morning in the M.E. church, Rev. Weese officiating. Mr. Stevens had been a member of two societies, the I.O.O.F. and Masonic fraternity, attaining the degree of Knights Templar. The funeral ceremonies were in charge of the I.O.O.F. and the knights of Templars from neighboring towns acted as escorts.
M.L.K.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book C, Page 174, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA