KNECHT, Francis: 1846-1923

KNECHT, ELSENSOHN, DEVENY, FITZGERALD

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri (email)
Date: 9/12/2013 at 06:24:07

IN MEMORIAM
**Handwritten: 1923

FRANCIS KNECHT

Francis Knecht was born in Lech, Austria, May 4, 1846, and departed this life at his home, 521 South Sheridan avenue, Feb. 1, 1923, aged 76 years, 8 months and 27 days. He came to America in 1872, going directly to the Benedict Fretz home at Blakesburg.

In 1876 he married Theresa Elsesohn. To this union were born ten children, Anna the eldest, dying at the age of 9 years; August B. of Miles City, Mont.; Julius E. of Newcastle, Wyo.; Mrs. E.J. Deveny, Sanders, Mont.; Edward A., Selma, Iowa; Frank F., Douds, Iowa; Levi M., Lead, S.D.; and Mary Madeline, at home. Two sons, Edward and John, died in infancy.

John Fitzgerald made his home with them from the time he was 7 years old until he became of age and was with the family this winter.

Mrs. Caroline Klodt, 1014 Clinton avenue; Mrs. Salome Beylenger, Au, Austria; August Knecht, Bludens, Austria, are sisters and brothers of the deceased.

Five grandchildren came to gladden his declining years--Kenneth, Harold, Joseph and Francis Knecht, and Mary Madoline Deveny.

Mr. Knecht was one of the pioneers of Van Buren county, later moving to Davis county, where the family grew to manhood and womanhood. Seven years ago he retired from the farm and came to Ottumwa, where his death came so unexpectedly, February 1.

Mr. Knecht was a conscientious Christian character and has a host of friends besides his family and relatives to mourn his loss.

Funeral services were held at St. Patrick's Catholic church, Monday morning, February 5, at 9 o'clock, conducted by Father H.J. Hogan. Interment was made in Calvary cemetery.--Contributed

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book C, Page 244, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA