Craig K. Miller ~ 1862-1921

MILLER, HARTZELL, MANNING, GILISPIE

Posted By: Volunteer - Rhonda Rankin Rowe
Date: 2/4/2002 at 09:23:38

Craig K. Miller was born in Keosauqua, Iowa, December 4, 1862, and departed this life June 26, 1921, age 58 years, 6 months and 22 days. His father, John A. Miller, a native of Ohio, came to Keosauqua the spring of 1847. His mother, Amanda J. Hartzell Miller, was a native of Indiana. They were united in marriage in Keosauqua October 23, 1856, and established their home in the house where Craig died, and there all of their children were born.

Craig was preceded in death by his father, mother, three brothers- George, Paul, and Ed, and two sisters, Mary and Maud. The funeral of each of them was held from the same house. He is survived by his wife, Mary Miller; his nephew, Bates M. Manning; his two aunts, Miss Hattie Miller and Mrs. James Gillispie of Memphis Mo., and a host of friends who truly mourn his death.

Mr. Miller held one of three certificates, issued by the U.S. government to citizens of Van Buren county, for loyalty to and service with the “Four Minute Men” during the World War.

The deceased united with the Congregational church in his youth, and was a faithful member of that institution, using his talents for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God. For a time he devoted his services as a singing evangelist. Later he placed his membership in the Church of Christ Scientist, feeling, as as he expressed it, that he was thus better enabled to find expression for his religious ideas. He always retained his love and respect for the church of his youth.

Mr. Miller was a member of the three Masonic lodges of Keosauqua. He was raised Feb. 8, 1884, exalted Jan. 12, 1885, and knighted April 7, 1885. He was elected organist of these orders Jan. 11, 1891, and served faithfully in that capacity until his death. He was an enthusiastic and helpful member in all these orders. He was also a Shriner, being one of the earliest members of that order in Keosauqua.

Funeral services were held at the home at 2:30 Tuesday afternoon, June 28. Rev. James M. Hedges, pastor of the Congregational church, officiated. Music was furnished by a male quartet, composed of Sir Knights Rev. J.C. Caughlan, Dr. E.E. Sherman, W.O. Bostock, and R.R. McBeth. On conclusion of the service, El Chanan Commandery, Knights Templar, took charge of the obsequies. The Sir Knights, followed by other Masons, escorted the funeral cortege to the Miller family lot in Purdom cemetery, where all the honors of the Templar ritual were paid the memory of the deceased Knight.

A very large number of friends of the deceased attended the services. Out of town relatives present were Miss Hattie Miller and Messrs. Henry and Wallace Gillispie, Memphis, Mo., and Chas. Pickard and family of Bentonsport.
There was a great profusion of beautiful flowers, sent by friends both near and far.

Source; Iowa Rankin and Jenny Matheson newspaper clippings