MUIR, William P. Lippincot: Died 1922

MUIR, THOMPSON

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 8/20/2016 at 19:58:02

Major W.P.L. Muir.

William P??? Lippincott Muir, son of Thomas and Catherine Muir, was born December 5, 1837, at Philadelphia, Pa., died on the road leading past White cemetery, on the way to his niece's home, September 1, 1922, age 84 years, 8 months and 26 days.

He came west with his parents in 1840 to Van Buren county, Iowa, where he lived on a farm on Vernon Prairie. In 1862 when the war cloud hung over the nation, the call of his country came to him, he enrolled in the Union army to defend the flag he loved and has honored all his life. October 14, 1861, he enlisted in the 15th Iowa infantry, and from the first his leadership and ability were recognized when from private he was promoted 1st sergeant, second lieutenant, 1st lieutenant, captain, and brevet major. The hardships, sacrifice and suffering developed an undaunted courage and a steadfastness that remained permanent throughout his life. He was spared through the years of bloodshed to return to the calm peace of his youthful home. He was honorably discharged from service July 24, 1865.

On April 7, 1864, he was united in marriage with Susan Clara Thompson, whose home was near his, and whose quiet, home-loving nature made the years of their walk together thoroughly one of happy companionship. He was devoted to her and spared no pains to add everything possible to her comfort and happiness. Two children, Edward N., who died in infancy, and Katie E., who lived only a few years, left this estimable couple even more dependent on one another's interests. In 1897 they moved to Bonaparte, where they built and furnished the home they loved so well; where every piece of furniture and picture held a place of meaning. His capabilities and great love of friends and community called him to many places of honor and confidence in the town life; in fact all the improvements and growth of the little town have been a part of his life, and he was interested in everything pertaining to the town's welfare and prosperity, serving on committees and council, and as mayor, where his sense of justice and loyalty never faltered.

On September 4, 1918, his wife was called home, after 54 years of companionship together. Those who knew and loved him best wondered how he could go on alone, but the God who is wiser than all human love had prepared a way, and when the present pastor came to the church a mutual friendship developed at their meeting that directed Rev. Coppoc and family to move into the home and its furnishings and surroundings have remained just as they were planned so many years ago.

Mr. Muir was a member of the Masonic lodge and one of the few remaining of the Elias M. Ware Post of the G.A.R., and where he will be sadly missed.

His identity with the Baptist church here has been that of faithful devotion. He has held offices of trust and importance, and even though age had made slow his step, his mind and strength of purpose were clear and unabated. Through years he has attended service in rain or sun, faithful to the last. His favorite hymn, "Higher Ground," and the phrase oftenest quoted by him in public prayer, "May we measure up a little nearer each day the standard Thou wouldst have us reach," is the measure of life - virile, strong in spirit, onward and upward - keeping abreast of the measures of life. He has answered roll call as a faithful soldier to his highest Commander.

Beside the nephews and nieces and other relatives, he leaves in mourning an entire community. His life has been a blessing and a benediction to all with whom he associated.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Baptist church with Rev. Coppoc delivering the sermon and Rev. James assisting in the service. Music by a male quartet. Eleven veterans of the Civil were present and stood with bowed heads beside the casket of their comrade while a burial service was given under the leadership of James Fowler of Keosauqua. Interment in the Thompson cemetery.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book 172, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA