Andrew Lorton 1846-1908

LORTON, SCHUYLER

Posted By: Volunteer - Karen DaPra
Date: 2/15/2002 at 18:25:12

ANDREW LORTON

Andrew Lorton, the subject of this memoir, was born in Van Buren Co, Iowa, Aug. 14, 1846. He was one of ten children born to John and Sarah Lorton, both of whom have preceded him to the home beyond. Three brothers and two sisters were all waiting to greet him there. His boyhood and young manhood days were spent upon the farm, but several years ago the family removed to Vernon where he has since made his home making many friends by his cheerful upright life. For some time he has been in failing health and for the past seven weeks has been a constant sufferer, and the end came not unexpectedly. Everything that the loving forethought of relatives and friends could suggest, was done to alleviate his sufferings and to restore him to health but all was in vain, the Death Angel had entered the home to waft his spirit into the Great Unknown.

Throughout his sickness he manifested a cheerful hopefulness and Christlike patience at all times, always having for those who entered his sick room a ready smile and appreciative words for their kindly interest.

Very quietly the end came very early Thursday morning, God in his mercy permitting his body to be at ease for several hours before his death. Gently as a tired child sinks to sleep in a mother's protecting arms, just so quietly and did Andy, as he was familiarly called by all of his friends, fall asleep, peacefully closing his eyes and then all was over; he was at rest. He passed away May 7, 1908, being at the time of his death 61 yrs, 8 mos. and 21 days of age.

He will be sadly missed in the community, but most of all will be missed in the home and by those who knew him and loved him best. He leaves to mourn their loss two brothers, Thomas Lorton of Mt. Sterling, and Charlie Lorton of Bentonsport, and two sisters, Mrs. Sarah Schuyler of San Louis Obispo, Cal. and Miss Mary of Vernon, all of whom were present at the funeral except Mrs. Schuyler. Besides these he leaves many other relatives and a host of friends.

Funeral services were held at the Vernon M. E. church Saturday, May 9, at two o'clock conducted by Rev. Blagg of Mt. Sterling, after which his body was laid to rest in the Vernon cemetery beside the dear old mother he loved so well; there to await the resurrection morn.

(Photocopy of this obit is located on page 263 of Obit Book B found in the Van Buren County, IA Genealogical Society's collection at the Keosauqua Public Library in July 1999. Handwritten at bottom of obit is "1908 May Record.")

2nd Source: Entler Scrapbook Collection, vol 5, Iowa Historical Library, Iowa City, IA