SPEARS, Brenda: Died 1966

SPEARS

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 10/23/2017 at 15:38:44

**Handwritten: Rec-Rep. 4 Aug. 1966

Drowns In Farm Pond

Brenda Spears, 9, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Norman Spears of Birmingham, drown late Sunday in a farm pond a short distance southeast of Eldon.

The girl with three younger brothers, an older sister and a friend were playing near the pond, located in an isolated area.

Authorities said the friend, Johnny Cloke, 11, Eldon, waded out into the water carrying Brenda piggyback. Brenda's brother, Gary, 7, followed them out, and apparently got into water over his head.

When Johnny tried to help him, Gary apparently panicked, grabbing him around the neck, causing him to lose his hold on Brenda.

Authorities said she slipped into the water, and drowned. The body was recovered about an hour and a half later.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book J, Page 77, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA