Robert E. Watts 1868 - 1913

WATTS, HORNBAKER, WILLIAMSON

Posted By: Volunteer - Rich Lowe
Date: 10/24/2005 at 07:49:04

Robert E. Watts.

Robert E. Watts, familiarly known as “Bert,” a prominent merchant of Hillsboro, Iowa, arose from his bed about midnight Wednesday, Sept. 24, took the cover off the cistern at his home and flung himself in. The body was found a few moments later by his wife.

Mr. Watts had been in failing health for several years and had been unable to sleep since last March except by use of opiates. Loss of sleep and worry concerning his health had caused despondency and the consequent self-destruction. Following is an obituary sketch: --

Robert E., son of R. R. and Ellen J. Watts was born near Bonaparte, Van Buren county, Iowa, March 24, 1868, and departed this life at his home in Hillsboro, Sept. 24, 1913, aged 45 years and 6 months.

In the year 1868 he with his parents moved to Pella, Iowa, where they resided for 12 years, after which they removed to a farm near Bonaparte.

Feb. 5, 1889, the deceased was united in marriage to Carrie V. Hornbaker who has been his faithful companion up to the time of his death.

To this union were born three children, as follows: -- Mrs. Nellie Williamson of Donnellson, Iowa, and Miss Elsie Marie and Robert Earl of Hillsboro.

At the age of 26 the deceased was converted and united with the Christian church of Hillsboro during the fall of 1895.

He has been a great sufferer for about twenty years from a disease which has baffled the best physicians. All of this suffering he bore with patience, never complaining but always appreciative of the kindness shown by his many friends.

He was a loving husband, and a kind and affectionate father and leaves to mourn their loss a wife, two daughters, one son, three brothers, and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held at the Christian church at Hillsboro at 1:30 P.M. Saturday, Elder Grimes of Des Moines, a former pastor, officiating. Hillsboro will miss the smile and cheery greeting of this friend of men.

Source: Entler Scrapbooks, vol. 5, Iowa Historical Library, Iowa City, IA