Richards, Daniel Smith 1835 – 1902

RICHARDS, WINDELL

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 5/19/2024 at 21:00:43

Source: Decorah Republican Apr. 3, 1902 Page 6 Col 2

This community was shocked last Sunday, about one o’clock, on hearing of the death of D. S. Richards. Mr. R. had not been feeling very well for some time and was down town Saturday most of day, eating his supper as usual. Between eight and nine o’clock that evening he was taken violently sick from acute indigestion and continued in great distress all night. In the morning he was somewhat relieved, seemed better, and occasionally drowsed. Between twelve and one o’clock, after having slept about twenty minutes, it was noticed that he was breathing heavily, and after a few such respirations passed away. He had complained for some time of distress about the region of the heart and the severe wrenching experienced during the night, taxed that organ more than it could stand.
Mr. Richards was one of the pioneers—having come to this county about 1855. At the time of his death he was in his sixty-seventh year. In the making of the history of this section Mr. R. has taken an important part as he was always public spirited and took a great interest in current happenings He was by nature industrious and worked at his trade, that of a carpenter, until within the last year, when he had taken a much needed rest, by visiting friends in the east. He was devoted to his children (his wife having preceded him to the great beyond about eighteen years ago) and did all in his power for their comfort and happiness. He had often expressed a desire that when his time came he might be called quickly, and in this his wish was gratified. Another of the early settlers has passed to his reward. We have been called to chronicle these departures one by one until the ranks are becoming thinned out, and a younger generation is arising to take their place, but will never be compelled to endure the privations and hardships experienced by the elder ones. Let us have a kindly feeling for those who have endured so much to make this country what it is to-day.
Mr. Richards in survived by five children, Mrs. G. L. Windell, of Seattle, Wash.. Wm. L., Wallie, Theron and A. M. All unite in expressions of sympathy for the family. The funeral will take place to-morrow (Wednesday) at the Universalist church west of town. Rev. Wing of Elkader will officiate.

Transcriber’s Note: His gravestone in Bloomfield Cemetery shows he was born April 17, 1835 and died March 30, 1902.

Source: Decorah Republican Apr. 3, 1902 Page 6 Col 3

Word was received here last evening that Smith Richards had expired very suddenly from heart failure at Castalia.

Transcriber’s Note: Find a Grave shows his name was Daniel Smith Richards

Bloomfield Cemetery
 

Winneshiek Obituaries maintained by Jeff Getchell.
WebBBS 4.33 Genealogy Modification Package by WebJourneymen