Benjamin, Ira 1834 – 1896

BENJAMIN, BRAINARD, GILCHRIST, BENEDICT SYKES, HULL, PULASKI

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 5/19/2024 at 21:00:45

Source: Decorah Republican Oct. 22, 1896 P 5 C 4

DIED.
BENJAMIN—At his home in this city, Thursday, Oct. 25th, 1896, Mr. Ira Benjamin, in his 62d year.
Mr. Benjamin was born in Courtland Co., N. Y., Dec, 16th, 1834, where his early life was spent. Before coming west he was a school teacher, but on taking up his residence at Rockford, Ill., engaged in the grain trade with a brother. Later he moved to McGregor, where he bought grain, and also followed the same occupation at Conover, Ossian and Calmar in this county, until sixteen years ago, when he moved to Decorah where he has since made his home. When the system of steam heating was put into the county jail and court house Mr. Benjamin was chosen to take charge of it, and this position he occupied until a few months ago, when he was compelled by failing health to relinquish his duties to younger and stronger hands.
Mr. Benjamin was thrice married, his first wife being Miss Sophy Brainard, of Courtland Co., N. Y. His second wife was Mrs. Gilchrist, of McGregor. At her death two children were left to mourn with their father. They are Mr. D. G. Benjamin, of McGregor, and Miss F. A. Sykes, of Canton, N. Y. In 1875 he was married to Mrs. M. Benedict, of Courtland, Co., N. Y., who survives him. A sister and brother, Mrs. Hull, and Mr. Dewit Benjamin, of Fort Dodge, Iowa, and two brothers in New York state, Misses Pulaski and Horace Benjamin, also survive of his family.
Mr. Benjamin was of a jovial disposition and enjoyed a wide acquaintance while in the grain trade. He was never affiliated with any religious organization, but during his last hours made his peace with his maker. His last days were ones of much pain and suffering, but he met them bravely. Consumption resulting from a complication of diseases was the ultimate cause of death. The funeral services were held Saturday morning from the house, Rev. Willett officiating.