ADAMS, William G. 1886-1956

ADAMS

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler, Volunteer (email)
Date: 1/18/2016 at 09:32:14

Earlham Echo – Earlham, Iowa
May 31, 1956

William George Adams was born on April 25, 1886, in London, England. When he was 14 years of age he came to this country where he was raised in the home of an uncle living in the state of Washington. Early in life he decided to make a career of railroading and for 52 years he worked for the railroads as fireman and engineer in Canada and in the United States. During World War I, he served his country as an engineer in France. He was a member of the American Legion. The last 42 years of his active life were spent in the service of the Rock Island Railroad. Last October, since he was already past the retirement age, he decided to accept the retirement to which he was entitled.

His fellow workmen in Iowa Falls made an occasion of it by presenting him with a wrist-watch. Shortly thereafter he purchased a home in Dexter to which he and Mrs. moved last October.

Last Monday, May 21, he suffered a severe heart attack. He was taken to the Dexter Clinic where he suffered a second attack last Thursday which ended his life at the age of 70 years and 29 days. Surviving mourners include his wife, Mrs. Alma Ellingson, with who he was united in marriage on September 1, 1942; four step-children: Alton Ellingson of Dexter; Lloyd Ellingson of Tallahassee, Florida; Eddie Ellingson of Iowa Falls, Iowa; and Mrs. Elmira Dixon of Mason City, Iowa; one brother named Charles, living in Canada; and two sisters, named Martha and Marie, living in England.

The funeral service was held on Saturday, May 26, in the Roy Evans Funeral Home. It was conducted by Rev. A. C. Weber, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, who rendered him spiritual service during his illness. The body was taken for burial in a cemetery at Manly, Iowa.

Pall bearers were Charles Scar, and stepsons of the Adams. Charge of flowers were Helen and Roy Evans. The Dexter American Legion furnished military rites in Dexter and the Manly American Legion furnished the military rites at Manly, Iowa. The American flag was presented to Mrs. Adams in honor of the services by Mr. Adams to our nation in time of need for World War I.