William I. ROSECRANS

ROSECRANS, FINCH, BARNES, PRITCHARD, MARTIN

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 5/23/2010 at 12:54:02

Belmond Herald Press - Belmond, Iowa
30 November 1921

William I. Rosecrans was born in Amsterdam Township, Hancock County, on August 18, 1862, and died on November 21, 1921, at the home of his daughter in Garner, Iowa, being 59 years, 4 months and 3 days old. Practically his whole life was spent in Hancock and Wright Counties. He was in the mercantile business in Belmond from 1885 until 1898, a member of the firm of Pritchard £ Rosecrans. He later entered into the shoe business and was also interested in the grain buying business with J. N. Johnson under the firm name of J. & R. Grain Company. After disposing of his shoe business he devoted his time to the affairs of the grain company and to his own real estate and other investments. He was also for a time associated with the management of the First National Bank of Belmond, first as cashier and afterwards as president. About four years ago his health began to fail and he retired largely from active business life, spending a considerable part of the time in California. He was married to Catherine Finch, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Finch on May 23, 1886, Father Hanley, who officiated at the marriage, being present and speaking briefly at the funeral services Friday. To Mr. and Mrs. Rosecrans two children were born, Leo, an attorney of Los Angeles, California, and Mrs. Gladys G. Barnes of Garner. There are two grandchildren, Catherine Rosecrans Barnes, aged four years, and Betty Lou Barnes, aged six months. Two brothers and a sister also survive him as well as nephews and nieces, and a host of warm friends. Mr. Rosecrans was an active and faithful member of various Masonic societies. He had been for many years a member of King Solomon Lodge No. 210, A. F. and A. M. at Belmond, a member of the Eagle Grove chapter, R. A. M.; a Knight Templar of the Clarion Commandery and a member of the Za-Ga-Zig Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Des Moines. Funeral services were held in Belmond last Friday afternoon at the high school auditorium and at the Belmond Cemetery where interment took place, the funeral ceremonies being in charge of King Solomon Lodge, No 210, A. F. & A. M. A Knight Templar escort of honor, in full uniform, members of Commandery at Clarion, were also present at the funeral which was attended by a large audience of friends and acquaintances.

Will Rosecrans was universally esteemed in Belmond. Generous and accommodating, of a cheery, genial disposition, he radiated sunshine and cheer wherever he went. His memory will remain great for a long time in the hearts of his many friends who will be often recalling with a tear in the eye and a choke in the throat his many pleasantries and acts of generous helpfulness. He was a true man and a splendid citizen. He will be missed by many and in missing him their sympathy goes out to the sorrowing and bereaved wife, children and relatives.