Decatur County Journal

March l9, l908

The subject of this sketch, "POLK" CALDWELL, as he was called by his

friends and acquaintances, was born October 24, l844, at Fairfield,

Iowa, and died at his home in Decatur City, March l, l908.

When he was about nine years old he came with his father's family to

Decatur City. He resided in Decatur County all his life, except about

six years which he spent in Des Moines.

He was married to VIOLA STANLEY July l3, l879. To them were born two

children, BERTHA B. and ROY W.

He joined the Decatur I.O.O.F. Lodge in l867. He came back to Decatur,

July l5, l907, and realizing that he was seriously ill expressed a wish

to pass his last days in his old home. He said to his daughter, "when

you are young you can make new friends, but when you get old and sick,

you want your old friends." He bore his severe suffering with great

patience and fortitude, always having a cheerful word for those who came

to see him. He was an affectionate husband and father, dealt honestly

with his fellow man, and gave a cordial welcome to those who visited at

his home. During his illness, he greatly appreciated the kindness of

his neighbors and the brotherly care of the members of his lodge.

The funeral sermon was preached in the M.E. Church by Rev. Cox, of

Decatur, the ceremonies being conducted by the I.O.O.F. Lodge, interment

in the Decatur Cemetery.

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Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert

October l7, 200l