Garden Grove Express
Garden Grove, Iowa
December 7, 1893

John KEHLER died at his home, four miles northwest of town, Sunday morning last. He has been ill ever since his return home from the World's Fair in the summer. He seemed to grow worse gradually, the symptoms indicating brain trouble. Some four or five weeks ago the family took him to Kansas City and placed him in charge of a noted specialist for nervous diseases, but of no avail. The highest medical skill and the utmost attention seemed of no purpose. He gradually failed until death came.

Mr. KEHLER was one of our best citizens and in his death his family have lost a kind father, and friend, the neighborhood a good man.

The following obituary was handed us for publication:

John Levegood, son of Michael and Fanny KEHLER, was born in Jackson township, Lycoming county, Penn., December 21st, 1840; died at his home in Garden Grove township, Decatur county, Iowa, December 3d, 1893.

In 1863 he united in marriage with Miss Mary RIDGE, and by her four children were borne to him. The eldest of these died when about two years of age; the remaining three, Spencer, Eugene, and Mrs. Kate STANLEY, survive him, and reside in this township.

The year following his marriage (1864) he and his wife accompanied his father and mother in their removal to this county, and he made his home with them on the farm, where he continued to reside until his death.

In April last he went on a visit to the scenes and acquaintances of his youth, where he spent some time very pleasantly. However, when he reached home September 10th, he was seriously sick, and though all available means of relief were resorted to, including a three weeks stay at All Saint's Hospital at Kansas City, he grew worse until the end.

He was greatly beloved by his children and by his sisters, three of whom, Mrs. WALES, Mrs. WHEELAND, and Mary KEHLER, reside in Garden Grove.

Throughout his life he lived peaceful with all men, and was held in his regard by all his acquaintance.

Funeral services were held at his late residence on Monday, Dec. 4th at 11 o'clock a.m., being conducted by Robert BEER, after which the remains were interred in the Garden Grove Cemetery.

Copied by Stacey McDowell Dietiker
December 9, 2003