The Lamoni Chronicle
Lamoni, Iowa
May 11, 1905

Obituary.

LANEY - Dr. W. J. LANEY was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, April 15, 1827. He graduated from a medical college in Willoughby, Ohio, and began the practice of medicine in 1851, in Van Buren co., Iowa. In 1853 he removed to Leon, as the pioneer physician of this county being associated in partnership with Dr. G. E. THOMPSON. In 1857 became a resident of Decatur City, practicing his profession until 1896, when he came to Davis City, and purchased the corner drug store, where as pharmacist and druggist he remained until his death, Thursday morning, May 4th, passing away at the ripe old age of 78 years and 19 days.

He was married to Miss Fannie BRUCE at Leon, May 16, 1866. In 1857 he was elected to represent Decatur county in the general assembly of Iowa, the first legislature under the new constitution, which convened at Des Moines. He endured all the privations and hardships of frontier life, his practice extending throughout this and adjoining counties, and even into Missouri. He was very kind hearted and sympathetic, and possessed those qualities which made his presence especially acceptable in a sick room.

In his death we are again reminded that as the years go by, "Friend after friend departs." Those that we have known in infancy, in childhood, in youth and maturity, one by one pass from our sight; yesterday they were with us full of life and joy and love, today they are gone, and our homes are desolate, our hearts are sad with a sadness for which earth has no remedy. The dearest and nearest, the truest and the noblest, pass from us in answer to the call of Him who "doeth all things well."

Dr. LANEY leaves to mourn his departure a wife, one daughter who has ever been her father's right hand, two brother's and one sister, the latter ones unable to be present at his funeral. The funeral was at the M. E. Church, sermon being preached by Rev. BINGAMAN to a large congregation of sympathizing friends. The coffin was literally covered with flowers, gifts of his numerous friends. We especially mention the beautiful pillow presented by the business men of Davis City as a mark of the high esteem in which he was held. The Modern Woodmen of America had charge of the funeral, he being a charter member of that order. His body was laid to rest in Davis City cemetery, there to await the resurrection morn.

Copied by Stacey McDowell Dietiker
June 16, 2003