Martin Pickering
The Leon Reporter; Leon, Iowa; Thursday, 6 April 1911, front pageMartin Pickering was born in Leon Iowa October 22, 1865, died at his home in this city March 31, 1865 aged 45 years, 5 months and 29 days. On the 20 day of 1887 [no month included] he was united in marriage to Miss Ethel Schenck. To this union, five children were born, one of whom, Hazel died at the age of three years. The other four still survive, those being Mrs Irene Trissler of Garden Grove, Mrs Oneta Penisten of this city and the two boys, Louis and Howard who are at home. The deceased had lived in Leon nearly all his life. He followed the barber trade and is said to have been the best barber in Leon at one time. Six men of like trade were selected to act as pall bearers at the funeral. He was sick only one day, and his sudden death was a shock to the community. About seven years ago during a meeting held here by Rev. H. E. Van Horn he confessed his faith in Christ and was baptized by Elder H. H. Hubbite who was then pastor of the church and placed his membership together with his wife in the Christian Church. While he had not been an active member during the ministry of the writer, he seemed to take deep interest in the recent revival, and only a short time ago in a conversation with Rev. Charles Reeder told him he was expecting to live for Christ that time on. Besides his wife and children mentioned above, and also three grandchildren, he leaves to mourn his departure, a father, mother, three brothers and two sisters, the latter being Mrs Hal Gates of Sterling, Colorado and Mrs Harry Craigo of Garden Grove Iowa. The funeral services were conducted at his late residence in West Leon Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock by the writer, assisted by Rev Chas Reeder. The remains were laid to rest in the Leon Cemetery. - J S Coffin.
Submitted by Pam Shelton-Anderson, 21 Jan 2001