Iowa Old Press
Mapleton Press
Mapleton, Monona co., Iowa
Friday, March 5, 1897
DIED
Mrs. J. A.. Heisler, who lived in this vicinity before
Mapleton existed and whose father, W. H. Wilsey, laid out the
site of old Mapleton and gave to it its name, died last Friday,
February 26th, after a few days of acute suffering.
Clarissa Wilsey was born in Illinois January 22, 1846. At the age
of nine years, she came with her parents to Maple valley. They
were among the earliest settlers.
In June 1861, she married Mr. J. A. Heisler. The young couple
went to housekeeping in a log house near what is now known as the
Heisler Creek, a mile east of Mapleton. They have lived on the
same farm all their married life, though for many years in more
capacious and handsome residence. Industry and thrift brought
them prosperity, and they are highly esteemed in the community.
Mr. and Mrs. Heisler were both happily converted during the
revival services at the Methodist Protestant church more than a
year ago, and their home has been the scene of a weekly prayer
meeting for some time.
For several years Mrs. Heisler has been the victim of a disease
which caused atrophy of a leg. Gangrene resulted and last Monday
it was deemed necessary by the attendant and consulting surgeons
to amputate the toe. This was done and it was hoped that the
tissue death process was arrested. After about twenty-four hours
apparent improvement, however, it became evident that the
gangrene was extending and that death must result. Death occurred
at 11 o’clock last Friday.
The Funeral services were held at the home yesterday, February
28. The commodious residence was filled with sympathizing
friends. Rev. S. S. Scull conducted the services and the remains
were laid in the Heisler cemetery.
[transcribed by L.Z., March 2019]