Brich, Joseph J. 1857-1922

BRICH, HELGERMAN

Posted By: S. Ferrall - IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 1/5/2024 at 14:39:56

Obituary of J.J. Brich, by our Littleport Correspondent)

After an illness of three months duration, with intervals of intense suffering, J.J. Brich for many years a respected citizen of Littleport, passed away at his home, just shortly after the midnight hour, Thursday morning, March 9, 1922, at the age of 65 years.

Altho it was known that his illness was of a nature that gave no promise of recovery, his death was not expected so soon and came as a shock to those who are left behind. His passing has left many a saddened heart for he was everybody's friend, a kind and sympathetic neighbor, honest and upright citizen, always willing to help anyone in need and ready to sanction anything for the promotion of the town in which he lived.

He died a happy death, fortified by the rites of the Catholic church of which he was a consistent member, surrounded by his family.

J.J.. Brich was born in Bohemia, April 6, 1857, and came to the United States with his mother in 1871, when only fourteen years of age, and located in Clayton County. For several years he was engaged in different positions and in 1885 built the large and commodious building, where he has conducted a general merchandise store up until the time of his death.

For twenty years he held the position as postmaster, and was president of the Littleport Savings Bank until three years ago, when he resigned, also held the office of town treasurer since the incorporation of Littleport until his recent death. He was a member of the M.W.A.for which he acted as clerk and of the R.N.A., acting as their manager.

In 1882 Mr. Brich was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Helgerman, who with one son, Wm. J. Brich survive.

While he will be sadly missed by his many friends and neighbors, to whom he has endeared himself, it is a deeper and darker sorrow to his family, his devoted wife and son, who so tenderly cared for him during his illness.

The funeral was held Saturday morning at 10 o'clock from Sacred Heart church, where Mass was celebrated by Father D.F. Minogue, who preached a touching sermon on the beautiful life and character of the deceased. The church was filled with many sorrowing friends, who came to pay their last respects to one they had known and loved for many years.

The remains were borne to Sacred Heart Cemetery where they were tenderly laid to rest. Pallbearers were M. Dinan, L. Dinan, J. Wiley, A. McNamara, F. Kafer and A. Purvis.

Card of Thanks
We wish to thank our many friends and neighbors, who were so kind to us during the illness and death of our beloved husband and father, also for the many beautiful floral offerings.
Mrs. J.J. Brich and son, Wm.

~Clayton County Messenger, Wednesday, March 15, 1922, pg 1