Bates, Thomas J. 1850 - 1881

BATES, HOUSE

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 10/12/2025 at 05:10:49

Elkader Register, 01 July 1881.

Thomas J. Bates passed beyond the river Styx, on Sunday morning at about 10 o'clock peacefully falling into his last long sleep, his death being directly caused by a bullet wound in his head, made some time since, when in a fit of desperation he attempted to take his own life. Ever since that sad occurrence, on the 22d day of March, he has been suffering a great deal of pain, and on Saturday night he was taken with convulsions, which continued until shortly before his death.

Thomas J. Bates was born at Pomeroy, Ireland, April 10th, 1850, being then, a little over 31 years of age. He came to this country about 14 years ago, last May, and located in Portage City. He remained there for 8 years, working at his trade, and then came to Elkader, going into business for himself.

He was married to Anna House, Jan. 06th, 1871, and by her had three children, one boy and two girls, all of whom are living. Since his residence in Elkader, Tom has made many warm friends by his ever genial manners, who will extend to his afflicted family their heart-felt sympathy. The funeral occurred on Monday afternoon, at four o'clock, under the auspices of the Odd Fellows, of which organization he was an honored member, and was largely attended by numerous friends. His remains were laid away in the cemetery on the East Side. May he rest in peace.