Larson aka Larson Mathre, Sam J. (1848-1927)

LARSON, MATHRE, CHARLSON, HEGLAND, RANDO, SJURSON, SVELLAND, JACOBSON

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 4/12/2024 at 23:13:55

From Story City Herald December 15, 1927 (page 5)

OBITUARY

Sam J. Larson Mathre

Sam J. Larson Mathre was born at Skaanevig, Norway, Feb. 22, 1848 and died at Randall, Iowa, Dec. 7, 1927. He was at his death 79 years, 10 months and 14 days of age.

Mr. Larson was the last child of John and Elizabeth Larson to pass away. The brothers and sisters who have preceded him are: Inger Charlson, Andrew, Lars, Ole, Mrs. Anna Hegland, O. J. Larson and Mrs. Malinda Rando.

Mr. Larson was a boy of nine years when he emigrated to the United States with his parents in 1856. They settled in Kendall county, Illinois, but at the end of the year they continued their journey westward to Iowa, crossing the prairies in and emigrant wagon. They came direst to Hamilton county, settling on a tract of government land in Scott township, being among the first settlers in this community.

Aside from a few log cabins scattered along Skunk river, the country was practically unsettled. The nearest trading post was Iowa City. They were practically without funds, but were rich in hope, energy and determination of purpose, firmly believing in the great land where so many of their countryman had fared well.

From the youngest to the oldest they worked together toward this single purpose--to establish a home. Those first years were difficult indeed, but they were true pioneers and regardless of hardship, nothing could discourage them. Each year witnessed an improvement in their circumstances, and in time their became one of the most productive and valuable farms of the township.

As might be expected, Mr. Larson's early chances were meager but from his youth he had learned the lessons on the value of thrift and diligence. Thus his early training well qualified him for the battle of life.

When he left the home of his parents and bought his own farm in 1876, his capital consisted mostly of a well developed body, tireless energy and a firm purpose to succeed. The result was that Mr. Larson became one of the most prosperous and substantial citizens of his community.

As to his church affiliation, Mr. Larson was a Lutheran and a member in good standing of the Elim Lutheran church at Randall.

June 17, 1880, Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Eline Shurson Svelland, born in Illinois, a daughter of Thor and Carrie Svelland. In his wife Mr. Larson found a true and faithful companion thruout his whole life. She shared with him the joys and trials of life and her faithfulness continued to the very last as she stood and watched over him so to speak day and night in his last illness, which service Mr. Larson appreciated very much.

Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Larson. They are: Mrs. Annie Jacobson, John, Thomas, Alfred, Clarence and Richard. All of whom are occupying and working the Larson estate near Randall. Besides his dear wife and children he also leaves to mourn his loss 15 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

His farewell was: "Jesus will soon come now and bring me home."

Saturday, Dec. 10th, Mr. Larson was buried from his church at Randall, where his pastor, Rev. G. O. Paulsrud, officiated. Mr. Theo. Quam and Mrs. Ben Anderson sang two beautiful songs, "Beautiful City of Gold" and "Heaven Is My Home," at the service.

A very large audience paid the last respect to this their lifelong friend and old settler. The flower-decked casket was carried by friends of Mr. Larson. They were Edwin Olson, M. L. Henderson, H. B. Hanson, P. J. Okland, Johanes Teigland, Jonas K. Johnson.