Hoxmeier, Theodore 1854-1923 & Mary Krier Family

HOXMEIER, NEMMERS, KRIER, MEIS

Posted By: Wilma J. VandeBerg (email)
Date: 2/9/2024 at 10:24:32

Hoxmeier, Theodore 1854- 1923 & Mary Krier Family

This Family story was taken from the St. Mary’s Catholic Church Book of 1883-1893 page not listed. It was transcribed for this BIOS by Wilma J. Vande Berg of the Greater Sioux County Genealogical Society. Some Research notes have been added. Information presented in the form it was in the indicated source.

Theodore Hoxmeier was born on July 21, 1854 at St. Donatus Iowa. He received his education at St. Donatus School. Mount Calvery and Teachers’ Seminary at St. Francis Wisconsin. He taught in his home vicinity for eight years.

On January 16, 1878 he was married to Mary Krier, born 1857, in St. Donatus. In October, 1882, Mr. and Mrs. Hoxmeier moved to Alton, Iowa, where Mr. Hoxmeier entered into partnership with his brother Mike in the general merchandise business. The partnership was later dissolved, but the business continued until Mr. Hoxmeier’s death, and then for many years, being conducted by his children Dominic, Susan, Mary and Clara. The building known as ‘Hoxmeier’s Store’ still stands and is now occupied by Broun Hardware. (in 1983)

The Hoxmeiers were parents of nine children; Michael of Los Angeles; Dr. Nicolas of St. Louis; Sisters May Claire and Janine of the Order of St. Francis of Dubuque; Susan, Dominic, Mary, Bernard, Clara, and Helen who died in Hogh school in 1917. Susan was the oldest, born in 1878; Mike in 1882; Nick in 1885; Dominic in 1887; Mary in 1891; Bernard in 1893; Sister Mary Claire in 1896; Clara in 1897; and Sister Mary Jeanine in 1899.

Dominic and Clara were operators of the family general merchandise store for many years. Clara spent her last years at Happy Siesta Retirement home in Remsen. All members of the family are deceased, except Sister Mary Jeane, who resides in Holy Family Fall, Mount St. Francis Dubuque Iowa

The old Hoxmeier family home just north of the store building was an outstanding structure. After the family had passed away, the home was sold and has been used by the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Alton.
(end of story in the church book)

RESEARCH Notes: From obits on this web page, from ancestry.com actual statistics and from ancestry.com public member trees submitted by other than this submitter.

Theodore Hoxmeier was born 21 Jul 1854 Tete Des Morts, Jackson, Iowa and died 25 Aug 1923 Alton, Sioux IA. His parents were Henry S. Hoxmeier 1823-1903 and Susanna Nemmers 1831 – 1907. He married 16 Jan 1878 to Mary Krier at St. Donatus IA.

Mary Krier was born 6 Sep 1854 St. Donatus Jackson IA and died 19 Jun 1931 Alton IA. Her parents were Nicolaus Krier 1826-1904 and Margaretta Meis 1835-1882. Theodore and Mary Hoxmeier had nine children

CHILDREN of Theodore and Mary Hoxmeier: Nine children were listed in their obituaries but it is noted that several children died as children and youths. According to a report on ancestry.com public member trees there may have been about 14 children born to them.

1. Susan Hoxmeier was born December 28, 1878. She was employed as a seamstress. She died September 23, 1970. See her obit on this web page.
2. Henry T. Hoxmeier was born July 8, 1880 and died September 1906. He was afflicted with Locomotor ataxia for seven years. See his obit on the web page.
3. Michael T. Hoxmeier born January 8, 1882 St. Donatus IA died 23 May 1959 Los Angeles CA. Wife – Katherine a Thill 1891-1955, children – Helen M. Hoxmeier 1916-1996, John T. Hoxmeier 1918-1977, Catherine 1921, Ramona Anne 1927-2016, Mary Jeanine 1929-1997, and two others listed as private by ancestry.com.
4. Gretchen Hoxmeier born 1884 died Feb 1890 died of Diphtheria at six years. See the obits of Hoxmeier children Gretchen and Anthony 1884-1890.
5. Nicholas Theodore Hoxmeier born 29 Jan 1883 Sioux County IA died 1 Jun 1947 of St. Louis died Alton IA. See his obit on this web page.
6. Anna Hoxmeier Miss born 9 Aug 1886 died Apr 14, 1907 Alton IA. See her obituary on this web page.
7. Dominic Theodore born 21 Oct 1887 Alton IA died 4 Mar 1964 Le Mars IA. Alton businessman. He had no immediate family. See his obit on this web page.
8. Anthony Hoxmeier born 9 Mar 1889 Alton IA, died 28 Feb 1890 Alton IA of diphtheria at six years. See the obits of Hoxmeier children Gretchen and Anthony 1884-1890.
9. Katherine Hoxmeier born 6 Dec 1890 Alton IA died 7 Jan 1891 Alton IA. Died of Diphtheria-croup. See her obit on this web page.
10. Bernard G. Hoxmeier born 14 Nov 1893 Alton IA died 14 Jun 1936 Le Mars IA. Ran the general store with sisters. See his obit on this web page.
11. Elizabeth Hoxmeier (Sister Mary Claire) born 19 Jun 1895 Alton IA died 1982 Alton IA
12. Clara Hoxmeier (Sister M. Clara) born 23 May 1897 Alton IA died Jan 1897 Alton IA.
13. Mary Jeanne Hoxmeier (Sister Mary Jeanne) 31 Jan 1899 Alton IA died 29 Apr 1994 Dubuque IA
14.Helen ‘Lena’ Hoxmeier born 26 Mar 1901 IA died 3 Feb 1917 Nassau Twp Alton IA. Died of an abscess behind eye that proved deadly. See her obit on this web page.

OBITUARY of Theodore Hoxmeier 1854-1923

T. HOXMEIER ALTON PIONEER BURIED
Prominent in Business and Town Affairs for 41 Years--Raised Large Family
On Saturday evening the sad news passed through our community that Mr. Theodore Hoxmeier, a pioneer business man of our town, had departed this life to the life of the great beyond where we all hope to meet again. Although the news did not come all unexpected, nevertheless it was a sad blow to all of us. For the past few months Mr. Hoxmeier was compelled to leave his duties to care for his health, but it was only for the past four weeks that we missed his pleasant and cheerful countenance. During this time he was confined to his bed suffering continual pain until death claimed him.
Mr. Hoxmeier was born at St. Donatus, Iowa, July 21st, 1854. He received his primary education in the parochial school at St. Donatus from where he went to Mount Calvary to pursue his studies. From 1871 to 1874 he attended the Teacher's Seminary at St. Francis, Wisconsin, where he qualified himself for the noble and sacrificing work of teaching, which profession he followed for eight years in his home vicinity.
On January 16th, 1878 he was married to Miss Mary Krier of St. Donatus, Iowa. In the month of October 1882 Mr. and Mrs. Hoxmeier moved to Alton, Iowa where in partnership with Mr. Mike Hoxmeier, now of St. Paul, Minnesota, established themselves in the general merchandise business. After partnership was dissolved he continued in this work until the time of his death. It is now forty-one years that "Hoxmeier's Store" has stood on the corner.
He was a man not solely interested in himself, but heartily took part in the affairs of the town serving as the first town clerk. He was also a member of the town council for many years. He was a true citizen, loyal to his God and to his country. When he came to Alton he took an active part in the building of the Catholic church. His zeal for the honor and glory of God led him to organize the choir at St. Mary's church, he being the first organist.
On Tuesday morning at 9:30 o'clock his remains were taken to St. Mary's church where a solemn requiem Mass was celebrated for the repose of his soul. Msgr. G. L. Hoxmeier of Lansing, Iowa was celebrant. Rev. Thiltgen D. D. of Ozsian, Iowa deacon, Rev. Ambrosy of Oelwein, Iowa subdeacon, Rev. Klein of Le Mars, Iowa master of ceremonies and Rev. G[obscured] of Granville knelt in the sanctuary. As the body was carried into the church by the pall-bearers, Messrs. Peter Hansen, Ferdinand Monsel, Math Kellen, Mike Even, Louis Noethe and George Friedman, Very Rev. F. J. Brune, his pastor, with two acolytes met the mourners. After Mass Very Rev. F. J. Brune delivered a very touching and appropriate sermon, choosing for his title "Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven and His Justice and all else will be given unto You." His remains were laid to rest in St. Mary's cemetery.
He is survived by his beloved wife and nine children: Michael T. of Los Angeles, Cal.; Dr. Nicholas T., St. Louis, Mo.; Sister Mary Claire and Sister Mary Jeanne of the Order of St. Francis, Dubuque, Iowa; Susan, Dominic T., Mary, Bernard G. and Clara at home. Besides his family he leaves to mourn his two brothers, Msgr. G. L. Hoxmeier of Lansing, Iowa and John Hoxmeier of St. Donatus, Iowa; and three sisters, Mrs. D. Krier of Emery, S.D., Mrs. Helena Goebel of Alton and Mrs. Frank Niemeyer of Elkader, Iowa.
Besides all the members of the family and all the brothers and sisters of the deceased the following relatives and friends from out of town attended the funeral: Mr. A. E. Krier, Los Angeles, Cal.; Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Andre, Petersburg, Neb.; Mr. D. Krier, Mrs. W. J. Schiltz, Mrs. M. L. Fox and George Krier, Haverhill, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Krier of Emery, S.D.; Mr. Theodore Mike Hoxmeier, St. Paul, Minn.; Mrs. Anna Lahr, Farmer, S.D.; Mr. Charles Herrig and Peter Herrig of Iona Lake, Minn.; Mr. George Nemmers, St. Donatus, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Nic Nemmers, Bird Island, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Peter Nemmers, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Nemmers, Mr. and Mrs. Nic Wiltgen, Mrs. Anthon Reuter, Mrs. J. P. Eilenbecker, Mrs. J. P. Marx, Mrs. Catherine Tintenger and son Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Thoma of Le Mars.; Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Henkels and Miss Kate Kiser of Struble, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kettler of Homer, Neb.; Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Tintenger and family, and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Kemp of Oyens, Iowa; Mrs. Katherine Nothern, Mrs. Annette Duster, Theodore Subteige and Anton Delperdang of Remsen, Iowa; Mr. Anton Arens and daughter of Dundee, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Fishback and Mr. and Mrs. Barney Koob of Granville; Mr. and Mrs. Math Hoffman and family of Hospers; Mrs. A. J. Braig of Ashton.
Source: Alton Democrat, September 1, 1923.
* * * * * * * * * *
GREATER BUILDINGS
A splendid neighbor--a fine friend--all who knew him regret the passing of Theodore Hoxmeier, pioneer Alton merchant. Together with his brother he built the fine brick building at the east end of main street business block with an opera hall above the store which has been the scene of hundreds of memorable incidents in the life of the community.
The building lives after him but even more do the many acts of kindness, courtesy and generosity which we all instantly bring to mind when thinking of him make memory of the man something that will always be a good influence in the lives of those who knew him. He built well but the big brick block which bears his name was not his greatest building for the influence he leaves on the hearts of his fellow citizens is a far greater and more lasting structure which can never be destroyed. As a neighbor he was beyond compare and as a friend invaluable.
Mr. Hoxmeier's spirit moves on with us and his memory is a benediction to those who call him friend. His last illness was a tragedy to his friends but not to him. He had courage to face the infinite future for his conscience was clear and met with fortitude old friends who could not suppress their tears when calling to see him, and some could not even bear to call for fear of breaking down.
We will miss the grand old man but his memory lives on.
Source: Alton Democrat, September 8, 1923.

OBITUARY of Mary Mrs. Theodore Hoxmeier 1857-1931
WAS BORN IN IOWA 1857; DIED IN IOWA Source: Alton Democrat, June 26, 1931.
Mrs. Mary Hoxmeier Was Genuine Pioneer
The angel of death, which again stalked into the Hoxmeier family, on Friday, June 19, claimed for its victim the dearly beloved mother, who had been confined to the home since Christmas. Mrs. Hoxmeier was so well known and had so endeared herself to all that the news of her passing brought sadness to many a heart, and it is with grief that we chronicle the event.
Mrs. Hoxmeier, nee Mary Krier, was born at St. Donatus, Iowa, September 6, 1857. She received her education in the parochial school in St. Donatus.
On January 16, 1878, she was married to the late Mr. Theodore Hoxmeier of St. Donatus, Iowa. In the month of October 1882, Mr. and Mrs. Hoxmeier moved to Alton, Iowa, where Mr. Hoxmeier established himself in the general mercantile business. Since the death of Mr. Hoxmeier on August 25, 1923, Mrs. Hoxmeier through the industry of the children continued the business.
When Mrs. Hoxmeier realized that the untiring efforts of the doctors, and the care of the children were of no avail, she, dominated by a truly Catholic nature and quiet resignation, bowed before the Lord's Will and responded to the call of the Divine Master fortified by the last rites of the Catholic church.
Mrs. Hoxmeier had been a loving and devoted wife, a true and sincere mother, a faithful and staunch friend, a kind and obliging neighbor, an upright and honest citizen with a numberless host of acquaintances, who deeply mourn her loss.
The immediate relatives surviving Mrs. Hoxmeier are: her children, Susan, Dominic, Mary, Bernard, and Clara of Alton, Michael of Los Angeles, California, Dr. Nicholas T. of St. Louis, Mo., Sister Mary Claire and Sister Mary Jeanne, both members of the order of St. Francis, Dubuque, Iowa; her sisters, Sister M. C. Senensis, of the Sisters of Notre Dame, Milwaukee, Wis. and Mrs. J. J. Andre of Petersburg, Nebr.; her brothers, Dominic Krier of Sierra Madre, California, Aloysious Krier of Los Angeles, California and Michael and Theodore Krier of Haverhill, In.; her brothers-in-law, Right Rev. Msgr. G. L. Hoxmeier, of Lansing, Iowa, and John Hoxmeier, of Bellevue, Ia.; her sisters-in-law, Mrs. Dominic Krier, of Sierra Madre, California, Mrs. Helena Goebel, of Alhambra, California, and Mrs. Frank Niemeyer, of Elkader, Iowa.
On Tuesday morning at 9:00 o'clock her remains were taken to St. Mary's church where a requiem Mass was celebrated for the repose of her soul by Rev. Henry Pick. As her body was carried into the church by the pall-bearers, Messrs Ferdinand Monsel, Michael Even, Louis Noethe, John Steichen, John Schneider and John Weis, Rev. Henry Pick with two acolytes met the mourners. After Mass, Rev. Father Pick delivered a very touching and appropriate sermon choosing for is text: "But let every one prove his own work, and so he shall have glory in himself only, and not in another" (Gal. 4). Her remains were laid to rest in St. Mary's cemetery.
Besides members of the family, with exception of Michael, who had visited his mother several weeks ago and was unable to return at the present time, the following relatives and friends from away paid their last respects: Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Andre and son Frank, Petersburg, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Krier and daughters, Clementine and Angelica, Haverhill, Iowa; Mrs. F. A. Niemeyer and son Norbert, Elkader, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Fox, Emery, S.D.; Mrs. W. A. Goergen, Woonsocket, S.D.; Mrs. Louisa Hoxmeier and son, Michael T., St. Paul, Minn.; Mrs. Josephine Nemmers, Fulda, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Nemmers and son Reinhart, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Nemmers and family, Mrs. Peter Nemmers, Mrs. Margaret Tentinger and daughter Marie and son Carl, Mrs. Catherine Tentinger and daughter Margaret, Miss Susan Hoffman, Mrs. J. P. Marx, Mr. Aloysius Nemmers, Mrs. John Nemmers, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Reuter, Mr. and Mrs. Nic. Wiltgen, Mr. and Mrs. Isadore Lieb, Miss Mary Herrig, and Miss Anna Kemp, all of Le Mars; Mr. and Mrs. M. H. Plathe, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Nemmers, Mr. and Mrs. R. Koob, Mrs. N. Klein, Mrs. Anna Fischbach and daughters Rose and Mae, all of Granville; Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Tentinger, Miss Catherine Nothem, Mrs. Mary Frank and daughter, Mr. Peter Kemp, all of Remsen; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Herrig and son Lawrence, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Herrig and son Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. N. B. Kass, all of Iona, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Nick Nemmers, daughter Edith and son George, Bird Island, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. B. D. Demeth, son Wilfred and Mrs. Nic Welter, Woodstock, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fath, Lismore, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Albert Probst, Homer, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas Reistoffer, Mrs. N. Goetzinger, Mrs. Joe Kemp and Mr. and Mrs. George Lucy, all of Oyeus; Mr. and Mrs. Gus Alesch, Marcus; Miss Virginia Lahr, Farmer, S.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Al Jonas and Mrs. A. J. Braig, of Ashton; Mr. and Mrs. John Gloden, Hospers; the Ven. Sister Mary Servatius and the Ven. Sister Mary Irma, Briar Cliff college, Sioux City; Misses Mary and Lena Greenen, Sioux City; Mr. and Mrs. V. J. Bieberich, Petersburg, Nebr.; Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Klein, Howard, S.D.

There is a picture in the St. Mary’s Church book of the Hoxmeier family

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