Peter SMITH

SMITH, KEMPH, KEMFF

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 2/10/2024 at 13:06:59

Peter Smith
6 October 1853 --- 10 December 1935

Peter Smith was born in Herren, Darmstadt, Germany, October 6th, 1853, and passed away at his home in Eagle Grove, December 10, 1935, his age at the time being 82 years, 2 months, and 4 days.

From the Northwestern Railway Magazine of February 1934 department of the Pay Roll of Faithful Service, it is learned that on November 1, 1933, Peter Smith, machinist Helper, Northern Iowa Division, was pensioned, with a service record of 40 years, lacking one month.

He came to America from Germany in 1879 and three years later began work for the C. & N. W. under the tin inspector at Marinette. He worked on the tie hauling job that winter until the snow went off and the sleighs could no longer be used, when he returned to Chicago and was sent to Gifford, Iowa. On July 30, 1884, he went to Eagle Grove, handling material for the storekeeper. In 1903 he was transferred to the round house as laborer and continued until 1917, when he was assigned to the tool room where he remained until pensioned.

A fine portrait of Mr. Smith accompanied the article.

Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Margaret Kemff of Eagle Grove, who passed away October 4, 1934. They were married April 27, 1886, and to this union six children were born, one dying in infancy. Those living are Charles, William, Peter, and Margaret of Eagle Grove and George of Cherokee. Eight grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren also survive.

Mr. Smith was a member of the International Association of Machinists and was formerly a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.

The funeral was held from the Kubitschek & Kastler funeral home Thursday afternoon, Rev. A. S. Kilboun officiating. Burial was at Rose Hill cemetery. Two beautiful and appropriate selections were sung by Mrs. A. E. Keller and Miss Gertrude Merrill.

EAGLE GROVE EAGLE --- Eagle Grove, Iowa
Thursday, December 19, 1935

Source ---- Paul Wilde