Obituary - William Harris

Son of Elisha and Margaret Patterson Harris was born in Morgan county, Ohio, June 19, 1846. There the family resided on a farm until 1854 when they removed to Iowa, being among the first settlers in Lybrand, Post township.

In the acquirement of an education, William attended the district school at Lybrand and when not engaged with his books aided his father with the work on the farm.

Until he was twenty-one years of age, he remained upon the homestead and then began his independent career, buying land in Post township. There he resided until 1904, transforming the property during that time into a rich and productive farm supplied with modern equipment and accessories. Mr. Harris has the distinction of having brought the first Aberdeen Angus cattle to this vicinity, and for about eighteen years he was one of the most extensive breeders of that breed of cattle in Allamakee county. He continued his personal supervision and practical work upon his properties until 1905, when he moved to Postville, where he spent his retired life in the enjoyment of rest so richly earned by his long season of hones and successful labor.

William Harris was united in married to Miss Charity McDonald, March 12, 1869. She preceded him in death three years ago, having passed away in Chicago, Ill., September 26, 1920. They were the parents of six children, all of whom are living, Herman Harris of Postville; Bertha, wife of Darius Orr, Postville; Edith, wife of Erni Churchill of Monroe, Wis; Edna, wife of Fred Oehring of McGregor; Glessner, wife of Arthur C. Webster of Postville; and Adelaide, wife of Otto J. Beucher of Postville. Mr. Harris is also survived by 8 grandchildren, four sisters, and three brothers.

Mr. Harris was well known in this community as an industrious, far-sighted and capable man, who enjoyed the confidence and respect of his neighbors. He was a stockholder in the Citizens Sate Bank and was well known in fraternal circles, holding membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was also a loyal supported of the Congregational church. Church and community join the family in mourning the loss of father and brother.

The funeral was held from the Community church in this city at two o'clock on Monday afternooon, conducted by Rev. J.A. Saathoff and the Odd Fellows. Interment in Postville cemetery.