Margaret Erz Angel

Margaret Barbara "Erz" Angel 25, was born March 7, 1911 at Hopkinton, Iowa. She resided there with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Erz, until the age of 10 when her parents moved to the Watauga vicinity to make their home. She resided here with her folks and attended the Watauga Public School.
In 1930, she met Clement James Angel and on November 28, 1930 they were joined in Holy Matrimony by Father O'Hara at the Watauga Catholic Church. They made their home in Watauga until September 15, 1936 when both took ill with botulism poisoning and died a few hours later.
Mrs. Angel was preceeded in death by her father John Erz who died two years ago and by her husband, Clem, who died only a short time before she joined him in death.
The deceased was a native of this community, having lived most of her life in the vicinity. She was liked by everyone who met or knew her. She was a good Christian; having been a member of the Catholic Church at Watauga, and a member of the ladies Altar Society, and a member of the church choir. She was a good wife and a good neighbor.
She is survived by her mother, Mrs. John Erz; five sisters Mrs. Lee Baumeister and Mary Erz of Watauga and Mrs. August Angel and Alvina and Armela Erz of Detroit Mich.; four brothers Alfred, John, Edwin and Vincent all of Watauga; many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Taken from Morristown World Sept. 1936

Clement James Angel

Clement James Angel was born November 18, 1903 at Warren Michigan. He received his education in Warren for the first several years until his family moved to Detroit, where he remained for a number of years.
In 1930, he came to Corson county and took up residence in Watauga where he met and married Miss Margaret Erz, daughter of Mrs. John Erz. This happy young couple purchased the Watauga hotel and meat market which they operated until the time of their death, September 15th, 1936.
The congenial couple lived in a most harmonious life, being of good Catholic faith, and both died together approximately twenty minutes apart. Mr. Angel leaves to mourn his passing, one brother August, formerly of McIntosh; three sisters; Mrs. Joe Kraus, Mrs. Bystry and Mrs. Schwader all of Detroit, besides a cordon of friends in the West River country.
Funeral services were held in Watauga Saturday, September 19th from the Catholic church with Father O'Hara, Father Creahan, Father Lahey and Father Dunn officiating. The funeral sermon was delivered by Father O'Hara of Watauga. Interment was made in the Catholic cemetery at Watauga, beside his wife.
Taken from Morristown World September 1936

Rufus J. Reddick

Rufus J. Reddick, 46 a native of Trinity, died suddenly yesterday afternoon at his home in Watauga South Dakota, of botulism poisoning, it was learned late yesterday by his sister Mrs. C.C. Cagle of Trinity.
Mrs. Cagle received notice that her brother's condition was serious and left for Raleigh to board a plane. While at the airport she received notice of his death and that the body was being shipped to High Point.
The deceased was a veteran of the World War, leaving the army at the close of the war to go into business in South Dakota.
Surviving besides Mrs. Cagle is another sister Mrs. W.C. Massey of Cary and A.M. Reddick of Laurinburg
Taken from High Point (N.C) Enterprise.

Mike Nehl passes away

Surrounded by his loved ones who had tenderly cared for him during the past two months, Michael Nehl, passed to the Great Beyond, at his home in Watauga, Friday Eve., Dec. 7th. Having suffered a paralytic stroke several years ago it was difficult for him to get around, however on the back of his pony he was a familiar sight on the streets and in the fields where he took an active interest in the farming operations.
Deceased was born in Sauk County, Wisconsin, Nov. 9, 1859. At an early age he moved to Iowa on a farm. At North Washington, Iowa on September 26th, 1882 he was married to Kate Roethler. They moved to Wadena county, Minn., and homesteaded. After a few years they removed to Alta Vista, Iowa, and went to farming, remaining there until 1911 when they moved to Watauga where he bought considerable land and with his sons took an active part in the development of the community. Deceased is survived by his widow, six sons, three daughters and 21 grandchildren. Wm. B. Nehl, Art. E. Walter, Ray, Mrs. Helen Mollman, Mrs. Clara Baumeister, and Mrs. Mabel Lichter all of Watauga, and Jesse E of Keldron. He is also survived by 5 brothers and three sisters. He was an honest, upright, forceful man. A man of sound judgment and broad vision. Starting out as a poor man, but with the spirit of the pioneer, by hard work and perseverance, he accumulated a comfortable station in life but could not remain to enjoy it. Since coming to Watauga he has taken active part in all public affairs and to all worthy causes gave his moral and financial support. The funeral was held Monday, Dec. 10 at St. Michaels church. Requiem High Mass was celebrated by Rev. Father O'Hara. With six sons acting as pall bearers, the remains were carried from the church to the nearby cemetery, followed by an exceedingly large crowd which evidenced the esteem in which the deceased was held.
Taken from McIntosh Globe Chief December 20, 1924

Mrs. Mike Nehl

Friends and relatives from far and near came to pay their last respects to Grandma Nehl, who passed away at the home of her daughter last week. The funeral services and interments being held at Watauga last Friday.
Although her span of years had been many, her passing cast a shadow of sorrow over the entire community. With the same kind disposition and pleasing personality that had gained her a wide circle of friends, the grand old lady passed from this world to take her place in the house not built by man to carry on her kindness and good deeds to others.
Kate Roethler was born at North Washington, Iowa, May 15, 1862 and passed away April 13, 1938. She was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Mike Nehl, September 1881. The happy couple made their home at Wadena, Minn., for three years after their marriage and then returned to Alta Vista Iowa, where they made their home until 1911, when they moved their family to a homestead south of Watauga. They have continued to make their home in the Watauga vicinity, the husband having preceded his wife in death several years ago, and the two now rest in the cemetery at that place.
The children left to mourn her death are: Helen Mollman, Watauga; Wm. Nehl, Watauga; Fred Nehl, Morristown; Arthur Nehl, Watauga; Jesse Nehl, Keldron; Ray Nehl, Watauga; Clara Baumeister, Watauga; Mabel Lichter, Denver, Colo.; Walter Nehl, Alderwood Manor, Wash. Besides her own children there are 33 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren and many other relatives.
Relatives who came to pay their sad respects from distant places were; Walt Nehl and family; Mabel Lichter and family; and Frank Roethler of Waterloo Iowa; Conrad Roethler from North Washington, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. August Honeyman and son, Edward and daughter Marie of Bucyrus N.D. Mark Nehl, Columbia S.D.; Catherine Nehl, Denver Colo., and Donald Nehl of Kelvin N.D.

Death Halts Lads Journey to Mother

Little do we realize the sadness and sorrows of others as we drift along in life when things are hitting on all four, and the world looks rosy. If we are enjoying health and happiness we don't think of what the future holds or what disappointment awaits us and perhaps in the very near future.
we have in mind, the death of Valden Rowley at the Passehl Rooming house, Sunday January 1st. The boy was about seventeen years of age, was picked up at McLaughlin a week ago, suffering with double pneumonia and brought to McIntosh but his condition was beyond all human aid, and he passed away without regaining consciousness. After his death, a letter was found on his person from his mother, written from Seattle Washington, and the letter had every ear mark of being written by a mother with true love for her boy. This mother is undoubtedly patiently waiting for the arrival of this boy who now sleeps in a grave provided by the county. In the same envelope was a note written by a small sister, telling him to hurry home and they would all be happy together. He had been in Minnesota and was making his ways to Seattle on his mother's request, but death intervened but unfortunately, there was no address on the letter and messages sent to Seattle police department have had no result in locating his parents.
The boy was laid to rest in the McIntosh cemetery in true Christian manner, but no friends or relatives to shed a tear of remorse in this passing. Every effort will be put forth to locate his mother.
Taken from Corson County News January 5, 1933

Well Known Watauga Woman Dies Suddenly

Mrs. Ida Sampson, wife of Frank W. Sampson, passed away at her home near Watauga S.D. on July 16, 1934. She became seriously ill at 9 p.m. Thursday night but in spite of all human hands could do she passed peacefully away at 1 p.m. Friday July 26.
Mrs. Sampson was a member of the Watauga Presbyterian church and was an active member of the Ladies Aid; her church and Sunday School class was the foremost thought in her life.
Mrs. Sampson was also a member of the Watauga Woman's Club and had a host of friends who were shocked by the news of her untimely death. She was of a jovial disposition and delighted to entertain them.
She was devoted to her home and family and she had won a warm place in the hearts of her neighbors and all acquaintances.
Ida Walters Sampson was born in Truen, Saxony Germany, November 16, 1867 and passed away at her home in Watauga at 1 p.m. Friday, July 27, 1934.
At the age of 14 years she came with her parents to America and settled at Central City , Merrick county Nebraska.
On May 8, 1888 she was united in marriage with F.W. Sampson in Archer, Nebraska where they lived together until 1911, when they came to South Dakota, where they have since resided.
She was preceded in death by two daughters and a son.
The following are left to mourn her loss, that of a kind and loving wife and mother; F.W. Sampson of Watauga, Bert Sampson of Lincoln Nebraska, Mrs. Jesse Pike of Portage, Wisconsin, Mrs. E.J. Condo of Ironwood Michigan, Mrs. R.F. Miller of Elgin N.D. Glen and Dorothy and a grandson, Dale Idso who were living at home. She also leaves to mourn her loss three sisters and two brothers.
The funeral services were held at the Watauga Presbyterian Church at 2:30 Monday, July 30, 1934, following a short service at the home. These were conducted by Rev. Robert Elkin, of Lemmon S.D. Two hymns, "Asleep in Jesus" and "Sometime We'll Understand", favorite songs of Mrs. Sampson, were rendered by the choir.
The members of her Sunday School class-Donna Hendrickson, Audery Anderson, Bernice Thompson and Ellsworth Sheldon were flower bearers.
The pall bearers were R.F. Miller, E.J. Condo, J.H. Pike, son in laws of the deceased, Orrie Willigan, Sr., Erick Anderson, and George Kvilhaug.
The body was laid to rest beside her daughter, Louise Idso, in the Morristown cemetery.
The large number of friends present at the service and the many floral offerings were a silent tribute of the high esteem in which this loving wife and mother was held in her community.
Other out of town relatives who attended the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. J.G. Zellar of Groton, Mrs. Zellar is a sister of F.W. Sampson.
Taken from Morristown World August 2, 1934

Lillian Stambaugh dies Suddenly at Bismarck

A shadow of sorrow passed over friends and acquaintances when the sudden and unexpected death of Miss Lillian Stambaugh was made known in McIntosh last Thursday, March 1st. Miss Stambaugh was rushed to the hospital at Bismarck several days before when she suffered a heart attack. She rallied from the first attack and high hopes were held for her partial recovery, but she was taken ill again Wednesday evening and never recovered.
Although a midget, Miss Lillian had a heart of size and disposition that was envied by every acquaintance. The little lady had a very active mind, was ambitious and had a smile for everyone. Her death is mourned by a host of friends. She made her home with her parents and was employed at intervals in local business places. Friends were not aware of the heart disease that she was fighting, and her pleasing disposition was never dampened by her illness. Her friendship was sought and her presence always brought a ray of pleasantness.
Lillian Pauline was born July 16, 1912 at Buffalo, Texas. At the age of five she came with her parents to Elgin, N.D., where she attended school until her folks moved to this community. She has lived with her parents and relatives in the Morristown, Watauga and McIntosh communities where she has attended school and in each place has kept regular attendance at Sunday School as long as her health would permit. For the past five years she had made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Heisig near Morristown.
She leaves to mourn her death her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Stambaugh, a sister LaCean,, her brother Edsel, grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Bertz, four aunts Mrs. Heisig, Mrs. Meade, Mrs. Ehert, Mrs Bud Moore, and an uncle Charles Bertz. She reached the age of 21 years, 7 months and 13 days.
The funeral services was held at the Presbyterian church last Sunday afternoon. The choir sang, "In the Hour of Trial" and "Rock of Ages". Rev. M.D. Bone conducted the service. Interment was made in the McIntosh cemetery.
Taken from Corson County News March 8, 1934

Pioneer Watauga Resident Succumbs

Watauga and community, lost another of its pioneers and highly respected citizens last Wednesday, July 27, when Henry Mollman passed away. He was at the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Paul Jones when death summoned him. He had been suffering with cancer for some years, but not until about three months ago did the dreaded disease take its final toll of strength.
Mr. Mollman came to the Watauga community in 1910 and filed on a homestead south of that town. From the raw prairie land he transformed it into a modern farm with hard work and good management. In spite of adverse conditions he was always jovial and never complained, and was ready with a helping hand for others who were less fortunate. He was a good citizen, father and neighbor and his place in the community will be difficult to fill and his many friends will cherish his memory.
Henry Mollman was born January 19th, 1881 at Alta Vista Iowa. He was wed to Miss Helen Nehl at Alta Vista, January 31st, 1905 and the young couple moved to south of Watauga in 1910 where they made their home until the death of his wife last February. A daughter, Rosella also preceded him in death. He was affiliated with the Catholic church and was a staunch believer in is faith. Surviving relatives are; Dorus Mollman of Watauga, Leonard and Russel of Morristown, Mrs. J.P. Jones of Morristown, and Mrs. Ed. Neiderman of Watauga, besides 21 grandchildren, 1 brother and 5 sisters who reside in Oklahoma and Colorado.
Funeral services were held at the Catholic church at Watauga last Saturday morning with Rev. Father Kinsley officiating. Interments was made in the Watauga cemetery. Pallbearers were Cecil Lang, Lawrence Schilling, Herman Ruhoff, Fred Cook, Jerome Zubrod and Ray Sinclair.

Pioneer Watauga Lady Succumbs

Mrs. Henry Mollman, Helen as she was most familiarly known to all her friends passed away at the st. Alexius hospital in Bismarck February 11, following a stroke. She had been ill aabout five months, having been stricken while she and her husband were on a trip in Colorado, visiting relatives.
She entered st. Luke's hospital in Aberdeen and spent a week in Rochester receiving medical care. Early in December she was taken to Bismarck hospital and was able to spend Christmas at the home of her daughter in Morristown. Shortly after New Years' she went back to Bismarck, for further medical care.
Monday before her passing, her family was summoned and all were at her bedside when death claimed her.
Helen Nehl, was the eldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Mike Nehl, and was born at Wadena, Minnesota June 27, 1883. She moved with her parents to Alta Vista, Iowa at the age of three. She was married to Henry Mollman January 30th, 1905 at Alta Vista, Iowa. They moved to Watauga, S.D. 1910 on a homestead which she lived on until her death.
Six children were born to this union; three sons and three daughters; one daughter, Rosella, preceding her in death in infancy.
She leaves to mourn her loss, her husband; three sons; Dorus of Watauga, Leonard and Russell of Morristown; Mrs. J.P. Jones, (Marcella), of Morristown; (Louise) Mrs. Ed Neiderman of Watauga; nineteen grandchildren; six brothers, Art, Ray, Bill of Watauga; Jess of Fort Meade, Fred of Santa Monica California, Walt of Seattle, Washington; two sisters Mrs. Wm. Lichter of Denver Colorado and Mrs. George Baumeister of Watauga.
Funeral services were held at St. Michaels' Catholic church in Watauga Tuesday, February 15 with the Rev. Fr. Kingsley officiating. Burial was made in the Watauga cemetery.
Mrs. Mollman was loved and respected by all who knew her. She was always ready to help anyone who needed help. Her family and home was her pride. Although her health hasn't been the best in the last couple years she always smiled. Her husband and Dorus were with her when she passed away.
Friends from near and far came to pay their respects. Pallbearers were Herman Ruhoff, Joe Ruhoff, Lawrence Schilling, Louis Hetzel, Cecil Lang, and Fred Blow.
Out of town relatives who attended the funeral were Mrs. Wm. Lichter of Denver, Mrs. Jess Nehl of Lemmon, Mrs. Fred Nehl of Greeley Colorado, Mrs. and Mrs. Walter Haisch of Baker Montana.

Funeral Held at Watauga for R. Nehl

Ray Nehl, 70 resident of the Watauga community for 50 years died unexpectedly at his home in that village early Sunday morning. Mr. and Mrs. Nehl had sold their Sioux county ranch this fall to their son, Burton, and had built themselves a new home at Watauga, moving in about a month ago. Mr. Nehl had risen early Sunday morning and had stepped outside. His body was found a short time later by Mrs. Nehl.
Funeral services were held from St. Michael's Catholic church at Watauga Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock. Rev. Paul G. Dahms, the pastor celebrated requiem high mass.
Pall bearers chosen from among long time neighbors were Ralph Katus, Stuart Streigel, Frank Bergenheir, Kenneth Ketterling, Martin Hilsendager, Jack Chesrown, active; James Maher, Ed Willigan, Glen Peters, Fred Blow, Link Winters, Louis Snider, honorary. Burial was made in the Watauga cemetery.
Mr. Nehl was born at Alta Vista Ia., Feb. 29, 1892. He came with his parents to the Watauga community as a youth. He was prominent in the area and took an active part in its development for many years.
He is survived by his wife, three children, Burton of Watauga, Mrs. Walter Haisch and Donald of Rapid City all of whom came for the funeral, several grandchildren and two brothers Jesse of Lemmon and Walter of Rapid City and two sisters, Mabel and Clara.
Dated Dec. 16, 1962

Former Watauga Merchant Buried

Funeral services were held at Our Savior's Lutheran church of Montevideo, Minn., last Wednesday Jan. 4, for Simon Thomsen, pioneer Hardware merchant of the Watauga community.
Mr. Thomsen died at the Montevideo hospital New Year's Day at 4:00 p.m. after being admitted on the Tuesday before. He had been in failing health for some time and was hospitalized intermittently. After the services there he was taken to Diamond Lake Lutheran church where further services were held and burial made there beside his wife, near Lake Benton, Minn.
Mr. Thomsen was born March 22, 1882 at Dwight, Ill. When a young lad he moved with his family to Lake Benton where he grew to manhood and received his education. He was married at Arca, Minn., to Anna Engkjer on March 23, 1911 and lived on a farm there.
It was through Wm. Holm that he learned of the Hardware at Watauga being for sale and purchased same in 1916 from Bert and Jack Bigham. He operated that until 1944 when he sold to Leo Erz and retired from business and year and a half after they moved to Montevideo to make their home. In 1958 they built a new home which they enjoyed just three weeks before his wife passed away in September. He lived alone since, until he entered the Luther Haven Rest Home.
Taken from Corson County News January 1967

Former Watauga Boy dies of Rifle Wound

Brought to the Mandan hospital at ten o'clock Sunday evening suffering from a wound in his abdomen caused by a rifle bullet, Clifford Alldrett, aged 14, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Alldrett,of Solen died this morning at 1:45.
Alldrett, in company with a young companion, Leroy Berrier, had been hunting and the boys were returning to their home about 5 o'clock Sunday afternoon. Coming to a cross road six miles southeast of Solen, a small dark car, which Berrier said he thought was a V8 Ford sedan, passed them. The car had been weaving from side to side on the road, and as it passed the boys, a window was opened, a gun appeared and a shot fired, which struck Alldrett in the abdomen. Taken to a nearby farm home, he was given first aid and then taken to Solen where the local physician recognizing the seriousness of the wound had him rushed to Mandan. Ben King and Roy Geiger of Solen bringing him to the city, arriving here about ten o'clock. Efforts on the part of local physicians to save the youth, proved futile and he died at 1:30 Monday morning.
The body is being held at the Kennelly mortuary in Mandan pending word from Sioux county authorities.
Clifford Alldrett was born in Watauga S.D., Nov. 15, 1919 and wuld have been 15 years old next month. He is survived by his mother who lives in Los Angeles, California, his father Lee Alldrett, who is employed as a sheepherder on the W.H. Ordway ranch near Solen, and two brothers Raymond of Los Angeles and Ralph of Ipswich S.D. He had made his home with the Arthur Berrier family on the farm 15 Miles south of Solen. (Mandan Pioneer)
Later-At the inquest held at Mandan, Tuesday in which State's attorney Koths and Deputy Sheriff Bossert were present young Berrier stated that Alldrett became excited on the approach of the car and stumbled and fell, discharging the loaded gun that he was carrying. The charge entering his abdomen. After the accident, the testimony presented showed that the boys had walked a mile and a half to get help. Funeral services were held yesterday, further stated Mr. Koths.
Taken from Corson County News. November 8, 1934

Death Account of Former Resident

Mrs. Pearl Hemphill of Burbank, Calif., passed away at her home in that city last Saturday morning at 4;15 o'clock. She was aged 56 years, 11 months and seven days.
Goldie White, daughter of John and Amanda (Lewis) White was born near Fairbury on May 20, 1893. She grew to young womanhood in this vicinity and on May 14, 1914, in this city was united in marriage to Pearl Hemphill, of Colfax. They made their home at McIntosh, S.D. for 31 years and for the past five years at Burbank.
She leaves her husband, two sister, Mrs. Mabel Austman of Forrest and Mrs. Eva Bown of North Hollywood California, two nieces and a nephew; an aunt, Mrs. Emma snowden of Sunnyside California, and an uncle, Art Lewis and an aunt Mrs. Elizabeth Olmstead, of Fairbury and also a host of friends in Illinois, South Dakota and California. Her parents, a brother Grover, who resided in Peoria, and a sister Mrs. Martha Wilson, who resided in South Dakota, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Hemphill was a memeber of the Presbyterian church and of the Eastern Star of McIntosh, South Dakota.
Mrs. Hemphill loved flowers and the beauties of nature and made many friends. Her patience and thoughtfulness for others during her illness wee an inspiration to all who knew her. Her memory will live forever in the hearts of her loved ones.
Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church at Burbank, Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Interment was in Forest Lawn cemetery at Glendale, Cal.
Taken from Corson County News June 1, 1950

C. Spicer buried Friday, Feb. 29

The First Presbyterian church in McIntosh was filled Friday, Fe. 29, with friends and relatives who gathered to pay final respects to J.C. Spicer, widely known rancher of the north Watauga community. He died at Lemmon Wednesday, Feb. 27, 1952.
Officiating pastor at the services was the Rev. Miles Watkins. Music was furnished by the Presbyterian choir accompanied by Mrs. Walter Lawien at the organ.
Pall bearers were Stewart Striegel, John H. Striegel, Jack Chesrown, Harold Twito, Harry Beals and Robert Jangula. Masonic rites were conducted at the grave.
Mr. Spicer had been in poor health for a year. He had been prominent in ranching at his home ranch north of Watauga in Grant county where he had resided continuously for 49 years, coming to his homestead in 1903.
He was commissioner of Grant county for 15 years, taking over those duties in 1935. He was also a member of the Grant County Welfare Board.
Charles Spicer was born in Dundalk, Ont., Canada, January 21, 1885. He moved to Winona, N.D. in 1893.
Survivors include his widow, one daughter, Mrs. Ralph Katus, and three grand children, Marian, Robert and Dennis Katus all of Watauga S.D. and two sisters, Mrs. Lyle Sutliff of Salem Oregon and Mrs. John Percy of Pine City Minn.
Other relatives attending the funeral services were; Mr. and Mrs. Jim Stewart, Pollock S.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Coventry, Linton, N.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Brooks, Wakpala S.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Archie Stewart, Bismarck N.D.; Mrs Gilbert Cusey, Steele, N.D.; Mrs. Robert Berg, Bismarck, N.D.; Kenneth Stewart, Carson N.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Stewart and Lloyd, Brisbane Mr. and Mrs. Robert Jangula, Lemmon S.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Beals, Lemmon S.D.; Mr. O.B. Anderson, Lemmon S.D.; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Chesron, Watauga S.D. and Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Sutliff, Salem Oregon.
Taken from Corson County News March 6, 1952

Dad Spicer Dies at Lemmon

J.H. Spicer, pioneer builder and rancher of the western Dakotas for 51 years, is dead. The summons came to the grand old gentleman at the Lemmon hospital at 7 a.m. Sunday following an illness of three months. Death was due to age infirmities. He was in his 87th year. Until his last illness he had enjoyed the best of health. Since moving to Lemmon in 1936 he had lived at his home on South Main Street.
Funeral services were held from the Presbyterian church at Morristown Wednesday at 2 p.m. The rites were largely attended by friends whose associations with the pioneer cattleman dated back over half a century. Rev. Martin Hyink pastor of Spencer Memorial Presbyterian church of Lemmon officiated at the services. pall bearers, chosen from among close friends were Guy Chesrown, Clyde Palmer, Joe Chesrown, J.G. Striegel, S.L.. Tysdale and F.C. Casey. Burial was made in the Morristown cemetery by the grave of his wife who passed away in 1931.
John Henry Spicer was born at Mount Forest, Ontario, Canada, Sept. 6, 1857. He received his education and grew to young manhood in his native land. After completing his schooling he learned his trade of a stone mason.
He was married in Ontario, Jan. 8, 1890 to Mary J. Smith of Holstein, that province. Three years later they came to the United States. They located at Winona, N.D., across the river from Fort Yates which was then known as one of the strongest army posts in the middle west. For a number of years he was employed at the fort in construction work. Among his many achievements was the buildings of the Skyrock monument which still stands at the Sioux county seat.
At Winona also, tragedy cast its shadow. One morning in 1897 he went to the homestead of his brother, Thomas, north of that city to find that the family had been massacred by the Indians during the night. Six members lay dead. Only two escaped, one of whom is still living.
The troops took up the trail of the guilty band and they were soon brought to justice at Fort Yates. His brother had been a missionary to the Indians since locating on the homestead near Winona.
In 1903, Mr. Spicer broght his family across the Missouri River to locate on a ranch on the Cedar River in Grant county north of Watauga. There he was active in the development of the area and conducted his operations on a large scale for more than a quarter of a century. In 1928, he retired and with Mrs. Spicer, established their home in Morristown. For seven years following her death he continued to live there. In 1938 he came to Lemmon to be near his daughter, Mrs. O.B. Anderson.
During his residence in Grant county he took a prominent part in public affairs. For many years he served as township and school district official.
Surviving relatives include three daughters, Mrs. O.B. Anderson of Lemmon, Mrs. John Percy, Pine City Minn., and Mrs. Lyle Sutliff, one son, Chas. Spicer, Watauga, nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Taken from Lemmon Leader.

Miss Afrank Dies at McIntosh

Miss Edith Afrank, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Afrank of Pioneer township, died at McIntosh Saturday, from a relapse of the flu. Miss Afrank was confined to her room only since Thursday. She was a graduate of the McIntosh High School in 1923 and since that time has been assistant postmistress in that city. She was held in the highest esteem by her many associates. Funeral services were held at McIntosh Wednesday at 12:30 and at Watauga at 2:00, with Rev. H.J. Schaar, officiating and interment was made in the Watauga cemetery.
Taken from the Morristown World February 1, 1929

Mrs. Mary E. Palmer Passes Away

With deep feeling of loss our community mourns the departure, to be with the Lord, of a dear friend and mother in the passing away of Mrs. Mary E. Palmer at the home of her son, Clyde B. Palmer, Morristown, S.D., at 10:15 p.m. Tuesday evening, October 23.
From a large circle of her near relatives who watched and ministered at her bedside for hours, as life was slowly ebbing out, the one who was always active in ministering to others and in service for her Lord, was called home after a long illness without any apparent suffering toward the end.
Born November 25, 1859 at Linden, Michigan, the daughter of Orland Sheapard and Jean Stuart, she came to Reading, Michigan, with her parents where she grew to womanhood. She was married to Franklin Valencourt Palmer in 1877, who died on their claim, north of Morristown in 1919. Three sons were born all of whom are living Clyde B. and Zale F. who carry on business in Morristown, and Ben S., a farmer.
One sister mourns her loss, Mrs. M.A. Ulrey, to whom she was also a mother from the age of six years, after the death of their own mother. At the age of 16 years she united with the Regular Baptist Church of Reading, and although placed in life where she could not always attend church services she carried on the work of the Lord in her community, establishing a Sunday school and carrying on very often under most trying circumstances this faithful minister of the Lord has planted the Seed of Gods word in the hearts of her Sunday school scholars the results of which only eternity can unfold.
Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church, Rev. Hunter officiating and remains were laid to rest in the Morristown cemetery.
Taken from the Morristown World November 2, 19280

Sudden Death of Robert Spicer

This community was shocked Tuesday morning, when word reached town from Lemmon that Robert Spicer, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Spicer, north of the Cedar, had passed away Tuesday morning at 11:30 at the Lemmon hospital, following an operation for appendicitis, performed there Saturday morning.
"Bob" as he was familiarly known, was taken ill with an attack of appendicitis while returning from the Cannonball country, Thursday evening, and was taken to Lemmon, Friday by Otis Anderson.
The deceased was 28 years of age and came with his parents to the North Country where they have been extensively engaged in the cattle business.
Bob was well known in our vicinity and highly respected by his many young associates for his pleasing disposition and upright dealings.
He leaves to mourn his young death his heartbroken father and mother, three sisters, Mrs. Otis Anderson of Lemmon, Mrs. Lyle Sutliff of Coolen, Idaho, Mrs. J.S. Percy of Pine City, Minn., and Chas. Spicer, north of Watauga.
Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at the Presbyterian Church and the remains were laid to rest in the Morristown cemetery.
Taken from Morristown World January 30, 1925

Mrs. Maria Welton Passed Away Monday

Mrs. Maria L. Welton, aged mother of Mrs. F.W. Sutliff of Paradise N.D., passed away at her daughter's home Monday, after a prolonged illness.
Mrs. Welton was born at Killbourn City, Wis., on August 9, 1848. In 1868 she was married to Benjamin Welton, five children being born to this union, four sons and one daughter.
Funeral services were conducted from the Sutliff home at Paradise, Rev. H.J. Schaar officiating and interment made in the Morristown cemetery.
Taken from Morristown World April 10, 1931

Farmer Near Paradise is dragged to Death

Karl Koenig, 30 years of age, engaged in farming with his parents in the Paradise community of Sioux county, was accidently killed a week ago last Thursday. The young man had been engaged in farm operations at some distance from the house and was seen to drive a truck into the farm yard about 11:30 a.m. to get a fresh supply of gasoline and oil for the tractor. It is presumed that while cranking the truck to start back to the field, he placed one leg inside the bumper to get a better brace in cranking the truck engine, that with the sudden vibration of the engine the clutch was thrown in and the car started up, knocking him in such a manner as to drag him to his death before the truck could be overtaken and stopped. The body was quite badly mangled.
Rev. H.J. Schaar conducted the funeral services. The remains were laid to rest in the local cemetery.
Taken from Morristown World May 1, 1931

Noel Birrenkott Buried Saturday

The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Birrenkott of Watauga passed away at a Lemmon hospital early Saturday morning. Prayer service was held at the Catholic church at Watauga at 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon. Burial was made in St. Michael's cemetery in Watauga
The baby, Noel was born Dec. 16. Death was attributed to a heart ailment.
Taken from Corson County News January 20, 1955

Anna Mitchell Buried January 11

Funeral services were held at Walnut Creek, California, January 14, for Mrs. Anna L. Mitchell, 87. She died at Danville, Calif., Jan. 11, 1955. She had been ill for about a year previous to her death.
Mrs. Mitchell moved to Watauga, community with her husband, Joseph Mitchell in 1910 and lived south of Watauga until they moved to California in the late 1930's.
Anna Wall was born in Nebraska. She was married to Joseph Mitchell at Bennett Nebr., in 1886.
Mrs. Mitchell is survived by five sons, Arch and Robert of Branscomb, Calif., Joe, Ned and Charles of Danville, Wash., and two step-daughters, Ida Scogin, Kent Washington and Zera Brown, Erskine, Minn. A step-son preceded her in death.
Taken from Corson County News January 27, 1955

Mrs. Zera Brown Buried Feb. 24

Funeral services were held at Fergus Falls, Minn., Feb. 24 for Mrs. Zera Brown, a former resident of the Watauga community. She died at Fergus Falls Feb. 22. Death was attributed to hardening of the arteries. Mrs. Brown had been ill for several years. She was 75 years old.
Mrs. Brown was born at Bennett, Neb. April 16, 1880. She was married in 1897 to Giles Brown. The couple moved to a homestead north of Watauga in 1910. In 1943, they moved to Lemmon and in 1945 moved to Erskine, Minn. Mrs. Brown was preceded in death by her husband in 1947.
Surviving relatives include Elton Brown of Los Angeles Calif., Mrs. Fred Wolff of Watauga, Harold and Ray Brown of Erskine, Jim Brown of Salol, Minn., Curtis of Crookston, Minn., Mrs. Frank (Louise) Sala of San Francisco, 20 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
Among relatives who attended the funeral were Mrs. Fred Wolff and son Roy, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Brown and family and Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Brown.
Taken from Corson County News March 3, 1955

Services held for Former Resident

Funeral services were held at Anaheim, Wash., Saturday May 21 for Mrs. Hulda Gulson. Her husband the Reverend H.M. Gulson, served the Presbyterian churches of Watauga, Morristown, and White Deer from 1936-1940.
Mrs. Gulson died of a heart attack. Survivors include one daughter Mrs. Heanne M. Stull of Anaheim, three grandchildren and two sisters.
Taken from Corson County News. May 26, 1955

Final Rites Held for Wataugan

Funeral services were held at Watauga Thursday, June 18, for LeRoy Draper, 52 who died at Aberdeen June 14. Officiating clergyman was the Rev. John McCandless of the Presbyterian church.
Mrs. William Neumiller and Enid Neumiller sang "What a Friend we have in Jesus" and "Jesus Loves Me" favorite hymns of LeRoy. They were accompanied by Mrs. Ed. Willigan on the piano.
Pall bearers were Joe Ruhoff, Fred Blow, Lawrence Schilling, Leo Erz, Ed Erz and Ed Willigan. Burial was made in the Watauga cemetery.
LeRoy Draper was born at Esmond, S.D. February 27, 1903. He resided at Watauga during most of his life, spending much of the time with relatives and friends because of an illness. He had been at the Good Samaritan Home in Aberdeen for two years. He had been at the hospital at Aberdeen for just a few days before he was summoned by death.
Surviving relatives include three sisters; Mrs. J.A. Tarver, Aberdeen; Mrs. Herb Kaul, Seattle, Wash.,; Mrs. Richard Reidel of Columbus, Mont.; four brothers Tom and Lewellyn of Aberdeen and Joe and Charles of Watauga.
Taken from Corson county News June 30,1955

William Hendrickson dies following surgery

William Henry Hendrickson, 74 Watauga, died Friday evening in the Bismarck hospital. Cause of death was a heart attack following surgery for cancerous tumors. He had entered the hospital the Monday prior to his death.
His death came as a shock to the Watauga community as he seldom, if ever, complained of any illness. The day prior to his operation, he played golf for a few hours. Hendrickson was interested in sports and participated in public affairs as well as in the interests of his church. A pioneer resident of the community, he was considered a wonderful friend and an enthusiastic helper to those in need.
Funeral services were held from the Presbyterian Church in Watauga, Tuesday October 18. The Rev. John McCandless officiated. Hymns by Carol and Virgil Anderson and Charlotte and Enid Neumiller were rendered. Mrs. Ed Willigan was the accompanist. Pall bearers were Fred Blow, Ed Willigan, Earl Main, Vernon Dickinson, Mark Grahek and Verne Holmes. Burial was in the Watauga cemetery.
William H. Hendrickson was born April 5, 1881 at Beresford, S.D. and was educated at Hurley. Prior to coming to this area he lived at Viborg. He homesteaded 10 miles south of Watauga in November 1911. In 1937, he purchased the Matkin farm and lived there for 11 years. He sold this place and moved to Watauga 7 years ago.
He was united in marriage to Sophia Kvalshaug at Beresford, Nov. 16, 1911. Three children were born to this union, Glen, Watauga, Willa (Mrs. Louis Woodward), Watertown and Eldonna (Mrs. Norman Dayton) Concord, Calif. His wife Sophia, died Jan. 12, 1928. He married Susan Henderson Nov. 15, 1928.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Susan, son Glen, daughters Willa and Eldonna, Nine grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and a sister Mrs. Clyde Baldwin, of Upton, Wyo. A stepdaughter, Mrs. Chester Sutton and stepson James Henderson preceded him in death.
The deceased was affiliated with the Presbyterian church, Masonic Lodge of Morristown and the Shriners of Aberdeen. Mr. Hendrickson was a farmer and active in the A.S.C. farm program since the beginning.
Taken from Corson County News October 20, 1955

Huber Funeral Services Held Here Wednesday

Funeral services were held from the First Baptist church in McIntosh Wednesday afternoon for Lydia Schweigert Huber. The Rev. Kiempel officiated. Burial was in the McIntosh cemetery.
Mrs. Huber suffered a stroke at her home Oct. 14 and had another attack that evening after entering the hospital at McLaughlin. She passed to her eternal reward and home the morning of October 29 at the age of 70 years, 2 months and 14 days.
She leaves to mourn her departure the following children; Fred of Ruper, Idaho; Margaret(Mrs. John Arnold), Albert, Jacob, Dan and Phillip, all of McIntosh and Lydia (Mrs. Sam Walker of Selfridge, 20 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and many other relatives and friends. Her parents, two brothers and one sister preceded her in death.
Lydia Schweigert Huber was born to Daniel and Carollyn Schweigert August 15, 1885 near Odessa, Russia. She was married to Andrew F. Huber on July 23, 1906. to this union 11 children, seven sons and four daughters were born. Two daughters and one son died in infancy. Another son, Andrew died at the age of 15 in November 1931. Her husband died January 17, 1938.
In March of 1910 the family immigrated to this country and settled at Herried. Six years later the family moved to the McIntosh vicinity. Mrs. Huber resided here until the time of her death. Mrs. Huber was the only remaining charter member of the First Baptist Church of McIntosh.
Taken from Corson County News November 3, 1955

Mrs. Karl Kern buried at McIntosh Friday

Funeral services for Mrs. Karl (Ernestena) Kern 55 of south of Watauga were held from the Presbyterian church in McIntosh Friday Oct. 28. The Rev. John McCandless officiated. Burial was in the McIntosh cemetery.
Norma Jameson, Helen Schulz and Mary Lou Brenner sang "Just As I Am" and "God is Love" Mrs. Walter Lawien was accompanist.
Pall bearers were William and Henry Moser, Henry Lang, Cecil Lang, L.G. Miller and Gilbert Meeker. Honorary pall bearers were Sebastian Seiler, Frank Lang, Fred, Christopher, Bill and Jake Kern.
Mrs. Kern died Tuesday October 25 at the Five Counties hospital in Lemmon. She had been ill about two weeks.
Surviving relatives include her husband Karl and son Arthur of Watauga, daughter Esther(Mrs. Herby Bakkehaug), McIntosh a sister Freda Nydigger of Oregon a brother Emanual Glaser of McLaughlin and three grandchildren.
Ernestena Glaser was born May 2, 1899 in south Russia. She received her formal education at New Leipzig, N.D. She was married to Karl Kern August 1, 1915 at Odess, N.D. Prior to settling south of Watauga in 1918 they lived near Elgin.
Taken from Corson County News November 3, 1955

Wm. Seymour Buried Monday

William Seymour of Las Vegas Nev. was buried at McIntosh Tuesday afternoon. He once lived south of Watauga, leaving that area in about 1936. He was buried beside a sister, Mrs. Clarence Wilson. Funeral services were conducted at the grave by the Rev. John McCandless of the McIntosh Presbyterian church. A brother Frank of Clinton, Iowa was present at the burial.
Taken from Morristown World July 3, 1953

M.L. Katus Dies at Morristown

Funeral services for the late M.L. Katus were held Monday afternoon at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church at Morristown.
Mr. Katus passed away at his home near Morristown at 5:45 p.m. July 9. He had suffered a stroke two years ago and was bedfast most of the time until his death. His wife and daughter were at his bedside at the time of his death.
The Rev. M.A. Radtke of Morristown delivered the sermon and handled the services. The church choir sang two songs, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" and "My Faith Looks up to Thee". The choir was accompanied by Mrs. Radtke on the organ.
Pallbearers were four sons of Mr. Katus, Clarence, Elwyn, Ralph and Paul and two son-in-laws, Fred Buhr and Tom Jameson. Interment was made in the Lemmon cemetery.
Out of town relatives at the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Katus and Berniece of Lemmon; Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Katus of Watauga; Mr. and Mrs. E.D. Katus and family of McItnosh, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Katus of Mahto; Bill Katus of Rapid City; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jamieson and family of Brainerd, Minn., and Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Tomasko of Minneapolis.
Michael Levi Katus was born in Czechoslovakia on Jan. 9, 1868. At the age of 7 he moved with his parents to America, settling on a farm near Streator, Ill., where he lived to manhood. On Jan. 9, 1891, he was married to Mary Liptak, also of Streator. To this union was born nine children, two of whom preceded him in death, Zelma, who died in infancy and Manley who died in Lemmon in 1932.
Mr. Katus operated a meat market in Streator for many years.
In 1915, Mr. Katus came to Corson county. In 1918, his family moved from Streator and joined him in Corson County on the farm southeast of Watauga. They lived on the farm near Watauga for 18 years.
During the drouth years he moved his livestock to Northern Minnesota near Brainerd. In 1938 he returned to South Dakota and rented the Voas farm just out of Morristown, living there for a few years. For the past ten years, he has made his home in the town of Morristown, where he was taken in death at the age of 85 years and 6 months. He leaves to mourn his passing his widow, two daughters, Mrs. Tom Jameson of Brainerd and Mrs. Fred Buhr of Morristown; five sons, William of Rapid City, Clarence of Lemmon, Elwyn of McIntosh, Ralph of Watauga and Paul of Mahto and 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Taken from Morristown World July 17, 1953

Services held at Watauga for Clarence Hoisington

The services were delayed for almost two hours as the family waited for a son, Keith, who came from his naval station on a ship in Cuba. There was difficulty contacting Keith following Mr. Hoisington's death. Keith flew from Cuba to Bismarck, N.D. and then came by plane to McIntosh to arrive in time for the funeral services. The family did not know Keith was going to be present for the funeral until he called from Bismarck about noon.
Pall bearers were the sons of Mr. Hoisington, Edmond, Clarence, Claire, Keith, Kenneth and Herbert.
Masonic rites were held at the graveside. Stanley Voas past Worshipful Master of the Standing Rock Lodge, conducted the Masonic services. Burial was made in the cemetery in Watauga.
Mr. Hoisington had moved into the Watauga community in 1931 and has been farming east of Watauga. He was clerk of the school board for several years, township supervisor for several years, a member of the AAA board and a member of the board of directors of the Watauga Equity Exchange at the time of his death. He was Worshipful Master of the Standing Rock Masonic lodge in 1951.
Survivors include the widow, six sons, two daughters-in-law. his mother Mrs. Emma Hoisington of Flandreau; four brothers, four sisters, five grandchildren an several nieces and nephews.
Friends and neighbors from every denomination and every walk of life filled the community hall and overflowed into the street in Watauga Monday afternoon as they came to pay their final respects to C.L. (Dick) Hoisington.
Mr. Hoisington passed away at his farm home east of Watauga early Tuesday morning, July 28 of a heart ailment. His death came as a sad surprise to his family and the community as Mr. Hoisington was thought to have been in good health. He complained of being tired before retiring the night before his death. About 4:30 in the morning he was seized by a coughing spell and in a few minutes was dead.
Services were conducted in the hall at Watauga by the Rev. John McCandless of the Presbyterian church. hymns were rendered by Carol Anderson, Mrs. Wm. Neumiller and Wm. Hendrickson with Mrs. Ed. Willigan accompanist.
Taken from the Morristown World August 7, 1953

Frank Tarjanji Dies Tuesday

Frank Tarjanji, 78 year old Watauga resident, died at the McLaughlin hospital early Tuesday morning. He had been in poor health for several years. Immediate cause of death was pneumonia and resulting complications.
Frank Tarjanji was born in Austria in 1875. He left Europe in 1899 and arrived in Columbus Ohio in 1901. He worked in a brick yard at Loren, Ohio, for a short time and spent six months in a glass factory in Toledo, Ohio. He then went to work in the Ohio coal mines and spent 25 years as a miner. In 1930 he came to Watauga with the money he had saved and brought a small farm on the outskirt of town. According to the report of a welfare worker he brought $1400 with him and paid $1200 for his small farm. He planned to spend the remainder of his life raising and selling garden products. The drought years and the limited market for vegetables wiped out his savings and he was not able to make a living from gardening.
Mr. Tarjanji had difficulty speaking and understanding English and so lived apart from the rest of the community most of the time. He was not married and had no living relatives in the United States as far as is known.
Taken from the Morristown World October 9, 1953

Jesse Nehl Dies at Lemmon Hospital

Jesse E. Nehl, long time resident of western Corson County, passed away at the Five Counties Hospital in Lemmon, January 8, 1963.
Funeral services were held from St. Michael's church at Watauga, at 10:00 a.m. January 12. Burial was made at the Watauga cemetery.
Pall bearers were Grover Davis, Glen Peters, Thomas Kane, Daniel Winter, Percy Behrman and Leo Keller.
Jesse E. Nehl was born at Alta Vista Iowa, October 20,1889. He was educated and grew to manhood in that state. He came to the Watauga community with his parents in 1907. He homesteaded about two miles south of Watauga and for many years operated grain elevators at Watauga, Keldron and Morristown.
He was married at Watauga in 1914 to Mary Lichter, who preceded him in death six years ago. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. John (Vyola) Lowe and Mrs. Don (Mary) Parr and a son Mark. One brother Walter and two sisters, Mrs. George (Clara) Baumesiter and Mrs. Wm. (Mabel) Lichter and eleven grandchildren.
Taken from Corson County News January 17, 1963

Requiem Mass Sung for Mrs. Mary Erz

Requiem High Mass and the Last Rites were held Thursday February 14, 1963 at 10:00 am. for Mrs. Mary M. Erz, 78 in the McIntosh St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, with the Rev. John Birdsall officiating.
Mrs. Erz passed away February 11 at her home. Death was attributed to a heart attack.
The St. Bonaventure choir sang the Mass accompanied by Mrs. Margaret Korsgaard. Mass servers were Dennis Erz, Watauga, Michael Erz, McIntosh(two of Mrs. Erz's grandsons), Bobby Trager, Donald Tishmack and Pat Simons all of McIntosh.
Interment was made in the St. Michael cemetery of Watauga near the grave of her husband John, who preceded her in death in 1933. Pall bearers were Tony Tishmack, Hubert Simons, Herbert Stoick and Alvin Jacobs, McIntosh; Dorus Mollman and Bernard Nehl, Watauga.
Mary M. Rubner Erz was born September 20, 1884 at Sherrills Mount, Iowa, where she was raised and educated. She was married to John M. Erz at Worthington, Iowa on October 23, 1906 and they lived in Hopkington Iowa for fifteen years. The John Erz family came to this area in 1921 settling in the Watauga community.
Mrs. Erz moved to McIntosh in 1941 and had been a resident here until her death. She was a member of the Ladies Society.
Mrs. Erz was a mother of twelve children, with two sons dying in infancy. She was also preceded in death by one son Alfred, who passed away in 1961 and a daughter, Margaret (Mrs. Clem Angel) who passed away in 1936.
She is survived by three sons, John Erz of McIntosh, Edmund of Watauga, and Vincent of Aberdeen. Five daughters, Mrs. George Colgrove (Florentine) of Lemmon; Mrs. Christine Angel of Utica Mich.; Mrs. Don Leadon (Armella) of Yakima, Washington; Mrs. Harry Wilson (Alvina) of Cass City, Mich.; and Mrs. Ray Henn (Mary) of Yakima Washington. She is also survived by two sisters, four brothers, forty-seven grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends.
All the children of Mrs. Erz attened the funeral service. Others attending outside of the McIntosh area included Norman Baumeister of Yakima, Wash; Ronald Erz of Sunnyside, Wash.; Mr. and Mrs. Buelis Baumeister of Burke S.D.; Mrs. Joe Ruhoff and Mrs. Fred Blow both of Sturgis, Mr. and Mrs. Ted Zimmerman of Carson N.D.
Taken from Corson County News February 21, 1963

Frank Burroughs Passes Away at Carson City

Frank Burroughs, a pioneer resident of Prairie View township south of Watauga, passed away in Carson City, Nevada, March 28th.
The Burroughs family came to the Watauga community in 1912. The family consisted of the parents and their children Frank, Clyde, Pearl and Birdie, all of whom have passed away.
Frank operated a farm south of Watauga until a few Years ago when he sold the farm to Bailey's. Frank was never married. He was soft-spoken and well respected by all who knew him. He was interested in public affairs and kept well informed on a variety of subjects. He was a veteran of the First World War and was decorated for bravery on he battlefield.
Word of his passing was received by Bailey from a nephew of Mr. Burroughs at Carson City.
Taken from Corson County News April 25, 1963

Last Rites Held for Mrs. Henry Afrank

Funeral services were held at Spencer Memorial Church Wednesday June 12, for Mrs. Henry Afrank. The Rev. Lee James was officiating clergyman at the rites. Mrs. Afrank passed away at the Five Counties Hospital at Lemmon June 8k. She was 86.
Mrs. Clarence Braught and Mrs. George Hill sang two of Mrs. Afrank's favorite hymns "The Lord is my Shepherd" and "Abide With Me" at the funeral service.
Molly Annetta Payne was born May 8, 1878 at Minburn, Ia., the daughter of William and Phenia Payne. She spent her early childhood and attended school there and later moved with her parents to Hawarden, Ia.
She was united in marriage to Harry Rose of Hawarden, November 8, 1897. To this union two daughters, Bessie Melville and Bernice Marie were born.
After the death of her husband in 1910, Mrs. Rose and her two children came to Morristwon and she made her home with her parents. On June 5, 1912, she was united to Henry Afrank of Morristown. They established their home in Pioneer township. One daughter, Mildred was born to them.
For forty years Mr. and Mrs. Afrank made their home on the farm in Pioneer township where they made a great number of friends. They retired and made their home for a time in Aberdeen. Mr. Afrank died in 1953 and Mrs. Afrank moved to Lemmon where she resided at the Five Counties Nursing Home at the time of her death.
She leaves to mourn her passing three daughters, eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Pall bearers chosen among long time friends and neighbors were Stanley McSweeney, Luther Englehorn, Vern Holmes, Walter Gibbs, Ralph Ruhoff and Russell Mollman. She was buried in Green Hill cemetery at Lemmon beside her husband.
Taken from Corson County News June 13, 1963

11 Year Old Sidney Hoisington Dies of Injuries Received in Tractor Mishap

Sidney Hoisington, 11, the son of Calvin and Phyllis Hoisington, died at a hospital in Bismarck Monday night of injuries received in a tractor accident on the farm of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Harvey, south of Watauga. The boy was riding to the field with Mr. Harvey and holding on to the fender or mud shield between the tractor seat and the rear wheel. Two bolts holding the fender broke and the boy tumbled under the tractor and a back wheel ran over him.
He was taken to the hospital at McLaughlin with Mrs. Robert Nehl, a registered nurse and neighbor of Harvey's in attendance. The boy was x-rayed at McLaughlin and an ambulance was called to take him to Bismarck. He died about 8 p.m. The boy was conscious on the trip to McLaughlin and able to talk.
Mrs. Virgil Anderson and Ed Soebbing arrived on the scene of the accident shortly after it happened and accompanied the party to McLaughlin in a station wagon belonging to Robert Tomac.
Funeral services will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at the Presbyterian church in McIntosh. The boy will be buried in the cemetery at Watauga.
Taken from Corson County News. August 29,1963

Services Held for Mrs. Fred Cook

Funeral services were held at Watauga, Monday Sept. 9 for Mrs. Ellen Katherine Lensing Cook, a long time resident of Watauga. She passed away Sept. 5th at 9 p.m. at St. Alexius hospital in Bismarck. Death was caused by abdominal cancer.
The Rev. Fr. Paul Dahms officiated at the 10 a.m. services in St. Michael's Catholic Church at Watauga. Pall bearers were Virgil Lensing, Bert Machnich, Dorus Mollman, Charles Hare, Ed Soebbing and Robert Baumeister.
Ellen Lensing was born at Boyd, Ia., January 22, 1892. She attended St. Bernard's Catholic school at Alta Vista.
She came to Corson county to visit relatives at Watauga and worked for a time as a merchandise clerk at Preszler's store. In 1919, she and Fred Cook were married at Alta Vista and came to live at Watauga, where Mr. Cook was a rural mail carrier.
Mrs. Cook had been ill since 1953.
Surviving relatives include G.J. Lensing, McIntosh, a brother; Mrs. Heinie Ostwinkle, Watauga, a sister; Susie Lightcap, Dubuque, Ia., a sister; August Lensing, St. Paul, Minn, a brother; Harold Lensing, St. Paul a nephew; Cyprion Lensing, Charles City Iowa, a brother, and Virgil Lensing, a foster son.
Relatives who came from a distance to attend the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Harold Lensing and A.H. Lensing of St. Paul Minn; Virgil Lensing and a brother-in-law Bert machnick of Waukegan, Ill; Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Lensing, Choteau, Mont; Mr. and Mrs. Larry Lensing, Cheyenne, Wyo; Mrs. Susan Lightcap, Dubuque Ia; Andrew Lensing, St. Paul; Mr. and Mrs. Donald Wilhelm and son Lonnie and Mrs. Leroy Deerfield of Waterloo, Ia; Henry Cook, Madison S.D.; Leo Cook, Sioux Falls, Mrs. bill Cook, Madison and Mrs. McFall of Rapid City.
Taken from Corson County News September 19, 1963

Funeral Services Held at Watauga For Paul Axtell Jr.

Funeral services were held from St. Michael's Catholic Church in Watauga Monday for Paul Axtell Jr., 35. he passed away November 7 at a Veteran's Hospital at Miles City, Mont., of a heart ailment.
Pall bearers, chosen from among friends of the young man, were Bob Tomac, Ed Erz, Mr. Doyle, Richard Glines, Jed Turner and Charles Hare.
Paul Axtell Jr. was born to Susie and Paul Axtell Sr., April 20, 1928. He grew to young manhood on a ranch south of McIntosh and attended school at McIntosh.
In June, 1953 he was united in marriage to Theresa Brown at Selby. The young couple moved to the Axtell ranch and made their home there for several years. to this union were born two daughters, Rita Ann and Loretta Kay.
In 1957, the family moved to Morristown where he was employed on a farm. In 1959, they moved to Watauga and established a home. He kept his position as a foreman on the Nelson ranch. The past summer Mr. Axtell was not feeling well and he entered the Veteran's Hospital for treatment.
He leaves to mourn his passing his wife Theresa and two children, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Axtell Sr.. of Mt. Holm, Idaho; his granmother, Mrs. Ella Axtell of Newtown, North Dakota; two brothers Ray and Willis and a sister Mrs. Jones (Dorothy) of Broderick, California.
Taken from Corson County News November 14, 1963

Mrs. Joseph Mock Passes Away at 85

Mrs. Joseph Mock, one of the oldest residents of Watauga, passed away at the hospital in McLaughlin April 8. Funeral services were held in St. Michael's church in Watauga and she was buried in the cemetery at Watauga. She was 85.
Mrs. Mock had lived in the hotel at McIntosh, during the winter and had just moved back to her home in Watauga when she was taken ill.
Margaret Beulus was born January 26, 1879, at Eau Claire, Wisc. She was educated and grew up at Eau Claire.
In December 1900 she was married to Joseph Mock. the young couple made their home at Redfield for several years. To this union four sons were born, Richard, who preceded her in death, Edward of Portland, Ore., Joseph of Los Angeles and Max of Redfield.
From Redfield the family moved to a homestead near Leith, N.D. where they lived until 1917 when they moved to Watauga where Mrs. Mock lived until she died.
Mrs. Mock was a devoted wife, a loving mother and an immaculate housekeeper. Even in her advanced age she kept her house and yard in perfect order. She loved flowers and always had beautiful plants in her house and during the summer flowers adorned the yards.
Her husband and oldest son preceded her in death. She leaves to mourn her passing three sons, six sisters, Mrs. John Keating of Winsted, Minn., Mrs. Kathryn Hagen of Duvall, Wash., Mrs. Bella Geiverkrop, Mrs. Mayne Ashford and Mrs. Willard Ward, all of Minneapolis and six grandchildren.
Attending the funeral from out of town were Mr. and Mrs. John Keating, Mrs. Ashford and her son Edward; Leola Gehring, Salt Lake City, a granddaughter; Mr. and Mrs. Dick Mock and children of Lemmon.
Pall bearers were Fred Buhr, Viggo Thomsen, Adrian Willigan, Gerald Turner, Herb Wolff and Lincoln Winters.
Taken From Corson County News April 16, 1964

Henry Ostwinkle buried at Watauga

Henry Ostwinkle was buried at Watauga Monday, August 3. Services were held from St. Michael's Catholic Church beginning at 9:30 in the morning with the Rev. Paul G. Dahms officiating.
Ostwinkle passed away at the hospital in Lemmon July 30. He was 82.
Heinie, as he had been called by generations who were born and raised at Watauga, had been a part of that community since 1912. He had been cutting hair at Watauga for almost half a century.
Almost anyone who has ever lived in or near Watauga recalls with affection the mild-mannered, soft spoken barber, the faint aroma of cigar smoke about his shop and the friendly atmosphere that prevailed there. He also ran a confectionery, with the help of his wife.
Pall bearers at the funeral services were Paul Soebbing, Robert Nehl, Cleo Lensing, Vernon Birrenkott, Vincent Erz, and Charles Hare. He was buried in the cemetery at Watauga.
Heine Ostwinkle was born in Hettinger, Germany November 28, 1882. He came to the United States with his parents when he was 18 months old.
His parents settled at Dyersville Iowa, where he was educated. He served an apprenticeship as a barber while a young man and worked in a barber shop in Dyersville for several years. He then went to Alta Vista, Ia., where he operated a barber shop for about ten years.
He was married to Lucy Lensing in Alta Vista in 1908. They moved to the Watauga vicinity in 1912. Mr. Ostwinkle filed on a homestead about 2 miles north of Watauga, with part of his land in North Dakota. He and his wife lived on the homestead until 1921. He barbered twice a week while taking care of his other work on the homestead.
In 1921 they moved to Watauga where he opened a barber shop and restaurant. With the exception of a few years which he spent in a barber shop at McIntosh he lived and worked in Watauga until he passed away.
He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Lucy and an adopted son, Francis Ostwinkle of Hopewell, Va., and two brothers, Bill of Worthinkton Ia., and Carl of Algoona, Ia; one sister, Lizzie McGrane of Alma, Ia., and a host of friends.
Out of state people who attended the funeral included Mr. and Mrs. Docland Vilharm and son of Sumner, Ia.; Mrs. Dierfield of Waterloo, Ia.; Mr. and Mrs. Cyprion Lensing of Charles City, Ia.; Andrew Lensing and daughter of Dubuque, Ia. and Francis Ostwinkle of Hopewell.
Taken from Corson County News August 6, 1964

Dean W. Scholes Passes Away at 68

Funeral services for Dean W. Scholes, 68, Watauga, S.Dak., were held from the Bethesda Lutheran Church south of Leith Tuesday Sept. 15. The Rev. G.G. Newberger officiated and burial was made in the church cemetery.
Pall bearers were John and Stuart Striegle, Jack Chesrown, Duane Sabin, Trygve Olson and Grant Hauge. Mr. Scholes died in the Elgin hospital on Friday afternoon, Sept. 11 of a heart condition. He had been in ill health for 2 years and in the hospital one day.
He was born in Greenfield Iowa on June 6, 1896, a son of William and Lillian Gibbs Scholes.
He attended schools in Armour S.D., Sioux City, Iowa and Shattuk Military Academy, Fairboult, Minn. He married Roainne Hotham at Yankton S.D. on July 1, 1916. In 1917 they came to North Dakota and farmed 26 miles south of Carson. He was active in civic and community affairs and served on the township and school boards.
He leaves his wife, 4 sons, Bill of Carson, Walter of Stanton, James of Sioux Falls, and Allison of Carson; six daughters, Mrs. Earl (Donna) Lewis, Santa Clara, Cal.; Mrs. Earl (Jane) Nehl, Edmonds Wash; Mrs. Ardath (Dorothy) Hauge, Watauga; Mrs. Jerry (Hazel) Staudenrous, Seattle, Wash; Mrs. Curtis (Lucille) Thornton, Tempe, Ariz; and Mrs. Monte(Margery) Walker, Olympia, Wash; 31 grandchildren, one great grandchild; one brother Lyle of San Marino, Cal; and one sister, Mrs. Paul Osbun, Vista Cal.
They Meyer Funeral Home, Elgin was in charge of arrangements.
Taken from Corson County News September 24, 1964

Final Rites Held for William Brenner

The last rites were said for William Brenner, 75 of McIntosh, Thursday afternoon November 5, 1964 at the McIntosh United Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Walter Klempel, pastor of the McIntosh First Baptist Church officiating.
Mrs. John Arnold and Mrs. Herbert Geigle sand "Saved By Grace" and "Asleep in Jesus" accompanied by Mrs. Wesley Arnold.
Interment was made in the McIntosh cemetery. Pall bearers were Christ Bossert of Isabel, Henry Moser, Rudy Wagner, Edwin Moser of McIntosh, Martin Hilsendager and Stuart Striegel of Watauga.
William Brenner passed away Sunday evening, Nov. 1 at 7:00 p.m. in the McLaughlin hospital. Death was attributed to a stroke. He was ill for 6 days.
William Brenner was born Sept 12, 1889 in Odessa, Russia. On Feb. 29, 1916 he married Margaret Huether at Alpena, S.D., where they resided for a time. They came to this area in 1919, settling 13 miles south of McIntosh. They resided in Elgin, N.D., twelve miles north of Watauga and ten miles north of McIntosh, prior to retiring from farm life and moving into McIntosh several years ago. He was a member of the McIntosh First Baptist Church.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Margaret Huether Brenner of McIntosh, five sons, Clarence and Emil of California, Charley of Montana, Ruben of Isabel and Robert of Watauga, three daughter, Mrs. Helen Dobretx and Mrs. Emma Handel, both of California, and Mrs. Bertha Schadler of Elgin, N.D., several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Taken from Corson county News November 12, 1964

Harry Davitt Rites held at McIntosh

The Requiem Mass and Last Rites were said Wednesday, November 25, 1964 for Harry William Davitt, 76, of McIntosh, who passed away Sunday evening, November 2 in the St. John's Hospital of Rapid City. He was ill and in the hospital for five weeks.
The Rev. Father John Birdsall sang the Requiem Mass in the St. Bonaventure's Catholic Church of McIntosh, assisted by the St. Bonaventure's Choir accompanied by Mrs. Margaret Korsgaard.
Interment was made in the McIntosh Catholic Cemetery. Pall bearers were Willie Lovitt of Spearfish, E.D. Katus, Harry Kittelson, Ralph McClain, Pete Lemer and Sebastian Seiler all of McIntosh.
Harry Wm. Davitt was born July 30, 1888 in Green Isle, Minn., where he was reared and educated. In 1914, he was married to Delphine Doland at St. Paul, Minn. The Davitts came to this vicinity in 1915 settling near Watauga where they ranched until 1938. They then moved to McIntosh where they have resided since, Mr.. and Mrs. Davitt had two children, Jean and Bryon. Bryon passed away in 1942. Three brother and his parents also preceded him in death.
Surviving relatives include his widow, Delphine, of McIntosh; his daughter, Mrs. John Nehl of Rapid city and three grandsons, Doyle, Bruce and Jeff Nehl.
Taken from Corson County News December 3, 1964