Hancock County Historical Society
Carthage, IllinoisSiegfried XIII
Page 20MRS. LINN CALLIHAN
"Carried by the angels to the land of rest."
On April 10, 1922, Minnie, beloved wife of Linn D. Callihan, passed to her heavenly home, aged 39 years 1 month and 28 days.
In this time of universal sickness and suffering when sorrow has entered many homes when the coming of the death angel has saddened many hearts, no event has carried with it keener grief, nor deeper regret, than the passing of this dear woman who has brought such valued help and blessing to the different circles in which she moved.
Minnie Louise Seibert was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Seibert. She was born at the old homestead, one and one-half miles north of Fountain Green, February 12th, 1883. She developed into lovely girlhood -- lovely in every sense of the word. Her nature and her training well fitting her for the duties of life she has met so faithfully. Her district school days were followed by a course of study at the Nauvoo High school, from which she graduated when sixteen years of age. She had much musical talent, which was also carefully cultivated.
After a short period of successful teaching she became the wife of Linn D. Callihan, of Fountain Green, April 9th, 1908. Their wedded life has been most ideal -- one in interest, one in sympathy, one in love, and one in Christ.
With the agonized grief of this bereft husband can be mingled no regret for kindness neglected, nor duty undone. Two children brought much joy and blessing to their heart and home. A daughter, Lillian, now 12 years old, and a son, James Richard, aged three. Mrs. Callihan is also survived by her parents and by two sisters, Mrs. Stella White, of Blandinsville, and Mrs. Clara Geddes, of near Fountain Green.
This first break in this devoted family brings deepest grief, which is shared by a very large circle of relatives and friends in whose affections this good woman held so sure a place. Some two years ago Mrs. Callihan began suffering from a malady which alarmed her family and has since been the cause of a growing anxiety which has greatly deepened these last passing months.
A week ago she was brought from her own home, three miles north of town, to her father's in Fountain Green that threatening and serious symptoms could be more closely watched by attending physicians. Her strength waning and added complications arising, medical authority found that a surgical interference, attempted as a last resort, was all that could make recovery possible.
With men who stand at the head of their profession in charge of her case the operation was accomplished with a skill and expedition which promised good results and from which she rallied promptly. But the vitality sapped by suffering, failed to withstand this added strain and her life -- whose continuance could, at best, have been but of short duration, and filled with suffering -- began to ebb rapidly.
Painlessly and peacefully the closing hour was passed. Conscious to the last, she gave messages to the loved ones gathered about her, the memory of which must surely bring cheer and comfort as the dark days come and go.
Minnie was converted in early girlhood and united with the M. E. church. Later, with her husband, transferring her membership to the Presbyterian church of Fountain Green, where they have been numbered with its must loyal and beloved adherents. Her Christian life has been marked by unwavering fidelity to the different departments of church activity. Thoroughly capable and entirely willing she was a most valued and efficient helper. Her church duties held first place in her plans and were never neglected for anything else. No words can express the sorrow and regret felt in the ranks her passing has broken.
Minnie's beautiful life needs no lengthy eulogy. To those who knew her, her name and memory will ever stand for all that is lovely, good and true. The dear ones whose lives have been so enriched by her love and companionship know that a great blessing has been theirs, and now she has just gone on a little way where sheltered and safe in the "Refuge" which so long has been her sure reliance she awaits their coming.
Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church, at Fountain Green, Wednesday, April 12th. Rev. Claggatt officiating. Burial in La Harpe cemetery.
