Contact: Westoncemetery@yahoo.com to contribute an obit.

Here are more obits from the sourthern parts of Lenawee Co. These are located on the US Gen Web, MI, Lenawee Co. Thanks Mary Teeter!

http://www.geocities.com/lenaweemi/obitsA-L.html

http://www.geocities.com/lenaweemi/obitsM-Z.html

June 24, 1967, Adrian Daily Telegram
Gordon Allen (NW Plot 19)
Morenci- Gordon Allen, 73, died at 1:30 pm Saturday at his residence at 224 Orchard Drive. He had been in failing health for a year.
Mr. Allen was born Oct 23, 1893, in Weston.  He married Gertrude Bryant Aug. 31, 1918, at Sand Creek.  They lived until 1947 at Sand Creek, moving fro there to Morenci.  He was employed by the Porter Lumber Co. until he retired in 1961 and for 28 years was a field representative for the Smith Silo Co.
Mr. Allen was a member of the Morenci Baptist Church, the choir and KYB Class and was a soloist for many years. He is survived by his wife; one son, Bryant Allen of Utica; a daughter, Mrs. Geraldine Green of Sand Creek; a brother, Elbridge Allen of Battle Creek; a sister, Mrs. Harry (Lucille) Quick of Seneca; six grand children and two great grand children.
The funeral will be Tuesday at 2 pm at the Charles Fink Funeral Home, the Rev. C.W. Lancaster and the Rev. John Allen officiating. Burial will be in Weston Cemetery.

Adrian Daily Telegram, March 26, 1920

Hartula Baker is dead in Fairfield (Fairfield no stone)

Jasper-Mrs. Hartula Baker, aged 70 years, widow of the late Horace Baker died at the home of her son Erie Baker, of disease.  She had been a resident of this place 813 Comstock Street, Adrian last night at 11:43 of a complication for many years and was visiting her son when she was taken sick. 

She is survived by one son Erie of Adrian and one daughter Mrs. C. E. Pollock of this place.  Funeral will be Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Baptist Church of Fairfield with burial in Fairfield Cemetery. (No stone found in Fairfield Cem., will check Cem. records.)

Contributed & comments:  Sue L drelatives@hotmail.com

(I have not found her grave in the Fairfield Cemetery. Daughter Leora Pollock, her husband Charles and their

grandson are buried at Fairfield Cemetery.)

July 10, 1902, Unknown Newspaper Source (OW Plot 152, row 24)

Floyd Barnes only son of Mr and Mrs C W Barnes, died at his home one mile north of Weston,

Thursday July 10, 1902.  He was born in the township of Fairfield, December 16, 1875, his age

at the time of his death being 26 years 6 months 24 days.  His home had always been In the same

vicinity.  Something over three years ago his health began to fail and in July 1899, he went to

Colorado with the hope that he might fully regain his health.  But it seems it was to be otherwise.

Consumption had become seated and all efforts to throw it off met with failure.  He returned

to his home here in September of last year, since which time he has been gradually failing

and for the last five weeks had been confined to his bed.  His suffering which at times was intense,

was borne with patience endeavoring at all times to make as little trouble for those who cared

for him as possible.  He was quite a favorite with the people of the community and his early death

will be sincerely mourned by a large circle of relatives and friends.  Besides his parents, he is

survived by one sister, Miss Dora Barnes.

Funeral services were held in the Baptist church at Weston Saturday afternoon, Rev FM Spooner

officiating, assisted by Rev H B Taft.

December 13, 1993, Adrian Daily Telegram

Marian Beavers (Fairfield C-28-3)

Manitou Beach- Marian Rachel Beavers, 74 of Manitou Beach died Sunday, December 12, 1993 at her home.

She was born January 14, 1919, in Adrian to Benjamin F and Alta (Hough) Moran.  In 1936, she graduated from Sand Creek High School.  On September 19, 1953, she married Edward E Beavers.  He survives.

Mrs. Beavers was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary; a member and for 21 years was the secretary of Adrian Fraternal Order of Eagles; then a member of the Irish Hills Fraternal order of Eagles Chapter #3689, past Madam President and member of the Grand Auxiliary of F.O.E.; and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary #11148.

Survivors include her husband; two brothers, Benjamin Moran of Sand Creek and Jim Moran of Adrian; one sister, Ardith Hoover of Hawaii.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Charles F Moran and one sister, Helen Duncan.

The funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Everiss-Wagley Funeral Home with Dr John Dawson officiating. 

Burial will be in Madison Center Cemetery.[incorrect-in Fairfield C-28-3] Visitation will be today from noon until 9 p.m.  Memorial services will be conducted at the funeral home starting at 7 p.m. by the Adrian V.F.W. Auxiliary and at 8 p.m. by the Irish Hills Fraternal Order of Eagles.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lenawee.  Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

Contributed by Lois Wilson:  cgwlaw@comcast.net

(Unknown newspaper source)

Homer "Bill" Bixler (NW Plot 58 row 7)
Gladwin- Homer "Bill" Bixler, 78, of Gladwin, passed away Tuesday Oct 18, 2005, at his home.
He was born June 9, 1927, to Corbill and Erma Bixler in Weston. On Sept 1, 1945, he married Mildred Fox.  She preceded him in death on July 12, 1995.  Homer served in the US Marine Corps from 1945-1946.  He was employed by the Detroit Water Dept. for 25 1/2 years, retiring in 1987.  He enjoyed watching the birds and other wildlife.  He also enjoyed his friends and their families.
Homer is survived by his two sons, "Mick" Bixler of Detroit and Stephen (Frances) Bixler of Gladwin; one daughter, Donna (Richard) Whipple of Jasper; six sisters, Irene (Dennis) Dowling of Winamac, IN., Viola (George) Cochran of Adrian, Ida Baldwin and Margret Butler of Weston, Martha Harris of Sand Creek, Jean Higley of Jasper; six grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one son, two brothers and three sisters.
At his request, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Adrian Daily Times, Thursday, August 10, 1893, pg 2

Obituary – Alice Stout-Blain  (Ridgeville B-12-5)

Alice Stout-Blain daughter of John R Stout was born in Fairfield, this county Jan 11, 1858.  At the age of 20 years she was married to Benjamin Blain on October 1, 1878.  She died August 7, 1898 after an illness of several months.

She leaves two sons, Peter M aged 9 years and Arthur aged 6 years, four brothers and four sisters, an aged father & mother, and also a bereaved husband.

The life of Mrs. Blain was such that all who knew her loved her and we extend our heart felt sympathy to the bereaved ones.

Nov 18, 1942, Adrian Daily Telegram, pg 6 col 5

Heart Attack Fatal to Benjamin Blaine (Ridgeville B-12-6)

Had lived in Adrian and county for 87 years. 

Benjamin Blaine 87 years old a resident of Lenawee County his entire life,

died this morning at 3 o'clock at his home at 718 Company St. Although in

gradual failing health for the last one or 2 years, Mr. Blaine has been up

and around as usual this week.

For the last 30 years Mr. Blaine had lived in Adrian.  Before that he owned

and operated a farm in Fairfield Twp.  At one time he was an automobile sales

Sept 13, 1963, Adrian Daily Telegram

Jennie E Blain (OW Plot 166)

The death of Mrs Jennie E Blain of 718 Company Street, widow of Benjamin Blain, occurred

Tuesday at 3:30 pm at 903 East Maumee Street.  She was 87 years old.

Born Aug. 13, 1876, in Weston, she was the daughter of Solomon and Emma J Service Force. 

She married Benjamin Blain July 9, 1910, at Weston and he preceded her in death in 1942. 

Mrs Blain taught in rural schools for 17 years.  She was president of the Lenawee County Humane

Society for 18 years and was active in the society's work her entire life.

During the war years Mrs. Blain was employed at the Hurd Lock plant. Before coming to Adrian

46 years ago, she was a resident of the Weston area.  She was a member of the First Baptist church.

Surviving are one son, Leland Blain of Route 1, Sand Creek; one stepson Arthur Blain of Adrian;

one brother, Clarence Force of Adrian; four grand children, two great grandchildren and nine step

grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by two sisters and two brothers.

The funeral will be Friday at 2 pm in the Braun Funeral Home, the Rev. H D Halsey officiating. 

Burial will be in Weston cemetery.

April 23, 1996, Adrian Daily Telegram (Ridgeville, B-12-2)

Sand Creek Leland M Blain 80, of Sand Creek, died Sunday April 21, 1996 at Bixby

Medical Center.

He was born on June 9, 1915, in Fairfield Twp to Benjamin Blain and Jennie Force.

Leland was a 1935 graduate of Adrian High School and later attended the University

of Chicago, studying refrigeration.  On Jan 16, 1935, he married Hildreth Rinehart in

LaGrange, IN. For more than 26 years, Mr. Blain was employed with Revco in Deer-

field and then was a co-owner of Scientemp Corporation in Adrian, retiring when he

was 70 year old.  He attended Sand Creek Community Church; was a life member of

Fairfield Masonic Lodge #125, having served as past Worshipful Master, and a member

And past Worthy Patron of the Fairfield Chapter Order of the Eastern Star.  Leland

Enjoyed many hobbies, including being an amateur ham radio operator, with sign

Number KA8ALO; camping and deer hunting.

Besides his wife, Hildreth, Mr. Blain is survived by two sons, Dalton Blain of Adrian

And Carl Blain of Blissfield;  one daughter, Mrs. Norma Snyder of Redwood City, CA

Eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Leland was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Barbara Ann Kronberg; two

half brothers, Arthur and Peter Blain; and a half sister, Vivian.

The funeral service will be 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Everiss-Wagley Funeral Home, with

The Rev. Richard Jorden officiating.  Burial will follow in Ridgeville Cemetery in

Fairfield Twp.  The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday.  The Fairfield

Masonic Lodge #125 will conduct a memorial service at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the

Funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fairfield Masonic Lodge #125.  Envelopes are

Available at the Everiss-Wagley Funeral Home.

Nov. 13, 1909, The Adrian Daily Telegram, p 8, col 6

Mrs. Lizzie Still Blain (OW Plot 113)

Mrs. Lizzie Still Blain was born in Madison township, Mich., May 30,

1867. She was united in marriage with Benjamin Blain, March 25, 1894.

The home was blessed with one daughter. Mrs. Blain was forever happy doing those kindnesses for

others, which make life worth while. She was taken from the scenes of earth November 9, 1909,

and from apparently good health, with but a brief illness. She leaves a husband, one daughter,

Miss Vivian at home, two sisters Miss Cloe [sic] Still, who lived with her, and Mrs. Henry

Goods of Palmyra, a father Joseph Still, who also lived with her and a large circle of friends.

She was a noble wife and mother and a considerate neighbor and her loss will be felt keenly

in her home and community.

The funeral was held at the home Thursday at eleven o'clock, W.T. Lockwood, pastor of the Dover

church officiating. The music was rendered by the Sand Creek quartette [sic]. The beautiful

floral offerings were expressive of the high esteem in which she was regarded by her friends

and neighbors. Interment was made at the Weston cemetery.

Note: By tracking this family through the census records, it is apparent

that Lizzie, Susan and Chloe Still were the daughters of Joel and Emma

(Voorhees) Still, not Joseph Still. Joel (b. c 1844) and Joseph Still

(b. c 1833) were two of the ten children of James Smith Still

(1801-1863) and Elizabeth Tompkins (1803-1869), my several

gr-grandparents.  ~Leslie Parsels, parsels@med.umich.edu

(Unknown Newspaper Source)

Myron D. Blain (Fairfield E-28-5)
Myron D. Blain was born in New York State, Allegheny County, July 16, 1831.  At the age of three
years he came with his parents to Toledo, which was then a mere treading station, consisting of
a few log buildings and only one frame building.
They came by boat and later traveled with an ox team as was customary for the early settlers,
enduring all the hard ships and privations and dangers incident to pioneer life as he grew up with
the new country.
(The family first camped on what is known as the Beulah farm, near Whiteville, Ohio and afterwards
located on a farm in Fulton county.)
He was married Nov. 7, 1854, to Mary Parent by the Rev. S.D.Rogers.  To this union five children
were born: Josephine, who died in 1910; Samuel C. Blain of Jasper, Hattie LaPoint of Toledo,
Mary Mackey of Ridgeville, and Benjamin Blain of Adrian.
Of a family of 11 children only two sisters survive him, Jane Hyland (Hallnan) and Fannie (Cordelia)
Beals of Toledo.  Besides these he leaves a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Loyal to his country, Mr. Blain enlisted when the Civil War broke out, in the 67th Regiment, Company
F, of Ohio serving three years and three months.
Here, too, he endured untold hardships as did many of his comrades, being many times without food
and comfortable clothing and exhausted by long, continued marching, all for his home, loved ones
and his country.
As long as he was able he attended the soldiers reunions and looked forward to the day as one of the
best days of the year.
Helping as he did in the early settling of the country, Mr. Blain took great interest in watching its progress and development and had vivid mental pictures of the past, relating names of friends, places and incidents with accuracy as though it was only yesterday.  Memories of former years seemed a great comfort to him in his declining years.
His life companion was taken by death January 14, 1905, since which time he has made his home with the younger son on the farm where he settled 54 years ago, south of Jasper, Michigan.
His willingness to help in time of need made him many friends.  He led a quiet, unassuming life and was
known as an honest, upright citizen, a loyal friend and neighbor.
His was a life well spent and he shall surely receive the reward to which he was called Nov. 29, 1920.
The burial was made in Fairfield cemetery.

(Unknown Newspaper Source)

Mrs. Mary E Blain (Fairfield E-28-5)
Wednesday evening, at 6 o'clock, at the home of her son, S.C. Blain, occurred the death of Mrs. Mary
E. Blain, death being due to consumption.  She has been more or less a sufferer for several years,
and now she is at rest.  All that skill and loving care could do has been done for her.  The husband and
children will sadly miss her presence in the home.
Mary Parent was born November 27, 1834 in Spencer, Medina county, was the daughter of Benjamin
and Betsey Parent, and was one of six children, four of whom survive her.  In 1854 she was united in
marriage with Myron D. Blain, of Ohio.  Five children blessed their home.
At the time of her death she was 70 years, 1 month and 15 days old.  She is survived by her husband
and her five children; Benjamin Blain, of Madison; Mary Mackey of Metamora O.; Josephine and Hattie
Lapoint, of Blissfield and Samuel Blain, of Jasper.  Also two sisters and two brothers; Mrs. Santee of
Delta, O.; Mrs Denier, of Petersburg; Mr Nathaniel Parent, of Royalton, O.; and Henry Parent, also of
Royalton, Ohio.
The funeral was conducted from the house Saturday at 11 am Rev. Bettis officiating, with interment at
Fairfield cemetery.

(Unknown Newspaper Source)

Mrs. Maud E Blain (Fairfield E-28-4)
Mrs. Maud E Blain, 80 years old, widow of Samuel C Blain of Jasper, died at 10 am Sunday at her
home after an extended illness. She was born March 23, 1875, near Weston, the daughter of Robert
and Aline Lane Service. Mrs. Blain spent her entire life in Lenawee County.
She married Mr. Blain March 19, 1896. He preceded her in death Jan 9, 1935. She attended the
United Brethren Church at Jasper and was a member of the Sunshine Society.
Mrs. Blain is survived by two grandsons, Gerald and Gayle Righter of Jasper; a brother, Vern Service
of Adrian and two sisters, Mrs. Elsie Ries and Frieda Service, both of Adrian. Besides her husband
she was preceded in death by a daughter, Mrs. Gladys Righter in May 1952.
The funeral will be held Wednesday at 1:30 pm at the Everiss Funeral Home. The Rev Samuel Seizert
of the United Brethren church will officiate and burial will be in Fairfield cemetery.

Adrian Daily Telegram, Thursday, March 14, 1935, pg 6 col 4 (Ridgeville, B-12-4)

Peter M Blain of 727 Erie Street aged 50 years died last evening at 6:30 o’clock in the Emma L Bixby Hospital where he had been a patient for the last two weeks suffering with a heart ailment.  He was employed by the Schwarze Electric Co. until his illness three weeks ago.

Mr. Blain is survived by his wife Goldie and four sons, Ralph, Eugene, Robert and Gail.  His father Benjamin Blain of Adrian and two brothers, Leland Blain of Adrian and Arthur Blain of Fairfield.

The funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock in Mott funeral home with the Rev. Clarence P Parker of Christ Episcopal Church officiating.  The burial will be in the Ridgeville Cemetery.

Dec 10, 1935, Adrian Daily Telegram, pg 6 col 4
Samuel Blain (Fairfield E-28-4)
Samuel Blain, aged 60 years, of Jasper died at 10:20 o'clock last night in the Emma L Bixby Hospital.
He is survived by the widow Mrs. Maude Blain, one daughter Mrs. Gladys Righter, one brother
Benjamin Blain of Adrian, 2 sisters; Mrs. Mary Mackey of Morenci and Mrs. Hattie LaPoint of
Toledo and 2 grandsons.
The funeral will be held Fri afternoon at 2 o'clock in the home and the burial will be in the Fairfield
Cemetery.

(Unknown newspaper source)
Donald Buehrer (NW Plot 57)
Weston- Donald Benjamin Buehrer, age 87, of Weston died Tuesday, Dec 20, 2005, at Lenawee Medical Care Facility.
He was born May 8, 1918, in Palmyra to Benjamin and Anna (Schulz) Buehrer.  He married Florence Irene Hayes on Sept 1, 1946.  She preceded him in death on Sept 7, 2001. He served in the US Air Corps from 1942-1946.  Donald retired from Kewaunee Scientific on Jan 29, 1981. He was a member of the American Legion Post #275.
Donald is survived by three sons, Paul Buehrer of Weston, Keith Buehrer and his wife Bev of Jasper and Neil Buehrer and his wife, Linda of Sand Creek; two brothers, Elwyn Buehrer of Adrian and Dale Buehrer and his wife, Elaine of Jackson; two sisters, Alice Reed and her husband, Don of Salisbury, MD;
and Eleanor Jones of Adrian; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.  In addition to his wife , Florence, he was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, Dec. 23, 2005, at 10 a.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home with the Rev. Lloyd Jewett officiating.  Burial will be in Weston Cemetery with full military rites conducted by the VFW Annis-Flint Post #1584.  Visitation will be held Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Anderson
Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fairfield Township Fire Department.  Envelopes are available at the Anderson Funeral Home.

Unknown Newspaper Source

Gardner H Davis, A resident of Lenawee County since 1836, a year before the birth of the state of MI, Garnder H Davis a highly respected resident of Fairfield Twp, passed away Tuesday morning at 10:45, from a general breaking down, Mr. Davis having failed for the past year.  Deceased was born in Palmyra, NY, Oct 25, 1834, and came to Palmyra, this county, in 1836, with his people.  He was the son of Charles and Polly Davis, on of seven children, three of whom survive – Mrs. Louisina Nickerson, of Buffalo; Mrs. Helen Osborne, of Milwaukee, and Franklin Davis of Graves, Ore. He was next to the youngest of this family, Mrs. Osborne being the youngest.  Nov. 23, 1865, Mrs. Davis was united in marriage with Mrs. Jane A Pelton, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clark Angell, of Ogden, who died Oct 1, 1882. Two sons were born to this union, Elwood F Davis, who resides on the home farm, one mile south and one mile east of Jasper; and Irving C Davis, manager of the City Hotel in this city. After the death of his wife Mr. Daivs followed the carpenter’s trade, residing at Jasper, but again became a farmer after his second marriage, buying the farm above mentioned.  The second wife, who now survives, was before her marriage to him Mrs. Cornelia Perdue, of Jasper.  Mr. Davis, formerly a member of Adrian Lodge, #19 F&AM of this city, later withdrew to join Fairfield Lodge, #12, F&AM, and was also a member of Fairfield Grange.  Mr. Davis took a great deal of interest in both lodge and grange.  He was a frank, outspoken man, entertaining in conversation, firm in his beliefs, fond of his family, though rather undemonstrative, and with a host of friends.  The funeral will be conducted Thursday at 1 pm from the Disciples church at Jasper, Rev. W J Gray of the Free Baptist church at Fairfield to officiate. Fairfield Cemetery E-29-8

Contributed by Julia Klink

Adrian Daily Telegram, Tuesday, February 25, 2008, pg 2A

Sarah Eloise (Rathbun) Clark Obit (Fairfield)

ADRIAN — Eloise Clark, age 100, of Adrian died Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008, at Tendercare of Adrian.

She was born Oct. 1, 1907, in Sand Creek, Mich., to Jarvis and Marnir (Shea) Rathbun. On Dec. 31, 1936, she married Wayne Clark in LaGrange, Ind. He preceded her in death in December of 1971. Eloise attended the Weston Church. She was a fan of the Detroit Tigers, Lions and Pistons. She loved to garden.

Eloise is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mary Clark of Adrian; her grandchildren, David Clark, Deborah and Dennis Pifer, Diane Clark, Daniel Clark, Deanna Clark, Denise Clark, and Deloris and Michael Osborne; two great-grandchildren, Jack Pifer and Carter Clark; and five nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Wayne, she was preceded in death by a son, John Clark; a daughter, Jean Ward; and three brothers, Carroll, LeLand and Ivan.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday, Feb. 28, 2008, at 1:30 p.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian, with the Rev. Greg Burdine officiating. Burial will be in the Fairfield Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian. Send condolences to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomeadriantecumseh.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to Weston Baptist Church or Sand Creek Community Schools. Envelopes are available at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.

(Unknown newspaper source)

Cora M Cole (NW Plot 145)
Jacksonville, FL - Cora M Cole, age 99, died May 3, 2005 in Jacksonville, FL
She was born to J.R. and Nellie (Ball) Curtis on Oct. 25, 1905, in Rome Center, MI.
She spent 65 years of her life in Lenawee Co and 34 years in FL.  She married Harold N Cole on May 24, 1924, in Adrian, MI.  She was active in the Rebekah Lodge in Weston, MI and the Order of Eastern Star in Fairfield.
She is survived by four daughters, Marilyn (Eldene) Thompson and Sondra Fuller of Cheboygan, MI, Sharron Martin and Judy Smith of Jacksonville, FL.  She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband in 1973; parents, a son, Larry in infancy; grandson, Michael Smith; six sisters, two brothers and three sons-in-law. No services are planned.

Adrian Daily Telegram, Wednesday, February 13, 2008, pg 2A

John F. Cole Obit

ADRIAN — John F. Cole, age 91, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008, in Adrian at Charlotte Stephenson Manor.

He was born June 22, 1916, in Weston, Mich., to Fred Cole and Louise Haviland. He married Mary Elizabeth Wilson in LaGrange, Ind., in 1935. She preceded him in death in 1998. Also preceding him was his son, Gerald Lee Cole; brothers, Clarence Cole, Harold Cole, and sisters Mildred Shaneour and Florence Reed.

John loved farming the Weston farm where he was born, as his father and grandfather had, and now his son, Jerry. He loved talking about the history of the Cole family and Weston. He loved to read and was very knowledgeable in many fields. He was also a pilot, learning to fly in the 1930s. He loved to travel and go fishing.

He worked skilled trades for Harvey Aluminum, Martin Marietta, Bridgeport Brass and retired from General Motors, Adrian.

John was a co-founder of the Fairfield Township Fire Department and served as captain. He was a member of the Weston Baptist Church and Morenci American Legion. He was a veteran, serving in the Army during World War II and he also worked in the war plants, Hurd Lock and “The Mag” magnesium plant as a supervisor.

He is survived by daughters Nancy (Donald) Bailey of Manitou Beach and Mary Ann (Roger) Fielitz of Archbold, Ohio; grandchildren, Aaron and Laura Bailey, Randy and Jeff Fielitz, Debbie and Linda Cole, Chris Cole and several great-grandchildren; brother-in-law J.B. Wilson, sisters-in-law, Jean “Sis” Poucher, Betty Lou Young and Pat Weiner, and special nephew Ted Turner.

Funeral services for John will be at Wagley Funeral Home on Friday, Feb. 15, 2008, at 1 p.m. with Pastor Dan Maguire officiating. Visitation will be on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Memorial contributions in memory of John may be made to the Weston Baptist Church or Fairfield Township Fire Department. Envelopes are available at Wagley Funeral Home.

(Unknown newspaper source)

Mary E Cole (NW Plot 127)

FAIRFIELD- Mary E Cole, 83 of Fairfield Twp, passed away Feb 18, 1998, at Bixby Medical Center.

Mary was born Sept 10, 1914 in Spartanburg, SC to Ernest and Rosalee (Baker) Wilson.  She married John Cole on Nov. 16, 1935 in LaGrange IN. He survives. Mary worked at American Chain and Cable and Hurd Lock during WWII, then Stubnitz-Greene.  She was a member of the Weston Baptist Church, a former member of the Weston Rebekah Lodge and Morenci Eagles Auxiliary.  She also loved gardening and growing roses.

Besides her husband, Mary is survived by two daughters, Nancy (Donald) Bailey of Manitou Beach and Mary Ann (Roger) Fielitz of Archbold, OH; one son, Jerry (Sherry) Cole of Yuma, AZ; two brothers, Roy Wilson and James B Wilson; four sisters, Florence (Peggy) Turner, Lorraine (Pat) Weiner, Emma (Sis) Poucher and Betty Lou Young; nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Robert and Charles Wilson and sister Evelyn Lynn Clark and Ruth (Jeanie) Morrell.

Funeral services for Mary will be 11 am Saturday, Feb 21, 1998 at the Braun Everiss Wagley Funeral Home, 1501 W Maumee St Adrian, with the Rev Dan Maguire officiating.  Burial will follow in Weston Cemetery.  Visitation will be Friday, 6-9 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in Mary’s name may be made to Weston Baptist Church. Envelopes are available at Braun Everiss Wagley Funeral Home.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

(Unknown newspaper source)

Mrs. Caroline A Davenport (OW Plot 18)

Caroline A Gregory was born in Fleming, Cayuga Co. NY, Jan 2, 1828 and moved with her parents

Samuel and Edna Gregory to [G]ronson, Huron Co., OH, when three years of age. Her young

womanhood was spent in teaching school.  She was united in marriage to George Smith in 1849.

They began house-keeping in Fairfield Twp., this county, where the majority of her days since

had been spent. To this union were born two children, Amelia, now Mrs. William Green, and Mary,

now Mrs. Thomas Ragless.  She was left a widow in Feb 1865. On April 8, 1868 she was married to

Francis Davenport, who departed this life Aug 18, 1907.  Shortly after his death she gave up

her home to reside with her daughters, where all that loving hands could do has been done during

her declining years.

Deceased was a woman of sterling qualities, highly respected and always willing to lend a hand

for the power of good in the community and to her friends to whom she was most loyal.

She was a faithful member of the Fairfield Christian church during its existence and since has

kept in the path of righteousness, leading an earnest Christian life.  She was the last of a

family of six to respond to the Master's call for which she anxiously awaited that she might

go to the better home beyond.

Contributed by Wayne Carpenter

Adrian Daily Telegram, Jan 2, 1958

Martha W Faulkner (OW Plot 194)

Mrs. Vern Faulkner

Mrs. Martha W Faulkner, wife of Vern Faulkner of Weston, died Thursday at 7:45 p.m. in

Hillsdale Co the daughter of William and Sarah Peck Ferguson, Mrs. Faulkner spent most

of her life in Lenawee Co. She attended the Weston school and was a member of the

Methodist church and Weston Woman's club.  She married Mr. Faulkner Sept 30, 1920.

Surviving are her husband, Vern Faulkner of Weston; one sister, Mrs. Aseneth Faulkner

of Weston; and several nephews and nieces.  She was preceded in death by two brothers,

Ralph and Byron Ferguson.

Funeral services will be Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Weston Methodist church, the Rev.

William Johnson of Morenci, officiating.  Burial will be in the Weston cemetery. 

Friends may call at the Everiss Funeral Home in Adrian until noon Sun.

(Unknown Newspaper Source)

Pauline Ruth First (NW___)

Pauline Ruth First, age 84, of Weston, MI passed away at home Tuesday, October 31, 2006.  She married Welden W First on Sept 8, 1945 and he preceded her in death on Oct 6, 1984.

She was a member of the Weston Women’s Club and an auxiliary member of the G. Chandler Bond Post #275.  Pauline was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church where she sang in the choir and played the organ on some occasions.

Pauline is survived by her children, Patrick W First and Diana S First both of Weston, MI, Stephanie K (Gary) Russell of Oakshade, OH and Kathleen J Strech of Sand Creek.  She was the loving grandmother of Stephen D Strech of Sand Creek, Katrina M (Corey) Pinter of Adrian and Jacob R Strech of Sand Creek and was the great-grandmother of Kaylee Nicole Pinter; Pauline is also survived by her sisters, Rose Zenz, Betty (Cheo) Ragalado; her aunt, Jean Miller; 5 nephews; 5 nieces and several cousins.  She was preceded in death by her grand parents, William and Katherine (Baus) Miller and John and Eva (Riffle) Brill; her parents; sister, Martha A Fanning; brother-in-law, Harlan Rell, Howard First, Irv Fanning and Calvin Zenz and aunts and uncles.

(Unknown Newspaper Source)
Peter V. Force (Fairfield F-13-3) son of Solomon and Catherine Force, was born in Fairfield township August 15, 1852 and died at his home in Weston, April 9, 1922 in the 70th year of life.
April 20, 1873 he was united in marriage with Chloe M Baker. To this union were born six children, five
sons and one daughter.  The wife, daughter and two sons preceded him in death.  He is survived by
three sons, Jarvis, of Mankato MN., Burton of Lafayette, IN. and Carl of Logansport IN.
In March of 1899 he was married to Lucy J Ferguson.  For 23 years they trod life's pathway together
and it has been her cherished privilege to tenderly care for him through these years of failing health and
today she is left with the sons.
He is also survived by two brothers, James of Pittsford, and George of Cleveland Oh; One half-sister of
Ogden, MI and one half-brother of Hillsdale, MI and four grandchildren.
For more than 20 years he had been a faithful member of the Baptist church of Weston, and as long as
health and strength were given him he was seen at the service of the church.  Through the years of failing
health and the suffering that attended it there was never a murmur.  The Christian fortitude and patience
with which he bore it all was surely an example worthy of imitation.

Quoted from the book 'Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee County, MI 1903', page 330

Solomon Force, 2d, (OW Plot 166) was born in Fairfield, June 1, 1847.  His father, Solomon

Force 1st, was born at Tonawanda, NY., where his parents were pioneers, and where he

resided until 1833, when he came to Michigan and settled in Adrian Township, this county. 

He made several changes, but finally settled in Fairfield, where he resided until his

death, which occurred in 1870.  He was married three times and was the father of fourteen

children, and stepfather to six others.  He was a good mechanic and was very useful to

the settlers in making chairs, tables, etc., besides supplying them with grain cradles

and many other necessary implements.  July 12, 1846, he married Mrs. Catherine (Van Santford)

Ferguson, of Fairfield, and they had four sons, Solomon being the oldest.  Mrs. Catherine

Force was born in Middletown, NY, October 15, 1808 and died in Adrian, MI, July 4, 1897. 

Solomon Force, 2d, has always resided in Fairfield, and was reared a farmer.  He now owns a

fine farm home on the S.E. 1/4 of Section 29.  He was educated in the district schools of his

township.  For many years he followed cheese making, but now gives his entire attention to

farming.  March 17, 1872, Solomon Force, 2d, married Miss Emma J. Service, (Plot 166) daughter

to James and Elizabeth Service,(Plot 59) of Fairfield and they are the parents of six children

as follows:

1.)Adelbert H. (Plot 166) born June 20, 1873, and died September 6, 1875

2.)Jane E. [Jennie Elizabeth](Plot 166) bore August 13, 1876, a schoolteacher in Fairfield.

3.)Luke Harvey, born May 1, 1878, at home (Should be Harvey Luke)

4.)Clarence A., born July 11, 1881, at home

5.)Lela G., born August 13, 1885 at home

6.)Bertha L., born August 2, 1889 at home

Mrs. Emma J. Force was born in Canandaigua, NY, November 27, 1849 and came to Michigan with

her parents in 1852.  Her father was born in Philadelphia, PA., January 5, 1818 and still

resides (1903) in Fairfield, this county.  Her mother was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1817,

came to America in 1836, alone and was married in 1841.  She died in Fairfield, this county,

May 27, 1872. [For a full account of Mrs. Force's ancestors, see John Service's record in this

volume.]

Unknown Newspaper source

Tipton, Nov 30, - Mrs. Joseph Froehlich, aged 69 years, died suddenly at 5 o’clock yesterday after-noon in the home of her daughter Mrs. Harvey Hill of Saginaw.  Mrs. Froehlich was born in Fairfield twp and lived on the same farm for 66 years.  Her husband died four years ago.  The last three years she has made her home with her children.

She is survived by one son Charles Froehlich of Tipton, the daughter Mrs. Hill of Saginaw, several grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

The arrangements for the funeral have not been completed.

She is buried in Hagaman Cemetery, row 1. Her first name is Almyra

Contributed by Julia Klink

Unknown paper medium source

In Memoriam.  “Algernon is gone.” This was the announcement which came like an electric shock to the ears of our people on Tuesday evening, Jan 15, at 8 o’clock.  No one was prepared for such news, for the reports from the sick room for the past few days have been most encouraging.  For about four weeks he has been confined to the bed with typhoid fever, but the critical stage of the fever was past and the outlook for a speedy recovery was very good, when suddenly the death angel without a moment’s warning entered the sick room and laid his hand upon the loving husband and father and ever faithful friend.

The physician had just made his evening call and pronounced him doing nicely, had put on his overcoat preparatory to leaving, when a sudden change was noted and in a moment he who is life was  so full of life and activity, had gone to the unknown. A stricken family gathered about the bedside, unable as yet to realize the great change that had so suddenly came upon them.

Algernon S Grandy was born in Fairfield, Nov. 3, 1853, has passed his entire life here, being associated with his father, Dr. F Grandy, in the drug and grocery trade since 1871.  He was a man of strict integrity, altogether genial and companionable in social relations, thoroughly well informed upon the events of the past and present and always possessed the courage to carry his convictions into practice.

He was an active member of the Masonic order, the K O T M, the I O O F, and the grange.  During the last campaign he made the canvass upon the Democratic ticket as representative for the Second district in the legislature.

The death of such a man is a great loss to any community and to the stricken family of wife, three daughters and two sons, goes forth the sincere sympathy of the [page is torn]unity.  Funeral at Baptist church Friday, at 2 pm.  Immediate cause of Death heart failure.  E.J.B. Fairfield, Jan 16.  Fairfield Cemetery G-22-7

Contributed by Julia Klink

March 13, 1966, Adrian Daily Telegram
A A Green (Alonzo) (NW Plot 68)
Morenci - A. A. Green, 89, died at Morenci Area Hospital at 12:22 a.m. Sunday.  He had been a patient two weeks after an illness of five weeks.
Mr. Green was a resident of Weston, living on Weston Road.  He was born June 11, 1876 at Fairfield and was married to Mary Carpenter in Adrian, July 4, 1900.  Mr. Green farmed near Weston for the 47 years.  Mrs. Green died in 1956.
He is survived by two sons; Norman of Burbank, WA and Robert of Weston; a daughter, Mrs. Kenneth (Mildred) Pender of Adrian; a sister, Mrs. Louisa Iles of Toledo; four grand children and eight great grandchildren.
The funeral will be Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Charles Fink Funeral Home, the Rev. Larry L Pautz officiating.  The burial will be in Weston Cemetery.

Adrian Daily Telegram

Gladys Caroline Green (NW Plot 67)

SAND CREEK – Gladys Caroline Green, age 86, of Sand Creek, died Tuesday, Nov 28, 2006, at Bixby Medical Center.

She was born Jan 28, 1920, in Henry Co. to Charles and Martha (Groll) Smith. She was married to Robert Green on June 25, 1937.  He preceded her in death on April 23, 2005.  Gladys had been employed by the Adrian Girls Training School, retiring in 1982.  She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Morenci.

Gladys is survived by two sons, Robert Green and his wife, Carol, of Brighton, MI and Kenneth Green and his wife, Trudy, of Sand Creek; a daughter, Sharon Shields and her husband Doug of Morenci; a brother, LaVon Smith of Whitehouse Station, NJ; a sister, Maragret Miller of Hart, MI; 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.  In addition to her husband, Robert, she was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers and two sisters.

Funeral Services will be held Sat., Dec 2, 2006, at 11 a.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian, with the Rev. James Heffner officiating. Burial will be in Weston Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church of Morenci.  Envelopes are available at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.

June 13, 1911, Adrian Daily Telegram

Mrs. Goldsmith Passes Away (Ridgeville E-24-3, no stone)

Mrs. Harmon Goldsmith passed away Sat morning after a lingering illness at the farm

home in Jasper.  The funeral was held on Monday afternoon at Ridgeville.  The husband

and brothers survive.  One brother Myron Blain, resides here.

Note: Suspect buried by their sons: William & John in Ridgeville Cemetery.  More

research is needed.

Adrian Times, Monday, Nov. 27, 1911

Harmon Goldsmith (Ridgeville E-24-4 no stone) was born May 13, 1835, his parents coming from New York state among the early pioneers of southern Michigan.  His boyhood was the rugged pioneer scenes, where he required that remarkably strong constitution which carried him through many (cant read word) almost without illness and left him in good health until a ripe old age.

In early manhood he married Miss Nora Blaine, who proved more than companion to him through the passing years.

Two sons were born in this union, both of whom preceded their parents to the grave.  The loss of the sons was a great blow to Mr and Mrs Goldsmith, even to hastening the coming of the evening of their lives.  Mr. Goldsmith never spoke of them nor looked at their pictures without shedding tears of real sorrow.

The death of his noble wife on the 10th of last June took from Mr Goldsmith the last remaining link which bound him to earth.  His health failed rapidly almost from the day of her passing.  The sturdy constitution which had borne him through nearly four score years bowed beneath the weight of loneliness and sorrow and after a lingering illness he died in the early morning hours of Thursday, Nov 23.

Besides other more distant relatives, an older sister, Mrs. Diantha Tubbs, is left to mourn his loss.

Note: Suspect buried by their sons: William & John in Ridgeville Cemetery.  More

research is needed.

Unknown Newspaper Source

Wm. B Goldsmith (Ridgeville E-24-2), son of Harmon and Alnora Goldsmith, was

born in Fairfield Township, Mich, July 24th, 1870 and died at his home in Fairfield on

Monday, April 11th, 1898, at 7 o'clock a.m.

He was married Sept. 14, 1897 to Miss Anna Hatt, of Palmyra, Mich. Willie will be

greatly missed not only in the home circle, but in the entire community where he was a

general favorite. The school where he attended but a few years ago was closed, and the

bearers were selected from his schoolmates.

The funeral was largely attended and was held at the Ridge church, April 13th. 

The services were both solemn and impressive and were delivered by the same pastor

who officiated at the marriage so short a time ago, the Rev. Geo. Humphrey, of Palmyra.

The pallbearers were Archie Morse, Samuel Raymond JR., Fred Morse, Clifford Ayers,

Eugene Stout and Frank Raymond.

Universal sympathy goes out to his parents, who have seemingly had more then their

share of trouble, this being their last child, the support of their declining years,

they having lost a son a little over a year ago; also to his widow, who so shortly

started with him on life's voyage, with bright prospects of a long and happy life

together.

(Unknown newspaper source)

In Memoriam

Of James Green, (OW Plot 19) died Sept 27, 1888.

James Green was born in the county of Antrim, Ireland, May 3rd, 1809;

was married in 1830 to Eliza McConnell and the same year, in company

with his father-in-law and family, came to America and located in the

County of Clinton NY where he remained six years then went to Toledo,

OH and in 1838 came to Lenawee Co., MI and located for a short time in

Palmyra and then finally settled upon a farm in South Fairfield of the

same county, where he remained the rest of his life.  He was the father

of ten children. He leaves a widow and five children, four sons and one

daughter to mourn his loss.  Father Green was a charter member of the

South Fairfield Christian Church. And did much to build up and maintain

the interest and service of the church. It was my pleasure in company

with my daughter and her husband to visit "Uncle Jimmy" as we called him,

at his home on Friday September 21st. Together with his amiable companion,

we passed a happy day at the home they have so many years occupied in the

sweet comforts of life. As we walked out together he showed me the large

apple tree that his own hand had planted and we ate dinner together for

the last time, little thinking that before another week would pass I would

be called upon to preach his funeral sermon. With his long, full flowing

beard as white as aged hear could be, he looked as venerable and worthy

to me as one of the patriarchs of olden time.  With a face beaming of heaven

and a smile as innocent as a child, he said that he did not want to live any

longer; that he was going to heaven and the sooner his body was under the

sod the better it was for him.  Then with a solemn earnestness he remarked

that if it be God's will he wanted to die before his wife; that she had always

been so good to him that he could not bear the thought of being on earth a

moment without her being with him.  Oh, what a happy wedlock have those whom

God has joined together.  For 58 years they thus enjoyed this union of soul

in the love of God.  He died Sept 27, 1888, in his 80th year.  Sermon by the

writer.  Text, Isaiah, 26; 19.  Wm K Stamp.

Contributed by Wayne Carpenter

(Unknown newspaper source, 1887)

Mrs. Louisa W Green (OW Plot 88) the wife of Sylvester Green died

very suddenly on the morning of the 7th inst.  She had been in poor

health for a long time but was not considered dangerously ill until

a short time before her death.  Miss Louisa W Catlin was born in Huron

Co Oct 7, 1831, and was married to Sylvester Green Feb 4, 1882.  She

had been a faithful member of the Disciple church for a long time and

died with a well-grounded hope. She leaves a kind husband and two

children, now left the second time motherless, who deeply mourn her loss. 

The funeral was held at the house at 1 pm on the 8th inst. Rev S Metzler

officiating.  The remains were taken to Weston for burial.

Contributed by Wayne Carpenter

[Note: head stone reads Eliza]

Adrian Daily Telegram, Sunday, February 10, 2008, pg 2A

Leona P. (Brown) Hewitt Obit (NW Plot    )

ADRIAN — Leona P. Hewitt, 93, passed away Friday, Feb. 1, 2008, at the Charlotte Stephenson Manor. Don’t let her age fool you. Until recently, she remained vital and open to this life, despite her desire to be at home with her Savior. She was born in Adrian on Dec. 22, 1914, to Floyd and Vera Brown. On April 3, 1941, she married Thomas Lynn Hewitt, who preceded her in death on Feb. 15, 1985. Our mother and grandmother’s outgoing personality and love for the Lord drew her to be an active member of the Weston Methodist Church, the Weston Women’s Club and the Eastern Star. For years her grandchildren played with the spoils of her rock-hunting hobby.

Leona is survived by son, Richard, and his wife, Sherrie, of Morenci; two daughters, Carol DeLong of Jasper and Sally and husband, Skip Sharp, of Brooklyn; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a brother, Irving of Lake Placid, Fla. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three sisters, four brothers, a granddaughter and a great-grandson. She was buried at Weston Cemetery. A memorial service has been planned to celebrate the playful, genuine and wonderful lady she was. The service will be held on Feb. 17, 2008, at the Weston Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m. with a luncheon following.

Read this obituary and send condolences to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomeadriantecumseh.com. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to Hospice of Lenawee. Envelopes are available at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.

Quoted from the book "Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee Co., MI. 1903"

Page 165:

Thomas R Holland (OW Plot 206) was born in Buckinghamshire, England, July 29, 1811 and was

, 1`836, Mrs. Holland married at Perrysburg, OH, Miss Deborah M Thompson, by whom he

had 5 children, as follows:  Annie Maria, born in Lucas Co., OH  May 21, 1837, married

Henry Richey  was the mother of 9 children and died in Morenci Oct 28, 1885; Ezekiel

Uze, born in Royalton, OH December 18, 1839 and now resides in Amboy, OH; Louisa Ann,

born in Royalton, OH  Aug 18 1842, married George Herrick in 1862.  Mr. Herrick was

a soldier in the Rebellion and died in the service in 1864.  She was married a second

time to Joseph Southworth.  John Philo born in Royalton, Dec. 26, 1844, a soldier in

the Rebellion, now resides in Royalton; Esther Jane, born in Royalton, May 31, 1847,

married Lewis Miller, was the mother of 6 children and died in Seneca, Oct. 8, 1892; Mrs.

Deborah Maria Holland died in Royalton, May 16, 1949.  May 23, 1852, Mr. Holland married

Mary Ann Boyce, who died at Royalton, Aug 25, 1861 without issue.  April 30, 1962, Mrs.

Holland married Elizabeth C Hindee of Fairfield.  She was the daughter of Andrew and Rosina

(Moore) Hazlett and came to MI in 1852, settling in Fairfield. Her father, Andrew Hazlett

was born near Philadelphia, about 1762 and was a revolutionary soldier.  He participated

in many of the memorable struggles.  His father, mother and child were killed, and sister

tomahawked by the Indians.  Mr. Hazlett always lived in PA where he died in 1833. Mrs.

Elizabeth C Holland was born in Fairfield, Westmoreland Co., PA and came to MI with her

first husband, William Hindee

Unknown Newspaper Source

Frederick T Hulburt (Ridgeville D-20-16)

Frederick T Hulburt was born in Norwalk, Ohio, June 1^st, 1851.  He came to Michigan 24

years ago and died March 3^rd, aged 45 years, 9 months and 1 day.  He experienced

religion nine years ago, and united with the M E Church.  He leaves a widow, two sons

and three daughters to mourn his loss.  The funeral was largely attended from the Ridge church,

Rev. Fields officiating.

Adrian Daily Telegram

John Keller (NW Plot 35)

JASPER- John H Keller, 71, of 9059 S Adrian Hwy, Jasper, died early this morning at his home. He had been in failing health for about one year.

He was born July 26, 1911 in Bucks Co., PA, to Ira and Ethel Waldman Keller.  On March 4, 1933 he married Mabel A Barnes in Angola, IN.  She survives.

Mr. Keller graduated from Morenci High School and attended Michigan State University.  For 7 years he was employed by the MI Dept of Agriculture.  In 1942 he was appointed Fairfield Twp Supervisor, a position he held for 26 yrs. During that time he served as chairman of the Lenawee Co Board of Supervisor and as chairman of the Lenawee Co Republican Party for a number of years.  He was a member of the Sand Creek Board of Education for 6 years.

Mr. Keller was a Fairfield Twp farmer and later founded the Keller Insurance Agency.  When he retired in 1979 he sold the insurance business to his son Howard.  He was also a clerk for many years with the Linehan Auctioneers, was a member of the Lenawee Co Board of Realtors and associated with Linehan Realty.

Mr. Keller was a member of the Weston United Methodist Church and member of the church board for 40 years.  He was a past master of the Fairfield F and A.M., past patron of the Fairfield OES, was a 32^nd degree Mason and affiliated with the Royal Arch Masons, the Moslem Temple Shrine and the United Commercial Travelers.  He was a former member of the Jasper IOOF Lodge and the Fruit Ridge Grange.

Survivors included two sons, Howard of Sand Creek and George of Sunbury, OH; six grandchildren and one great granddaughter; his mother, Ethel Keller of  Morenci; three brothers, Edward of Morenci, Earl of Jasper and Laurence of Pittsford.  He was preceded in death by a son, Charles Alfred Keller, his father and a brother, Roy.

Masonic services will be held at 8 p.m. Thursday at the Charles Fink Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home 2 p.m. Friday with Rev Mark Smith officiating.  Burial will be in Weston Cemetery.

Quoted from the book "Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee Co., MI. 1903"

Page 442:

In 1880 Mr. Knapp engaged in the manufacture of brick and tile machinery with the late

James Farrar and J C McKenzie.  In 1883, March 9, the factory then located on Winter

St, Adrian was entirely destroyed by fire, the firm sustaining loss of about $20,000. 

Immediately after this disastrous fire, which destroyed all patterns and machinery,

steps were taken to rebuild and during the summer in 1883 the large structure now known

as the Brick and Tile Machine Works, was built and supplied with new machinery and

appointments.  This is one of the largest foundry and machine shops in Southern MI,

being 304 x 60 feet, two stories high and 1,250,000 bricks were used.  Mr. Knapp

remained in the business about 18 years.  Since 1897 Mr. Knapp has not been engaged

in any line of business.  In March 1902, he commenced the arduous work, in connection

with Mr. R I Bonner, of soliciting, compiling and publishing this volume, in commemoration

of his long life as a citizen and pioneer of Lenawee Co. He came to the county before

he was 9 yrs old and has resided here, boy and man, every since.  He has outlived all

of his business associates and now in his 79th year, is as rugged and ambitious as he

was thirty years before.  Mr. Knapp has been a member of the Lenawee Co., Pioneer Society

since its organization and has been the president of the society during the past four years. 

He is also a vice president of the State Pioneer Society.  April 24, 1851, John I Knapp 

married Miss Ellen Willey, daughter of Henrick and Lois (Harrison) Willey of Blissfield

and they became the parents of 5 children as follows;  Mary C (OW Plot 44) born in Fairfield

March 10, 1852 and died July 29, 1856; M Adella, born in Fairfield, Feb 9, 1855, married

George E Kedzie April 12, 1881 and 4 children were born to them as follows: Rosemond H,

born in Denver, CO, June15, 1884; Malcolm K., born in Ouray, CO., Aug 26, 1888; Margaret

A, born same place, Sept 21, 1889; Robert S, born in Durango, Mex., April 8, 1898 and

resides in Lansing, MI.  Harriet E born in same place, Jan 1, 1858, married John C Lambie,

Jan 19, 1883 and they had 3 children as follows: Ellen J born in Adrian, MI Oct 27, 1883;

John K, born in Adrian, March 25, 1893; Herbert born Dec. 29, 1860 and died Dec. 30, 1863;

Frank W., born in Adrian, Aug 8, 1865, married Miss Maud Hotchkiss, has one daughter and

resides in Denver, CO.  Mrs. Ellen (Willey) Knapp was born in Potsdam, NY, July 30, 1829.

She came to MI with her parents in 1936, settling in Blissfield, this county.  She died while

on a visit to her daughter, Mrs. Kedzie, in Chihuahua, CO.  Her father, Henrick Willey,

was born in 1788 and Juan 12, 1812 married Miss Lois Harrison at North Adams, Mass., where

she was born.  They had 9 children as follows:  Richard H born Nov 26, 1812, died in infancy;

Catherine D born Jan 22, 1814, married Obed F Worth, Nov 28, 1841 and died in Blissfield

Nov 30, 1845; Cornelia Maria, born Nov 27, 1815 married Ormal Sackett, Jan 8, 1837 died in

Blissfield July 20, 1848; George H born Dec 31, 1817 married Maria Valentine in Nov 1845, and

died in Blissfield Feb 20, 1848; Job born Feb 5, 1821 married Miss Rachel Worth, Dec 24, 1845

and died in Blissfield; Almond born Oct 28, 1823, died Oct 21, 1825; Jerusha, born Sept 11,

1827 died Oct 6, 1841in Blissfield; Ellen as above; Mary born Dec 22, 1831, died Feb 25, 1835. 

Mrs. Lois (Harrison) Willey died in Blissfield, June 9, 1871.  Henrick Willey died in Royalton,

OH in Aug 1859.  Job Willey was a merchant all his life and was successful, amassing a large

property but in the latter part of his life met with heavy losses.  He was an upright, exemplary

man, being highly esteemed by all who knew him.  June 18, 1885, John I Knapp married Miss S

Viola Wood, daughter of Zebina and Huldah Wood, of Adrian.  She was born in Columbia, Loraine

Co., OH  May 3, 1838 and came to MI in 1840 with her parents settling in Wheatland, Hillsdale Co.,

MI.  Her father, Zebina Wood, was born in Macedon, Wayne Co., NY Aug 14, 1805 and married

Miss Huldah Church in 1831.  They had 3 daughters as follows:  Mrs. S. Viola Knapp as above;

Mrs. Sarah V Stowell born in Wheatland, Hillsdale Co., Dec 29, 1840 resides in NY City; Emma C

born same place July 7, 1948 now Mrs. A M Clark. Zebina Wood died in Adrian Mi, May 18, 1875

and his wife born in Ontario NY July 19, 1806 died in Adrian Aug 10, 1895.  At the opening of

the State Industrial Home for Girls at Adrian in 1881 Mrs. John I Knapp then Miss S Viola Wood

was the first officer appointed by the Board of Control.  After serving four years as Matron,

she received the following upon her resignation:

                         Industrial Home May 7, 1885

My Dear Miss Wood:

I am requested by the Board of Control to send you this expression of their friendship. 

The resolution was adapted upon receiving your resignation as Matron of Central Cottage:

Resolved, that the Board of Control is accepting the resignation of Miss Viola Wood desire

to express their appreciation of the faithfulness with which for four years she has discharged

the onerous duties pertaining to her position here.  Coming into the service as she died, with

the opening of the institution, we cannot but feel that the degree of success which has been

attained in carrying out the charitable intention of the State is, in a large measure, due to

her wise counsels and efficient labors.

The Members of the Board of Control of "The State Industrial Home for Girls."

Ever your friend,

Eliza S Stebbins,

Clerk of Board

History and Biographical record of Lenawee County, Michigan... 1879

Isaiah Lowe  (Ridgeville C-22-10) was born in Big Flats, Chemung County, New York,

July 15,1811. His father, Abraham Lowe was born in New Jersey, November 2, 1777.

He moved to Big Flats previous to the year 1800, and lived until 1823, when he

moved to Genesee County, (now Orleans,) where he died in May 1832. April 18,

1802, he married Miss Mary Atwood, of Big Flats, New York, by whom he had

five children, Isaiah being the oldest son and fourth child. Mrs. Mary Lowe

was born in Canada, near Montreal, December 13, 1779, and died in Fairfield,

Lenawee County, Michigan, September 4, 1865.

Isaiah Lowe married, March 20, 1831, Miss Eleanor Older, daughter of William

and Caroline Older, of Shelby, Orleans county, New York, by whom he has had

five children, as follows: Lydia Ann, born in Adrian, August 14, 1832, wife

of James A. Dunbar; Jershua S., born in Adrian, April 3, 1834, wife of H. S.

White; Abraham, born in Adrian, August 20, 1836; Caroline M., born in Fairfield,

December 20, 1845, wife of J. C. Mabee; William F. O., born in Fairfield, May 1,

1853. Mrs. Eleanor Lowe was born in Seneca County, New York, August 4, 1812.

Contributed by Dennis Carpenter  DCTINMAN@webtv.net

Unknown Newspaper source

Isaiah Lowe (Ridgeville C-22-10)

Isaiah Lowe was born at Big Flats, Chemung County, NY, July 15, 1811, where he

Resided with his parents until 1831, when he was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor

Older.  About one year later he, with his wife, came to the then territory of Michigan,

and settled on a farm in the township of Adrian, where they lived about four years. They

then moved to the township of Fairfield, where he has since resided.  His wife preceded

him twelve years ago.  The fruit of their marriage was five children, two sons and three

daughters, all living.  Four of them were present at the funeral, Mrs. James Dunbar being

at home very sick.  Deceased had been a resident of Fairfield sixty years and of Michigan

sixty-five years.  He departed this life March 3, aged 85 years, 7 months and 18 days.

Unknown Newspaper source

Frank G. Mann, a former resident of Fairfield Twp died in his home at 19190 Irvington St. Detroit at 9:25 o’clock last night after eight months illness with a heart ailment.  Mrs. Mann was born January 18, 1883, in Spencer, Iowa.  He moved to the Mann homestead in Fairfield twp in 1900.  He lived in Jasper from 1905 to 1913 when he returned to the farm.  He moved to Detroit in 1919.

He is survived by the widow Mrs. Edith B Mann, two daughters Miss. Alice G Mann and Mrs. Gerald Crowe of Detroit, two sisters Mrs. Mabel Day of Denver, Colo., and Mrs. Elizabeth Davidson of Ames, Iowa, and a brother Lynn S Mann of Detroit.

The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock in the Hunt Cemetery in Fairfield where the burial will take place.  The services will be conducted by Masonic bodies from Detroit and Fairfield.

Hunt Cemetery is in Madison Twp. But have listed him here as well as Madison, due to his strong ties to the Fairfield area.

Contributed by Julia Klink

May 18, 1931, Adrian Daily Telegram

Dwight Mackey (Ridgeville E-13-1)

Jasper, May 18 – Dwight Mackey aged 76 years, died at 3:30 o’clock this morning in

His home south of Jasper.  Mr. Mackey had been confined to his home for seven years by

an illness of a complication of diseases.

He is survived by the widow, Mrs. Alice Mackey; one son, Charles Mackey of Ridgeville;

one daughter, Mrs. Vern Perrin of Fostoria, OH and several grandchildren.

The funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock in the Ridgeville church and

Burial will be made in the Ridgeville cemetery.

Monday, June 1, 1942, Adrian Daily Telegram, p 6 col 5

Carey Miller (Fairfield E-27-4)

Carey Miller of Fairfield, 74 years old, died Saturday morning at 10 o'clock in the University Hospital

in Ann Arbor where he had been a patient for two weeks.

Surviving him are his widow, Jennie; two daughters, Mrs. Stella Pifer of California and Mrs. Avis Brown

of Monroe; two sons, Lee Miller of Toledo and Dale Miller at home, ten grandchildren and one great-

grandchild. Also surviving are two half-brothers, Fred Parsels of Adrian and William Parsels of Springfield,

and one half-sister, Mrs. Bessie Spriggs of Chattanooga, Tenn.

The body is at the Braun Funeral Home where the funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2

o'clock.  The Rev. T.R. Doldson of the Weston Baptist Church will officiate and the burial will be in the

Fairfield cemetery. Friends are to omit flowers.

Contributed by Leslie Parsels, parsels@med.umich.edu

Thursday, March 30, 1944, Adrian Daily Times, p 6 col 4

Mrs. Jennie M. Miller (Fairfield E-27-4)

Mrs. Jennie M. Miller, 70 years old, died yesterday afternoon at 2:45 o'clock in the Lenawee County

Tuberculosis Sanitarium where she had been a patient for four years. Mrs. Miller was born August 22,

1873, in Fairfield township. Her husband Carey Miller died about three years ago.

She is survived by two daughters of Mrs. Stella O'Donnell of Los Angeles and Mrs. Avis Brown of Monroe,

two sons, Lee of Ridgeville and Dale with the armed forces in England, ten grandchildren and one

great-grandchild.

The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock in the Braun Funeral Home and the burial will be

in the Fairfield Cemetery. The Rev. T.R. Dolson will officiate.

Note: From the census records, Jennie M. Hubbard was the daughter of David and Olive J. ( ___ ) Hubbard.

Contributed by Leslie Parsels, parsels@med.umich.edu

January 21, 1924, Adrian Daily Telegram, pg 9, col. 2.

DUAINE MILLER, (NW 3-144) WESTON MERCHANT, DIED SATURDAY

In Business 33 Years;

Succumbed To Heart Attack; Funeral Tuesday at M.E. Church Special to

the Telegram WESTON, Mich. Jan. 21-Duaine Miller, aged 68 years, for

32 years proprietor of a grocery and meat market here, was found dead

in his barn Saturday afternoon, about 5:30 o'clock. He had gone to do

his chores, and when he did not return after half an hour members of

the family went to look for him and found him lying on the barn

floor. Death was caused by an affection [sic] of the heart. He had

been in failing health for some time.   He leaves his wife, two

daughters, Mrs. Stella Miller of Weston, and Mes. William Olmstead of

Adrian, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.   The

funeral service will be held Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock at the

Methodist Episcopal church.

Contributed by Phyllis Rickard.

Thursday, January 31, 1924, Morenci Observer, pg 1

DEWAIN L MILLER (NW 3-144) Dewain L. Miller, second son of Charles and Sophia Miller was

born 68 years ago August 25, 1855, at Hastings, Berry county,

Michigan. His boyhood years were passed in and near Morenci, Michigan.

    At the age of 21 Mr. Miller was married to Miss Clara Waldron, of

Seneca township. To this union two daughters were born: Mrs. Estella

Miller of Weston and Mrs. Nellie Olmstead of Adrian.

    Thirty three years ago Mr. Miller went to Weston and engaged in

business. Three years ago he retired from the grocery and meat market

business because of ill health but being of a very industrious

disposition he was not content in idle hours, so he again engaged in

the wholesale stock and poultry business, to which he was thoroughly

adapted.

    His honesty and integrity during his business career had won him

many staunch friends. He was widely known and respected, a man to

whom many came for counsel and assistance when needed. He was a great

lover of children and devoted to his home.

    His going will be most keenly felt by the immediate family circle

consisting of the faithful wife, two daughters, seven grandchildren,

and three great-grandchildren, one brother, Frank of Morenci, and one

sister, Mrs. Lenora Whittiker of Colorado Springs, Colo. One brother,

Charles, preceded him in death.

    He was a member of the Odd Fellow and Rebekah lodges, having

joined as one of the first initiated members; also the Maccabees.

    The influence of his helpfulness to the church and community will

live on. At the close of a busy day, January 19, he quietly left us.

Contributed by Phyllis Rickard.

November 4, 1992, Adrian Daily Telegram

Charles F Moran (NW 9-56)

Blissfield—Charles “Fred” Moran 63, of High Street, Blissfield, died Tuesday, Nov 3, 1992, at Bixby Medical Center.

He was born May 28, 1929, in Weston, the son of Benjamin and Alta (Hough) Moran.  On February 22, 1969, he married Donna Jean Gibbs.  She preceded him in death in 1990.

Mr. Moran served in the U.S. Army from 1951-1952.  He had been employed at the Blissfield Automotive Parts, Inc. He was a member of the Blissfield American Legion, the Adrian Moose and the Morenci Eagles.

Survivors include three stepdaughters, Cindy Ogden of Blissfield, Deborah Cox of Chicago, IL and Connie Garland of NC; two brothers, James Moran of Adrian and Franklin Moran of Sand Creek; two sisters, Marian Beavers of Manitou Beach and Ardith Hoover of Hawaii; nine step grand children and six step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Helen Duncan, and a step son, David Liechty.

Military funeral services will be conducted by the Blissfield American Legion Post 325 at 11 a.m. Friday at the Tagsold Funeral Home in Blissfield.  Burial will be in the Weston Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home from 7-9 pm today and 9-9 on Thursday.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

April 18, 1975, Adrian Daily Telegram

Mrs. Alta Moran (NW 9-56)

WESTON-Alta Luella Moran 84, of Weston died Thursday April 17, 1975 at 9:40 pm at Bixby Hospital where she had been a patient for three weeks.  She was born August 22, 1890, in Seneca, the daughter of George and Lucretta Hough.

On September 2, 1912, she was married to Benjamin Moran in Canada.  He preceded her in death in 1962.

Mrs. Moran was a charter member of the Weston Women’s Club, a member of the Morenci American Legion Auxiliary, the Adrian Goodwill Auxiliary, the Weston Baptist Church and the Sunshine Society.

Surviving are three sons, James of Adrian, Benjamin Jr. of Sand Creek, and Charles of Weston, two daughters, Mrs. Edward (Marian) Beavers of Manitou Beach and Mrs. Kenneth (Ardith) Hoover of Hudson; on step-sister, Idelle Briggs of North Adams; 20 grandchildren and 40 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Helen Duncan in 1970 and by two grand children.

Funeral services will be at 1:30 pm Monday at the Everiss Funeral Home, Adrian with the Rev T R Dolson officiating.  Burial will be in Weston Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 7 to 9 pm Sunday.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

June 9, 1962, The Adrian Daily Telegram

Benjamin Franklin Moran (NW 9-56)

Benjamin Franklin Moran, 75, died at 1 am Friday June 8, 1962 at University Hospital in Ann Arbor where he had been a patient two weeks.  He had been in failing health the past 10 years.  Mr. Moran resided at 4068 Gordon St in Weston.

Born May 3, 1887 in Adrian, he was the son of William C And Rebecca McCarty Moran.  He resided in Adrian before moving to Weston 41 year ago.  He was at one time employed by the Oliver Instrument Company in Adrian and was self employed as a job printer until his health failed.

On Sept 2, 1912, he married Alta Hough Partridge.

Preceding him in death were two brothers, C Fred Moran and Jerome Moran; two sisters, Mrs. Gertrude Clapp and Mrs. Bertha Maxham and two grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife; Alta; three sons, James I Moran of Adrian, Benjamin F Moran Jr of Adrian and Frederick Moran of Weston; three daughters, Mrs. Helen Duncan of Adrian, Mrs. Edward (Marian) Beavers of Manitou Beach and Mrs. Kenneth (Ardith) Hoover of Hudson; one brother, William M Moran of Seattle, WA; one sister, Mrs. Ray ( Mary) Huff of Columbus, OH; 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday at 2 pm at the Ackland and Fink Funeral Home with the Rev T R Dolson officiating. Burial was in Weston Cemetery.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

Saturday September 15, 1990, Adrian Daily Telegram

Donna (Gibbs) Moran (NW 9-56)

Blissfield—Donna Jean Moran, 60, of High Street in Blissfield, died Thursday, Sept. 13, 1990 at St. Joseph Hospital, Ann Arbor.

She was born July 5, 1930, in Addison to Fred and Elsa (Caine) Gibbs.  She married Charles (Fred) Moran February 22, 1969.  He survives.

She is survived by three daughters, Cindy Ogden of Blissfield, Deborah Cox of Adrian and Connie Moran of Blissfield; nine grandchildren; three great grandchildren; her mother, Elsa Stetler of Jackson; two brothers, Kenneth Gibbs of Jackson and Michael Crutsch of Jackson; and three sisters, Roberta Mason of Falmouth, Juanita Truman of Addison and Martha Kirby of Jackson.

She was preceded in death by her father, Fred; and one son David.

Services will be conducted 1:30 pm Tuesday at the Tagsold Funeral Home, Blissfield.  Burial will be in the Weston Cemetery.

Friends may visit 2 to 4 pm and 7 to 9 pm Sunday and Monday at the funeral home.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

Nov. 7, 1966, Adrian Daily Telegram
Erney Murphy (NW 6-112)
Erney Murphy of 608 Frank St., who has been a resident of Maple Lane Manor the last five years, died at 2 o'clock this morning at the manor.  He was 61 years old.
Mr. Murphy was born in Weston June 18, 1905. He was a section foreman on the Wabash Railroad for 30 years.
Surviving are his widow, Rhilla; two sons, Francis E Murphy and Donald J Murphy of Adrian; four daughters, Mrs. Wanda LeVeck and Mrs. Norma J White of Adrian, Miss Ellen Murphy and Mrs. Marian Palmer of Toledo; four sisters, Mrs. Della Parker of Seneca, Mrs. Mattie Brock of Morenci, Mrs. Clarice Fox of Weston and Miss Lillian Murphy of South Bend.  Also surviving are three grandchildren and six step-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by six brothers, one sister, one…(sorry, more to come)

Dec. 19, 1964, Adrian Daily Telegram
Ola Murphy (NW 6-112)
Ola Murphy, a resident of Maple Lane Manor, died this morning at 7 o'clock at the manor where he had lived since 1958.
Born April 23, 1907, in Adrian, he was the son of Samuel and Hester Harger Murphy.  He was a factory worker and had lived his entire life in the Adrian and Weston areas.
Surviving are two brothers, Otha Murphy, his twin and Erney Murphy both residents of the Manor, and three sisters, Mrs. Clara Fox of Weston, Mrs. Mattie Brock of Morenci and Mrs. Dell Parker of Seneca.
The funeral will be Monday at 1:30 p.m. in the Dunmore Funeral Home. Burial will be in Weston Cemetery.

April 7, 1966, Adrian Daily Telegram
Otha Murphy (NW 6-112)
Otha Murphy, 58, a former Adrian resident, died Thursday in the Veterans Facility in Grand Rapids where he had been a patient two weeks.
Mr. Murphy was born April 23, 1907, in Weston.  He was a veteran of WWII.
In addition to his wife, Velma, of Adrian, he is survived by two children; Vernon and Joyce; at home; a brother, Ernest of Adrian; four sisters, Mrs. Lillian Russell of South Bend, Mrs. Della Parker of Seneca, Mrs. Mattie Brock of Morenci and Mrs. Clarice Fox of Weston. Preceding him in death were three children, five brothers and one sister.
Services will be Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in the Braun Funeral Home with the Rev. Norman Russell officiating.  Burial will be in Weston Cemetery. Graveside services will be conducted by the William C Stark Post of the American Legion.

Adrian Daily Telegram, May 12, 1957

Owen J Munson (OW 19-103; head stone reads Olin)

MORENCI, March 14, Owen J Munson, 69 yrs old, the former owner of a machine

shop at Weston, died at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at San Francisco, CA.

He is survived by his widow, Lela; a daughter, Mrs. Darrow Goeriz of Castro

Valley, CA; a half-sister, Mrs Ida Stutz of Toledo, and two grandchildren.

The body is being returned by air to the Ackland & Fink Funeral Home in Morenci

and was expected to arrive today.  The funeral will be Sat at 2 p.m. with the

Rev. T R Dolson of Hudson Officiating.  A Masonic service in charge of the

Fairfield lodge is to be held at the Weston Cemetery.

Portrait and Biographical Album of Lenawee County, Mich. pages 772-773, published 1888

Solomon M. Newton  (Ridgeville D-17-6)

Among the pioneers of Lenawee County were the grandfather and father of

the subject of this biography, and in this connection we are pleased to

relate some of the interesting incidents of their early settlement. It

is well to commemorate the names of those hardy bands of men who first

broke the way for progress and civilization into this wilderness, and

whose courage and endurance have brought it to its present high state

of development.

Mr. Newton's paternal grandfather, John Newton, was born in the state

of Vermont, Jan. 14, 1772, and married for his second wife Miss Hannah

Hadley, who was born Feb. 6, 1775; she became the mother of four

children, three girls and one boy. After her death he was again united

in marriage, in 1810, with Miss Rebecca Radway, a native of Vermont,

where she was born May 26, 1783. By this marriage there were born seven

children, six boys and one girl. Mr. Newton, in 1815, purchased fifty

acres of land in the woods at Truxton, N.Y., which he cleared; but on

the 2d of May 1830, he started from Syracuse on the Erie Canal to

Clinton. From the latter city he reached Milton Township, Wayne Co.,

Ohio, by means of two yoke of oxen and a wagon, and there rented a farm

of forty acres, on which he built a log house of the usual primitive

architecture, into which he moved and made his home for nine years. At

the expiration of that time he went with his son, Jeremiah T., to

Medina County in the same state, where he followed the profession of a

physician, and died May 11, 1848, at the age of 76 years.

Jeremiah T. Newton, the father of our subject, was born March 10, 1819,

in Tuxton, Cortland Co., N.Y., and was but eleven years of age when his

parents removed to Wayne Co., Ohio. On reaching manhood he purchased

fifty acres of wild land in Spencer Township, Medina Co., Ohio, upon

which he built the usual pioneer cabin. The floor was made of split

puncheons and the roof of shakes, which were held in place by poles, as

nails were an unknown quantity in that wilderness. Into this he removed

his parents in the fall of 1839, and Sept. 17, 1843, he was united in

marriage with Miss Clarissa Benfer, and installed her in his cabin as

his mistress. He remained in this house with his parents until the

spring of 1844, and then erecting an addition to it of the same unique

construction, moved into it and commenced housekeeping on his own

account. The chimney of the house was on the outside of it, and was

built of sticks, stone and mud. The fireplace in one end of it was made

of bog oak with clay plastered upon the inside of it, and split logs on

the outside from six to seven feet high to protect it. Besides the door

the cabin had one window in which were six panes of glass, 8x10 in

size, which was considered a luxury in those days. Their cupboard was made by

boring six holes in the log wall, into which were driven as many pins,

which supported three boards. The table was made by Mr. Newton, whose

only tools were an ax, saw and plane, and who could only work at it at

night when he could not see to do anything out-doors. The entire stock

of furniture of the young couple consisted of a bedstead, one chair, a

stool made by himself, three plates, three cups and saucers, three

knives and forks, three pewter teaspoons, one iron spoon, one gallon

crock and a coffee-pot.

Jeremiah Newton and his wife lived upon this place until the 1st of

March, 1853, when having made considerable improvements upon the place,

he sold it, and removed to the wilds of Ashland County, in the same

state, and settled in Sullivan Township. There he purchased forty acres

of land, about twelve of which were cleared, and building a log house

moved into it, taking his mother with him. He lived on this place about

eleven years, and cleared up the remainder of the farm, but in 1864 he

sold the property and bought eighty acres of land in Ogden Township,

Lenawee County, (Michigan) of which about twenty-five acres had been

cleared of the timber. They had made the journey from Ashland County

with teams and wagons, and spending five days upon the road arrived in

this county Aug.20, 1864. Here Mr. Newton spent the remaining years of

his life, his death taking place July 23, 1884. He was an honest man and

posed of sound and excellent judgment. He started in the world a poor

man, but his industrious habits gained him a competency which enabled

him to leave a comfortable home to his wife and two sons who survive

him.

 Mrs. Newton, the mother of our subject, was born in Center County, Pa.,

May 24, 1824. Her paternal grandfather, it is thought, a native of

Pennsylvania, and spent the last years of his life in that State. Her

father, George Benfer, was born, reared, and married in Pennsylvania,

and continued to reside there until 1830. In that year, with his wife

and four children, he started for Ohio, journeying in a wagon drawn by

one horse. He located in the forest of Spencer Township, Medina County,

where he bought a tract of timber land, on which he build a board

shanty for the shelter of his family until he could erect a more substantial

log cabin. He cleared a large farm upon which he erected good

buildings, and he lived to see the county well developed. The maiden name of his

wife, who was a Pennsylvanian, was Mary Duffy; she died in their home

in Medina County.

 Mrs. Newton is the mother of three sons: James, living across the

boarder in Ohio; George Franklin, who died at the age of twenty years,

and Solomon M., her youngest child and the subject of our sketch, with

whom she resides. He was born in Sullivan Township, Ashland Co., Ohio,

Nov. 9, 1855. He was but nine years of age when he came with his

parents to live in Michigan, so that the most of his life has been spent on this

homestead in Ogden Township. Inheriting a fair share of the energy and

capabilities of his parents, since he has had charge of the farm he has

made many excellent improvements, and has been very successful in his

work as a farmer. Mr. Newton was married, Nov. 9, 1878, to Miss Augusta

M., daughter of James and Elizabeth Hendee, who was born May 14, 1857,

in Spencer Township, Medina Co., Ohio. One child, Ellis A., was born of

their union, whose place of nativity was Amboy, Fulton Co., Ohio, and

the date, July 7, 1884. After a few brief years of pleasant wedded life

Mrs. Newton died, Jan. 11, 1885. Mr. Newton contracted a second

matrimonial alliance, Dec. 24, 1887, with Miss Hattie Miller, who was

born in Amboy, Fulton Co., Ohio, April 14, 1868.

Submitted by Dennis Carpenter DCTINMAN@webtv.net

Adrian Daily Telegram

Betty Jane Rathbun (NW 11-18)

WESTON – Betty Jane Rathbun, age 77, of Weston, her precious spirit went home to be with the Lord, Wed., Jan. 10, 2007.

She was born July 10, 1929, in Adrian, to John and Erma (Cohrs) Johnson. On Dec. 27, 1948, she married Keith Rathbun and he survives.  Betty was retired from the Lenawee Medical Care Facility, where she worked in house-keeping.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by one son, Michael Rathbun and his wife, Carolyn Sue, of Mesa, AZ; two daughters, Jamee Davis and her Bill, of Weston and Jermee Emerson of Weston; two brothers, Martin Johnson and his wife, Ruth of TN and Art Johnson and his wife Naomi, of GA; one sister, Frances Pickford of Pittsford, MI; 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Debra Kay Rathbun.

At Betty’s request cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan 13, 2007, at 1 p.m. at the Weston United Methodist Church. Family and friends are invited to attend immediately following the service of luncheon and visitation at the Weston United Methodist Church.  Burial of her ashes will take place in the Weston Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lenawee.  Envelopes are available at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.

Adrian Daily Telegram

Debra Kay Rathbun (NW 11-18)

WESTON TEENAGER KILLED

A Weston teenager died Dec 7 at the U of M Hospital in Ann Arbor as the result of injuries suffered in a car – truck accident at 5:15 p.m. that day. (Dec 7, 1972)

Dead is Debra Rathbun, 18, of 4028 Weston Rd.  According to Lenawee Co Sheriff’s deputies, Miss Rathbun attempted to pass a truck on US 223 approximately one half mile northwest of Rome Center when the accident occurred. Deputies said Miss Rathbun’s car sideswiped the truck operated by Cecil Harris, 37, of Lipp Hwy, Riga, careened off the road and hit a tree.

She was born Oct 21, 1954 in Adrian, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter and Betty Johnson Rathbun.

She was a senior at Sand Creek High School and worked as a secretary at Valley Farms in Onsted under the Vo-Tec Center program.

In addition to her parents she is survived by a brother, Michael of Sand Creek; two sisters, Jamee and Jermee, both at home; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Rathbun of Morenci and Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson of Canandaigua.

Services were held at 2 p.m. Dec 11 at the Charles Fink Funeral Home, the Rev. T R Dolson officiated.  Burial was in Weston Cemetery.

Funeral services were held Monday at the Charles Fink Funeral Home with the Rev. T R Dolson officiating.  Burial was in Weston Cemetery. Pallbearers were Kevin Keller, Steve Waltz, J.R. Rising, Charles McIntyre, Rick Coy and Tom Braman.

(Unknown Newspaper Source)

CAR – TRUCK CRASH KILLS WESTON GIRL

Debra Kay Rathbun, 18, of 4028 W Weston Rd. Weston MI, died at 11:55 p.m. Thursday in U of M Hospital following an accident the same day.

Miss Rathbun, who was a senior at Sand Creek High School, received the fatal injuries on US 223 near Rome Rd, when her car hit the side of a truck she was attempting to pass and then skidded into a tree.

The truck driver, Cecil Harris, 37, of Riga was not injured.

Born Oct 21, 1954, in Adrian, Miss Rathbun was the daughter of Walter K and Betty Johnson Rathbun.  She was a co-op student at the Lenawee Vo-Tech School employed as a secretary at Valley Farms in Onsted.

She was a member of the Weston Methodist Church.

Surviving besides her parents are a brother Michael of Sand Creek; two sisters, Jamee and Jermee, at home; and her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Rathbun of Morenci and Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson of Canandaigua.

Adrian Daily Telegram

Ethel M Rathbun (NW 6-47)
Ethel M Rathbun was born 15 Sept 1932 in Fairfield Twp., Mich., the daughter of Leland and Florence Davenport Rathbun.  Her early education was in a one-room school.  She graduated in 1950 from Sand Creek High School and from Cleary College in Ypsilanti in 1951.  She worked in Ann Arbor from 1951 to 1960.  From 1960 to 1967 she lived and worked in Germany.
She joined the staff of the Department of Mathematics at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in May 1967 and quickly became a major supporting pillar of its activities.  Her skills and warm spirit rapidly endeared her to both faculty and students. "Ethel" became known throughout the world's mathematical community because of concern for all members of the department and the many students and international faculty constantly flowing through Ann Arbor.  Her friendships ranged from members of the U.S./National Academy of Sciences to beginning graduate students.  Indeed, one department chairman referred to her as "die Herr" of mathematics.  She retired in 1994 after a distinguished career during which she always brought her behind-the-scenes competence and compassion to all with whom she came in contact.  She particularly enjoyed travel. Her travels included visits to all provinces in Canada, except Prince Edward Island, and countries in all continents except Antarctica.
She was predeceased by her parents.  Survivors include a sister, Mary Lou (Eugene) Terbush of Waterford, MI; brothers, Allen (Mary) Rathbun and Richard (Joyce) Rathbun of Tucson, AZ.  Survivors also include four nieces and three nephews and six grandnieces and six grandnephews. Returning from a long planned vacation to visit her many friends in Germany, she was suddenly stricken en route home and died Nov. 9, 2005.
Cremation has taken place. A service is planned at the First Baptist Church in Weston, MI, for 1:30 p.m.  Tuesday, Nov 29.  A Memorial Service in Ann Arbor will be announced at a later date.  Burial will be in Weston Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Scholarship Fund at Cleary University, 3750 Clear Dr, Howell, MI 48843 or to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society.

Weston Kodak Newspaper, Thursday, April 2, 1903

 George B. Rathbun (OW 17-106), son of Amos and Margaret Rathbun, was born October 31, 1851, and died March 26, 1903, aged 51 years, 4 months, and 25 days.  The subject of this sketch was born on the farm where he died, and has been a sufferer for 30 years, paralysis finally ending his life.  His aged mother, who has been his faithful attendant through all his suffering, survives him at the age of 94 years.  There are also three brothers and four sisters to mourn his loss.  He was identified with the Christian church in South Fairfield, Michigan. 

Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

Adrian Times, Nov 24, 1911

Reuben Miller Russell (Fairfield G-11-7) was born in Fairfield Sept. 19, 1842 and died Nov. 19, 1911, death due to apoplexy.

He was a son of John and Esther Russell.  There were eight children in their family, he being the last son, death not having entered this family for 32 years.  The four sisters are left to mour.

Deceased was a home loving man and lived for his children and all the good he could do. His life for 17 years has been a true Christian life. He lived alone for about 20 years.

He was married to Annette Hoadley Dec 11, 1872, she dying Jan 8, 1891.  Six children were born to this union, two dying in infancy.  The surviving children are: Bernard, who lived close by and who was the first to discover his sudden death; three daughters, Mrs. Choice Slater of Toledo, O; Mrs. Belle Staup and Mrs. Ethel Alcock of Detroit.

The funeral services were held at the Baptist church at Fairfield with burial at the Fairfield Cemetery.  The sermon was preached by Rev. Miller of the FM Church of Ypsilanti a former pastor of the deceased and he was assisted by Rev Leonard Larkin of Milan, a nephew of deceased.

The bearers were Bert Reed, J Brock, H drake and Chas Reed.

Deceased had been at Jasper the day before his death to visit his sisters and seemed to enjoy his usual health, quietly read his paper in the evening and retired as usual.  His sudden death occurred as stated, the son discovering him in the morning.

March 31, 1930, Adrian Daily Telegram

Fairfield-

Mrs. Hartis Sager (Fairfield F-35-10) aged 84 years died Sunday morning at 11o’clock in the home of her son I J Sager with whom she had lived for several years.  She had been an invalid for 11 years and had suffered a

stroke and paralysis last Tuesday night which was the immediate cause of death.  Mrs. Sager had

resided in Fairfield village for 55 years and had spent nearly all her life in Lenawee County.  She was

a member of the Baptist Church and the Ladies Missionary and Aid Society.   She is survived by 2

sons I J  Sager of Fairfield and L R Hoyt of Homer, two brothers H J Shaw of Blissfield and

Hartman Shaw of Ionia, 1 sister Hartella Brown of Peru, Indiana.  Funeral will be Tuesday 2

o’clock with burial at Fairfield.

Contributed & comments:  Sue L drelatives@hotmail.com (She, Wilbert and Robert are buried east end of maybe section E or F, according to your map, assuming I remember correctly.  I do not know who Robert is; my mom thinks he is a son. I just have not done the research yet. Their son Ivie and his wife Goldie are also buried at Fairfield Cemetery.)

Quoted from the book 'Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee County, MI, 1903',

page 180:

James Service, Jr., (OW 10-59) was born in Philadelphia, PA, Jan. 5, 1818 a few days after his

mother arrived from Scotland.  His father, James Service was a native of Scotland.  [For his

record see John Service's sketch in this volume.]  Aug 5, 1841, James Service, Jr. married

Miss Elizabeth Hardy (OW 10-59), daughter of John Hardy, of Edinburgh, Scotland and they

ad 8 children as follows: Andrew J (OW 10-59) born Canandaigua, NY, April 7, 1842 resides

in Fairfield; Elizabeth born same place, April 3, 1844, died Sept 20, 1848;  John H (OW 15-122)

born same place, Jan 6, 1846 married Hannah C Jackson (OW 15-122), daughter of David and

Caroline (Whitney) Jackson (Plot 1) who have had 5 children as follows:  Frank born in Seneca,

this county, July 28, 1871; Elizabeth, born same place, Sept 8, 1873, married R D Whitney,

resides in WI; Burt J born same place, March 3, 1875; Eugene J born same place, Nov 22, 1876;

Charles born same place May 22, 1887.  Mrs. Hannah C Service was born in Shelby, Orleans Co.,

NY, Dec 3, 1845, and died in Seneca, this county in Oct 1888; James born June 7, 1848 and

died March 17, 1862; Emma born same place Nov 27, 1849. [For her family relation, see

Solomon Force's record in this volume.] Clarissa (OW 10-59) born in Fairfield this county Oct 1,

1855 died Sept 19, 1881; Janet born same place June 24, 1857 married Thos J Pickles is the

mother of 4 children and resides in Fairfield; George born in same place, June 26, 1861 resides

in Fairfield.  Mrs. Elizabeth Service (OW 10-59) was born in Edinburgh, Scotland Feb 15, 1817

and died in Fairfield this county May 27, 1872.  She was the only member of her family that

ever came to America.  One of her brothers was a soldier in the English army, and died in India. 

James Service Jr., resides on Sec 29 in Fairfield, where he has lived since he came to MI.

Sept 30, 1898, The Adrian Daily Telegram

Mary Service, (OW 6-12)

Was It Suicide?

An Aged Lady Near Weston Found Dead.

Had Been Suffering From a Cancerous Infection.

Weston, Sept. 30-A very distressing affair took place this morning about one-half mile southeast

of Weston.  Mrs. Mary Service, a widow in her eighty-seventh year, was found dead in a water

tank at the barn.  Mrs. Service had been afflicted with a cancer in her forehead for some time,

and last week she had it removed.  She has suffered a great deal and it was at first thought to

be a case of suicide. Mrs. Service had lived on the farm for 50 years and was making her home

with her son-in-law, Clarence Hough.

She had been missed from the house about two hours, when relatives made search and found

the body as above stated. It was a most distressing affair, and the neighborhood is very much

grieved.  The family regards it as an accident.

The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Baptist church in Weston.

Quoted from the book “Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee County, MI 1903”, page 330:

"Mary (Carroll) Service (OW 6-12) died at her home on Section 20, in Fairfield."

August 31, 1943, Adrian Daily Telegram

Blissfield-

Hartwell Shaw (Fairfield F-34-13)88 years old died in his home 220 Cherry St. at 2:00 this morning, after several months of illness.  He served 22 years as deputy sheriff and 26 years as Village Marshal before he retired several years ago.  He moved here from Fairfield many years ago.  Mrs. Shaw died Nov. 1935. 

He is survived by his daughter Mrs. E. R. DeLand of Jasper and one son Leonard at home, 3

grand and 5 great grandchildren.  He was buried at Fairfield Cemetery.

Contributed & comments:  Sue L drelatives@hotmail.com (Found this grave on my last visit, seems to me he is buried not far from sister Hartis, but I have not yet

developed my pictures.  Both wives and Nellie are also buried at Fairfield.)

From Memoirs of Lenawee County by Bonner

Located in the Local History room of the Adrian Public Library

Hartwell J.Shaw, (Fairfield F-34-13) the efficient marshal; constable and deputy sheriff at Blissfield was born in Adrian Township June 22, 1855.  He is son of John and Samantha (Morse) Shaw; both natives of the Empire State the father having been born in Orleans county and the mother in Duchess County.  The father came to Lenawee County from his native state when but 16 years of age, and during the larger part of his active career was engaged in the mill business at Fairfield.  Subsequently he removed to Fountain City, Ind. where his death occurred March 7, 1879, some years after the mother’s demise, which occurred in Fairfield village.  Six children were born to the parents.  Hartford is a farmer in Clarendon, Calhoun County, Michigan. Hartice Ann is married to a Mr. Hoyt and lives in Fairfield.  Hartulla first married a Mr. Titchneor, who died in 1879 and then married Horace L. Baker and resides on a farm in Fairfield Township.  Hartman lives in Fairfield and Hartella, now Mrs. Lee, is a resident of Peru, Indiana.  Hartwell J. Shaw received the scholastic training afforded by the district schools in Rome and Adrian township, and then learned the trade of miller under the able apprenticeship of his father, with whom he worked until 1891.  In that year, he came to Blissfield to accept a position as salesman in the implement store of Wilcox and Holt a position which he filled most acceptably for 11 years until the pressure of his official duties necessitated all his attention and he resigned.  In his political views, Mr. Shaw has always been a staunch Republican and two years after coming to Blissfield was the successful candidate of his party for election as constable of the township.  For 15 years he has filled that position with great satisfaction to everyone concerned. Since 1896 he has also been marshal, by appointment and in 1905 Sheriff O.H. Holt, of the county commissioned him deputy sheriff for Blissfield and he was recommissioned Jan. 1, 1909 by Sheriff L. Lafayette Knowles.  He is the only guardian of the peace in the village and township and the orderly, wholesome condition of the community speaks most highly for his capacity as an officer.  Fraternally, Mr. Shaw is prominently identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Rebekahs.  In 1874 occurred Mr. Shaw’s marriage to Miss Josephine Carter, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jewell Carter.  Mrs. Shaw died 5-10-1877 leaving one child Celia who is the wife of Don Davenport now associated with the firm Noss Brothers Manufactures at Ft. Wayne, Ind.  On March 28, 1880, Mr. Shaw was united in marriage at Morenci to Miss Ellen Phetterplace born in Madison Township 6-22-1858, the daughter of James and Ann (Still) Phetterplace.  Mr. Phetterplace was born in Seneca County, New York 3-9-1826 and died Fairfield in 1877 and his widow is now living in Fayette, Oh.  Two children were the issue of marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Shaw, namely Leonard J. a resident of Blissfield and Nellie who died in infancy.

You should be aware that some of the info in this biography is not accurate.  This biography appears to have been written in the early 1900’s.  Hartwell’s sister Hartis was married to Johathan Hoyt according to the 1870 census, but in 1880, she is a widowed servant in a hotel in Adrian.  She married Wilbert Sager of Fairfield 30 Nov 1882 in Fairfield according to County records.  My point is, in the early 1900’s; she should have been identified as Hartis Sager.  Sister Hartula was married to Henry Tichenor before 1870; they purchased 20 acres in Dover Township in December of 1869.  Henry may have died in 1879, I have found no record.  I believe he served with the 4th Michigan (right name and age enlisting in Adrian) and info found at www.4thmichigan.com says he lived in Fairfield after his discharge. If you find him, please let me know.  Hartula married Horace L. Baker of Fairfield 27 April 1880 according to county records.  Hartman did live in Clarendon, he and his wife are buried in a cemetery across from their farm.  Hartman does live in Fairfield according to the 1900 census.  His twin sister Hartella, I’m not so sure of.  A Lee family researcher does not show this family in Indiana , in fact, his research shows Mr. Lee a widower.  However, she is mentioned in Hartis’s obit as Mrs. Brown in Peru, Indiana , so perhaps the place is right and like sister Hartis the name is wrong, I just don’t know, yet.

Contributed & comments:  Sue L drelatives@hotmail.com

July 18, 1958, Adrian Daily Telegram

Blissfield-

Leonard Shaw , (Fairfield no stone) 75 years died Thursday at 10:45 am at the Crout nursing home at 1119 Erie St. in Adrian after several months of failing health.  Mr. Shaw was born and lived in Blissfield until 12

years ago when he moved to Adrian to live with Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hammons of 140 E. Hunt St. 

Mr. Shaw was employed by the Lenawee Hotel until a year ago.  He is survived by a daughter

Mrs. Elaine Allager for Detroit, 3 grand children and a sister Mrs. Celia Deland of Mt. Clemens. 

The funeral will be Saturday 2 pm at the Tagsold funeral home with Rev. Alfred Price officiating. 

Burial at Fairfield.

Contributed & comments:  Sue L drelatives@hotmail.com (I have not yet found this grave in the Fairfield Cemetery, but have not looked that hard.)

Quoted from the book 'Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee County, MI 1903',

page 433:

Wellington C Smith was born in Fairfield Lenawee Co., MI Jan 1, 1845.  His father, Nelson Smith

was born in Macedon, Wayne Co., NY March 21, 1815.  His father, Ezekiel Smith a native of Acton,

Mass., was born in 1779, being the son of Ezekiel Smith who was born in 1756 and was an active

patriot all through the Revolutionary period of the nations struggle for liberty.  Oct 5, 1841,

Nelson Smith married Mrs. Delia (Morris) Dunn, widow of Jefferson Dunn (OW 39-208) and they had

three children as follows:  Mary E born Aug 28, 1842 married Samuel D McKenzie of Adrian;

Willington C; Fanny, born Oct 23, 1846 died Oct 3, 1865. [For full particulars of Mrs. Delia

(Morris) Smith who died July 26, 1895 at the home of her daughter in Adrian at the age of 91

years, see Whitney & Bonner's History and Biographical Record of Lenawee Co, Vol 2 pages

170-1-2 and Vol 1 pages 472-3.] Wellington C Smith has always resided in Fairfield Twp and

now lives in the village of Weston.  He was brought up a farmer and still owns the farm he

was bon on in Sec 6, now known as Fruit Ridge.  His father being interested in horticulture

and engaged in some extent in the nursery business he early developed a taste for fruit and

flowers development.  For many years he gave his attention largely to farming but in 1890 he

moved to Weston, having in 1883 erected a sold storage building there for the purpose of handling

and shipping fruit.  In good fruit years he has shipped as many as 18,000 barrels.  In years

when the crop was short at home he has shipped in either from NY or Missouri as Many as 10,000

barrels, to supply the home market.  He has an orchard in Weston containing 800 apple trees and

2,000 peach trees of the choicest varieties.  In 1888 he erected at Weston a first class fruit

evaporator, which has been successfully carried on ever since. In 1891 he became interested in

the manufacture of the Weston Windmill, which has proved eminently satisfactory to all patrons

and is still engaged in its manufacture.  Jan 1, 1874 Willington C Smith married Miss Elizabeth

A Poucher, daughter of Abram and Laura A (McKenzie) Poucher and they have 5 children as follows:

Fanny E born May 26, 1877, married Aug 27m, 1894 William Younglove, and reside in Adrian, but

are both engaged as teachers in the Industrial School at Lansing; Mary E born Feb 27, 1879

married June 29, 1898 Rev Walter E Burnett of Detroit Conference M E Church and has one son;

Laura D born Jan 5, 1881 at home; Nelson born Feb 10, 1891 at home; Morris A born April 19, 1893

at home.  Mrs. Elizabeth A (Poucher) Smith was born in Seneca, Lenawee Co, MI Nov 25, 1857. Her

father was a native of Claverock, Columbia Co., NY and was the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Miller)

Poucher.  They came to MI in 1846 and settled in Adrian. [See Anthony Poucher's record in Vol. 2,

Whitney & Boner's History and Biographical Record of Lenawee Co.]

(Unknown newspaper source)

Edward Smith (OW no stone*) one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of this

community passed away Sunday at the advanced age of 71 years.  Following is the obituary:

Edward Smith was born in Camder, Tioga Co., NY Oct 13, 1832 and died at his home in this

village April 3, 1909 being 71years, 5 months, and 20 days old. He was of a family of 12

children to whom, six boys and four girls came to the maturity.  In 1834 his parents came

to Ohio, settling near Monroeville, Huron Co, where he remained until 1853 when he and two

brothers came to Fairfield Lenawee Co., MI and purchased homes and resided there many years. 

When wishing to retire from the more active duties of the farm life which he had followed

he went to Adrian and later came to Lyons, where he has resided for many years.

In early life he was married to Miss Katherine Kendall and to them was born one child but

mother and child passed into the great beyond soon.  He was again married to Miss Cynthia

Catlin and to them was born three children, but again the grim reaper thrust in his sickle

and the wife and two of the little ones were taken, leaving one son who with his family mourn

the loss of the father.  In 1886 he was again married to Miss Chloe Savage, who survives him.

All of the family with the exception of one brother, Edwin they bring twins and the youngest

of the family, have passed into the great beyond.  In the early years of his manhood he espoused

the cause of Christ and took membership with the body of people known as Christians and later

on became a member of the church of Christ in this place, remaining a faithful and consistent

member until death. For a number of years his health has been very poor but the patient

ministries of a loving and faithful wife and son have been his bless and comfort him in his

declining years.

The funeral services were held Wednesday at ten o'clock at the Disciple church and were largely

attended.  Rev. O O Olney officiated.  Interment in the Weston cemetery.

Contributed by Wayne Carpenter

*Note: Edwin Smith is in plot 155, Edward's twin brother

Nov 26, 1916, Adrian Daily Telegram, pg 1 col 6:

James Monroe Swick (OW, no stone)

Weston Man Dies Suddenly

James Monroe Swick, aged 80; Funeral services on Monday

Special to the Telegram,

Weston, Nov 25 - James Monroe Swick, aged 80 years, who has been making his

home with Mr & Mrs J R Vine of this place died suddenly last night at 10 o'clock

at the home of William Lockwood, where he had been spending the day.

Funeral services are to be held Monday at 1:30 at the Baptist Church. 

Burial will occur in the Weston Cemetery.

Nov 28, 1916 Adrian Daily Telegram, pg 8 col 2:

James Monroe Swick, eldest son of Jehiel & Rebecca Swick, was born near

Farmersville County, NY, June 10, 1836 and died at the home of Wm Lockwood,

near Weston, Nov 24, 1916, aged 80 years.

He was married to Mary Haggerty and to this union were born three daughters,

Mrs. George Rhinehart of East Maumee St, Adrian, Mrs. Lee Rhinehart of Ogden and

Nina of Detroit.  A number of grandchildren, one brother in New York and numerous

other relatives survive.

He was converted some years ago and was steadfast in the Christian faith.  He had

worked during the day and just as evening came, he said he was feeling ill and

asked to be helped up that he might pray.  A few hours later he died.

Quoted from the book 'Illustrated History and Biographical Record of Lenawee County, MI 1903',

page 346:

Rev Howard B Taft was born in Van Buren, Onondaga Co., NY Aug 8, 1830, and

removed with his parents to West Barre, Fulton Co., in 1844.  His father, Deacon Amos

Taft, was born in Barre, VT, April 11, 1797, and was the son of Peter and Phoebe

(Wheaton) Taft.  In 1680 Robert Taft cam from England, settled in Mendon, Mass. And

founded the Taft family in America.  Deacon Amos Taft left his native town, in VT when he was

a young man and settled in Onondaga Co., NY Nov 12, 1820 he married at Camillus, Onondaga Co.,

NY Miss Sally Bailey, daughter of Ebenezer and Silvia Bailey, who were pioneers of Central NY. 

They had 8 children, Howard B being the fourth son and sixth child. Mrs. Sally (Bailey) Taft

was born at Fort Ann, NY Feb 11, 1799 and died at West Barre, Fulton Co., OH April 1871. 

Deacon Amos Taft was a farmer, owned a large farm in Fulton Co., OH and was a prominent man there. 

He was postmaster at West Barre for many years, was Deacon in the Baptist church for fifty years

and was superintendent of the Sunday school for the same length of time.  He died while on a visit

to Elkport, Iowa, Aug 20, 1880, but is buried beside his wife at West Barre, OH.  Rev. H. B. Taft

the subject of this sketch was raised a farmer, assisted his father in clearing his new land in OH

and lived at home until 1851, when we went to Maumee City, OH to attend school.  He soon became an

assistant teacher there.  He remained there for some time, preparing for a college course.  In the

spring of 1855 he entered Kalamazoo College, where he remained for about 6 years, when 1861 he

graduated from the theological department, having graduated in 1859 from the classical course. 

In the fall of 1861 he accepted a call from the Baptist church at Perrysburg OH where he was ordained

and remained for three years.  In 1864 he was installed as pastor of the Baptist church at Salem, MI

where he remained until 1870.  That year he went to Otsego, MI where his health failed him.  In 1871

he accepted a charge in Fairfield, now the Weston Baptist church.  He preached here for eight years

when, in 1879 he went to White Pigeon, MI in charge of the church there and remained until 188. 

He then went to Paw Paw, MI remaining until 1891.  Then to Tekonsha in 1891-93; Mt Vernon, MI 1894-98;

Medina, this county, 1899, since which time has resided at Weston, this county.  Owing to ill-health in

1899 he has not been active and has only preached occasionally as a supply.  June 30, 1861, Rev. H B Taft

married Miss Harriet C Cole (OW 5-87) daughter of Rev. A H and Lydia Cole of West Barre, OH and they had two children as follows: Miner C born at Perrysburg, OH  July 19, 1862 married Miss Mary Jean Hoag,

Sept 8 ,1892 has four children and resides at Kalamazoo, MI  where he is city civil engineer; George W

born in Salem, MI, July 17, 1865 married Mary Boyden in 1889.  Had two children (twins) born in Japan,

Nov 2, 1890. He was a Baptist missionary in Japan for 8 years and is now pastor of the Oakmont, PA Baptist

Church.  Mary (Boyden) Taft died in Japan, Nov 2, 1890.  He was married a second time to Miss Jessie R

Hampstone, and they have three children.  Mrs. Harriet C (Cole) Taft was born in Spencer, OH Dec 20, 1835

and died at Salem, MI  March 4, 1868.  Nov 26, 1869 Rev H B Taft married Miss Emma F Brigham, daughter

of Dexter and Deborah (Shaw) Brigham and they have two children as follows: Erwin B born in Fairfield

this county, July 2, 1872 is a Baptist preacher no located at Prescott, AZ; Mary Alice, born in Fairfield

this county, Oct 7, 1878 a teacher in the public schools at Homer, MI.  Mrs. Emma F (Brigham) Taft was

born in Harrisville, Alcona Co., Nov 10, 1842.  All Mr. Taft's children are graduates of Kalamazoo College.

Unknown Newspaper source

HALE AT NINETY

Mrs Sarah J Ten Brook (Fairfield, no stone) is Nearing Century Mark.

She has lived in Fairfield for 57 years

Although Mrs. Sarah J Ten Brook, of Fairfield Twp is 90 years old today, nevertheless she is quite hale.  Her eyesight is better than it used to be, for one time she had to wear glasses and now she does not, and her hearing is but slightly impaired.  Her memory although not so good as a few years back is still quite good.  Three years ago the aged lady received a fall at her home and broke her hip, and although she is able to get about the house without assistance she has not been away from home much since that time.

Sarah J was the third of 11 children born to Mr and Mrs James Allison and was born June 22, 1815 in eastern NY.  She moved with her parents to Ypsilanti, this state, in 1837, the year the territory became a state and was married June 8 the following year to John Ten Brook.  They went back to NY state where they resided until 1846 new Horseheads. At the time they came to Lenawee Co and settled first in Dover Twp, where they spent a year and then moved into Fairfield Twp, where Mrs. Ten Brook has resided on the same farm located a mile west of Jasper, every since, or in numbers for 57 years.  Her husband departed this life Jan 10, 1865.

Mrs. Ten Brook has been a very earnest Christian woman.  She has been a member of the Baptist faith every since 16 years of age and joined the church at Weston eight years after its founding in 1838.  She is now the oldest member of the church, both in point of age and length of membership and the church tendered her a very pleasant reception this afternoon between the hours of 1 and 5 o’clock at the home of her son, with whom she lives.

There were five children born to Mr and Mrs Ten Brook, but only one is living, Judson B Ten Brook, with whom she makes her home. There are also 13 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren although death has taken away three grand children and two great grandchildren.  Mrs. Ten Brook’s father died quite young but her mother lived to be over 80 and one sister lived to reach the age or 86.  She is the oldest of her three brothers and one sister, but all of them have passed the 70 mark and some of them are nearly to the 80 mark. They are: Gabriel Allison of Horseheads, NY; Nathaniel Allison, Brockport, NY; and Wm. B. Allison and Mrs. Lucinda Meade, at Elmyra, NY.  Mrs. Phoebe Allison of Budlong street, this city, is also a sister-in-law.  Mrs. Ten Brook is highly respected by all who know her and the many friends hope to help her celebrate her centennial.

(Unknown) Herald, August 11, 1898

This is a partial obit of Susan Ten Brook:

Porter- Ten Brook, Susan, (OW 20-148) daughter of John and Sarah Ten Brook was born in Chemung Co., N. Y. on March 31, 1842.

  She was converted at the age of eighteen and baptized by Rev. J. A. Clark into the fellowship of the Fairfield (now Weston) Baptist church.  In August 16, 1862, she was united in marriage to her mourning husband, W. G. Porter.  She was a ......... (sorry, more to come)

 Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

Morenci Observer, Saturday, October 18, 1890

  Mrs. Naomi Wade (OW 7-53)

  On Saturday morning, Oct. 11th, at the residence of Mrs. Herbert Williams, Seneca, Mrs. Naomi Wade very suddenly died, aged 70 years, 8 mos. and 22 days.  Her birthplace was Cambridgeshire, England.  In 1844 she was married to Mr. Matthew A. Wade.  In 1850 they emigrated to America, making their home near Brockport (Lockport?) N. Y.  Here they resided until 1864, when they came to Michigan, locating in the town of Fairfield.  Into this family seven children were born.  Five survive the mother.  The eldest son, Joseph, resides in Adrian; George and William and a daughter, Mrs. Rose Williams, live in Fairfield, while one daughter, Mrs. Kiner, is a resident of Seneca.  In 1874 Mrs. Wade was called to part with her husband.  Three years ago last spring she had a severe fit of sickness, and since then she had been feeble, growing more so daily.  She was an affectionate mother, a kind neighbor, highly esteemed and respected by all.  Her funeral was large attended from the Baptist church, Weston, October 13, Rev. T. S. Woodin officiating.  A brother, aged 75, and his wife, from Lockport, N. Y. were present at the funeral. 

 Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

Unknown Newspaper Source

Fairfield, Feb 19-Lewis A. White, aged 84 years, a life-long resident of Fairfield, died yesterday morning in the home of his son Claude White in Jackson after a few days illness.

He is survived by his widow Anna with whom he celebrated his 62^nd wedding anniversary last year, two daughters Mrs. Alfred E hill of Jackson and Mrs. Grover Sager of Seneca, two brothers Alva White of Adrian and Arthur White of Oregon, one half-brother Millard White of Adrian, two sisters Mrs. Alma Cowell of Fairfield and Mrs. Sylvia Parker of Maywood, Neb. Eleven grand children and 12 great grandchildren also survive. Two sons preceded him in death in infancy.

On the death of his father in 1877, Mr. White and his brother Orlando who died two years ago, continued in the undertaking business which their father had established many years ago.  He was a member of the Masonic lodge and Order of the Eastern Star in Fairfield and for the last 22 years was Tyler for those organizations.

The body will be at the Braun Funeral Home in Adrian until Monday noon and the funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock in the Baptist church in Fairfield.  Members of the Masonic lodge of Fairfield will assist in the service and the burial will be in the Fairfield cemetery.(F-26-6)

 Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

(Unknown) Herald, August 11, 1898 

Williams, Frederick Endel (OW 21-149), was born in Monmouthshire, Wales, April 23rd, 1852.

  He came to this country when he was about two years old.  Married Miss Rose Wade, Dec. 13, 1874.  He united with the Baptist church of Weston nearly twenty-five years ago.  He has been a sufferer from Bright's disease for five years; but has had the strength of a Christian to maintain him.  He leaves three brothers, one sister, three children, and a wife.  These, together with many friends, mourn the loss of one who was a good neighbor, a true friend, and a kind loving father and husband.  But we sorrow not as they that have no hope.  His funeral, conducted by his pastor Rev. F. W. Gookin occurred on the 16th of June 1898. 

Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

Unknown newspaper source, June 18, 1898

 Endel Williams (OW 21-149, no stone), who has been a sufferer for the past five years with a complication of diseases, passed to his long rest Wednesday morning at 6 o'clock.  He was buried in the Weston cemetery, the funeral being held at the Baptist church, at 2 o'clock, Thursday afternoon. 

 Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

Adrian Daily Telegram

Herbert M. Williams (OW 21-149)

Tecumseh, November 15. 1943.  Herbert Matthew Williams, 59 years old, died Saturday morning (Nov. 13) at 11:30 o'clock at his home in Raisin Township.  He is survived by the widow Irene Williams, a son Lawrence W. of Raisin Township, a step-son Lyle W. Calhoun of Palmyra Township, a step-daughter Mrs. Kathryn A. Righter of Adrian, six grandchildren, two sisters Mrs. Bessie Tew of Medina and Mrs. Mattie Klink of Sand Creek, an uncle William Wade of Adrian and several nieces and nephews.  The funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock in the Belding Funeral Home with Reverend D. S. Carmichael of Holloway officiating.  The burial will be at Weston Cemetery. 

nknown newspaper source)

Contributed by Julia Klink, jklink@sandcreektelco.com

Monday, March 14, 1949, Adrian Daily Telegram

Ernest E Wilson (NW 6-95)

Ernest E Wilson, 62 years old of Weston, died Saturday morning at the home of his brother and wife.  Mr. & Mrs. Edward Wilson in Knoxville, TN, where he had been spending the winter.

Born in Sylvan, NC April 16, 1887, the son of James N and Florence E Wilson, Mr. Wilson spent his early life in TN and OK, moving with his family to MI in 1929.  Since then he has lived in the vicinity of Adrian.

He is survived by his wife Rosa Lee Wilson; seven daughters, Mrs. Sam Marrell of Rochester, NY, Mrs. Thomas Turner of Boston, Mass., Mrs. Walter Weiner of Long Island, NY, Mrs. Harold Clark and Miss Betty Wilson of Des Moines, IA and Miss Emma Jean Wilson of Adrian; four sons, James B Wilson of Houston, TX, Robert B and Charles Ray and Roy all of Adrian; ten grandchildren and one great grandchild.  Mr. Wilson was preceded in death by one son Ernest Jr. and one daughter Dorothy Lousie.  He is also survived by six brother. Ed Wilson of Knoxville,  E.P. Wilson of SC, Claude, Gene, Fred and Abb all of OK; two sisters Mrs. Mae Featherson of OK and Mrs. Edna Marrow of TX.

The funeral will be Thursday at 3 pm in the Everisss Funeral home.  The burial will be in Weston Cemetery.  The Rev T.R. Dolson of Hudson will officiate.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

Thursday, February 11, 1971, Adrian Daily Telegram

Mrs. Rosa Wilson (NW 6-95)

Mrs. Rosa Lee Wilson 82 of Hillhaven Convalescent Center died Wednesday about 5:30 pm. She was born August 31, 1888, in Sylvan, NC and came to this area in 1919.  She lived in this area ever since.  She was married to Ernest Wilson, who preceded her in death March 12, 1949.

She is survived by four sons, Robert of Adrian, Charles Ray of Cambridge Lake, Roy of Plymouth and James B of Albuquerque, NM; six daughters, Mrs. John (Elizabeth) Cole of Weston, Mrs. Red (Florence) Turner of Reseda, CA, Mrs. Walter (Loreene) Weiner of Long Island, NY, Mrs. Harold (Evelyn) Clark of Chicago, Mrs. Robert (Jean) Young of Cambridge Lake; 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.  Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Ruth and Dorothy and son Ernest.

Funeral services will be at the Everiss Funeral Home on Saturday at 1:30 pm, with the burial to follow in Weston Cemetery.

Contributed by Lois Wilson, cgwlaw@comcast.net

(Unknown Newspaper source)

In Memoriam

S. Deland Wyman (OW 3-92)

Salina DeLand Wyman, daughter of Joseph and Sally Deland, was born Aug 13, 1847, in Fairfield Twp and died Sept 19, 1902, at Weston, making her age 55 years, one month, eight days.  She was married to William Wyman July 3, 1865, who died March 31, 1880 at the age of 36 years.  To them were born five children, one dying at the age of 12 years and one at the age of six years.  The three remaining are Mrs. George Schomp of

Morenci; Mrs. James B Green, of Weston; and Warren B Wyman of Jasper and Grandma Weatherby with whom she resided, and three brothers, Charles, Martin and Albert DeLand, all of Jasper, survive her. Death summoned her to her eternal home after a short illness of one week and one day.  About ten years ago she accepted Christ as her Savior and since has been a great reader of the Bible, although not a member of any church. Those in attendance from away were S E Bedford and Frank Wyman of Cleveland.

Contributed by Wayne Carpenter