OBITUARY: William G. Fraser, 1826-1903, Mitchell Co., Iowa




                             William G. Fraser

William G. Fraser was born in Livingston, N.Y. Aug. 14, 1826 and died at his
home in Osage, Ia. Nov.. 18, 1903.  While still a young man he came west as
far as Fond du Lac Co. Wis., where for a few years he engaged in farming.
But again being impelled by the progressive spirit of the west he came
still further and located in June 1855 at what is now Burr Oak, (Cardiff),
Mitchell Co. Iowa, being one of the very earliest settlers of this township.
In fact, he assisted in the following year in the organization of the
township of Burr Oak and was elected one of the trustees.

He at once secured from the government 1/2 section of land and in connection
with his farming, in 1856, with a partner, opened the first store in the
township at what was then known as Leo, but now Cardiff.  Though absent in
California for three years, having gone overland, his farm had been
practically his place of residence until about 14 years ago when on account
of failing health he came to Osage, where he continued to live until his
death.

On December 24th, 1857, he was united in marriage to Helen J. Gilbert.  Mr.
and Mrs. Fraser shared in the general hardships and privations of pioneer
life.  All of the children with the exception of the eldest who died in
infancy, are still living, Bradley, Herbert, Chas. H., Myrtie, and Jennie,
now Mrs. Eastlee.  All were privileged to be present at the death of and
to minster to their father in his last illness, especially Miss Myrtie, who
has always made her home with her parents.

An unusually large number of old friends and neighbors gathered at the home
on last Thursday afternoon to attend the funeral service which was conducted
in a simple manner by Rev. Coon.

        

   This transcription was submitted to IAGENWEB for personal family history
          purposes only, and shall not be used for personal gain.
               Transcribed by: Marilyn O'Connor, August 2005