Obituary of Eli CURTIS, Richland County, Illinois Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives Copyright 1999 Mike Dean From the Olney Daily Mail October 1, 1951: Eli Fremont Curtis, son of Phineas and Nancy Jane (Edwards) Curtis, was born February 25, 1857 in Ripley County, Indiana, being the next to the youngest of a family of 10 children. At the age of 8 years, he came with his parents from Nebraska, Ind. to Richland County, where he lived until his departure. While he was still a young man, he became a member of the Shields Christian Church of which he helped to build, and was the oldest and thought to be the last remaining charter member of this now abandoned church. On September 4, 1879, he was united in marriage to Martha Jane Gardner, and to this union six children were born. Two sons Nolan and Edward, one daughter and his wife all preceded him in death. The two sons died in infancy, the daughter, Mrs. Maude Hornback, going in July,1928 and his wife passing away in 1932. At his passing on September 30, 1951, he leaves two daughters, Zula Kinkade of Piper City, Illinois and Mrs. Jo Runyon, Noble, Illinois, and one son Gilbert of Olney. Also four grandchildren, Marie Dean , Ralph Kinkade, Cebert Hornback and Marie Runyon. Eight great grandchildren, Norma Beck, Jack Dean, Bob Kinkade, Betty Shaughnessy, Bruce Dean, Dale Kinkade, Ronnie and Mary Sue Hornback. Two great great grand children John Curtis Dean and Pamela Elizabeth Dean. Also 3 nephews and three nieces. It has been witnessed that Mr. Curtis was a kind and considerate husband, a kind and loving father, and took great pleasure in being with his relatives. His sincere words, " God bless you every one," were characteristic of his love and endearment to all of them. His fine neighborliness, friendly spirit, and wonderful personality won him the love and respect of those who became acquainted with him. He, being a pioneer of good character, has contributed to everlasting good, his works will be remembered and appreciated. ------------------------------------------------------------------ USGENWEB NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by other organiza- tions or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the contri- butor, or the legal representative of the submitter, and contact the listed USGenWeb archivist with proof of this consent. ----------------------------------------------------------------- File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Mike Dean