Obituary: Rock County, Wisconsin: John A. EVANS ************************************************************************ Submitted by Ruth Ann Montgomery, June 2005 © All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ************************************************************************ John A. Evans was born in England, April 11, 1867, and died in Evansville, Wis., Wednesday evening at 10:30, Aug. 9, 1905, after a few hours illness, of apoplexy. He came to the United States with his parents when only two years of age, and has resided in Evansville ever since. He was united in the bonds of holy matrimony to Miss Adelia Moessner, Jan. 1, 1894. Two children blessed this union, viz. Milan M. and Carol, who with Mrs. Evans are in deep sorrow on account of the sudden death of a kind husband and loving father. Decedent was apparently in good health up to about six o'clock on the day of his death, when he left his place of business for the home of his parents, his own home being closed on account of the family visiting relatives in Madison. He informed his mother that he believed something was seriously the matter with him; she prepared him light refreshments, of which he partook. It then appeared necessary to call a physician and Dr. C. M. Smith, Jr., was summoned, who did everything possible to relieve the sufferer. In a short time he sank into a comatose condition from which he never rallied, and passed away from earthly scenes in the parental home. It seemed providential that his dear wife and children returned home just before he lost consciousness, so that they look on him again in life and heard his voice once more before his departure. Mr. Evans was a partner in business with his father, the name of the firm being known as John Evans & Son. Together they have built up a very prosperous business in the carriage, farm machinery and implement line, as well, as conducting extensive repair and blacksmith shops. He was a fine type of the honest, conservative business man, and in every respect he was an indefatigable worker. He was twice elected to the common council of the city; as an alderman he was very attentive to duty, and watched with more than ordinary interest the progress of our city; his counsels were valuable and his advice was frequently sought in municipal affairs. As a man his character was above reproach, his life was transparently genuine, hypocrisy he despised, goodness always had for him a peculiar fascination; there was a dry, pleasing humorous side to him that attracted many toward him, and ripened them into fast friendships. Truly, a splendid character has been taken from among us. He will not be alone in the better land; two of his brothers, Willie and Charlie, having preceded him thither; Willie at the age of three and one- half years and Charlie of only seventeen months. His father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. John Evans, are heart-broken over this sad bereavement; they both depended upon him so much in so many ways, but especially in the business. Mrs. J. P. Porter is greatly afflicted over the loss of her only brother. The widow and fatherless have anguish no pen can describe, and these with Mr. and Mrs. John Evans, Mrs. J. P. Porter and other relatives, as well as a multitude of friends, feel keenly this untimely removal of an affectionate husband and father, a dutiful son, loving brother and good citizen. "Thy way, not mine, O Lord However dark it be: Lead me by thine own hand, Choose out of the path for me." Funeral services were held at the parental residence on Sunday afternoon; Rev. James Churm, pastor of the M. E. church, officiating. Mr. R. Hartley sang beautiful solos. The floral tributes were numerous and lovely; the house as filled with people and the lawn served as an auditorium for an immense crowd. The minister delivered the sermon from the porch, which was used as a platform. Interment took place at Maple Hill cemetery in the family lot. August 17, 1905, Evansville Review, p. 1, Evansville, Wisconsin