BEARCE, Maria N. (Israel) 1837-1923

BEARCE, ISRAEL, GARDNER, SHATTUCK

Posted By: S. Ferrall - IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 11/12/2024 at 16:35:30

Mrs. Maria N. Bearce, one of Waukon's earliest residents and greatly loved and most highly esteemed women, who has made her home at New Hampton during recent years, died there last Friday forenoon, succumbing to an attack of pneumonia.

Maria N., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Israel, was born in Warren county, Pa., Oct. 11, 1837, and died March 2, 1893 [sic], aged 85 years, 4 months and 2 days.

At the age of 18 years she came to Waukon with her parents in the spring of 1855, and from that time until a few years ago her residence here was continuous.

She was married to L.M. Bearce in 1859. To them were born a son and daughter, Clifton L. and Ruth, now Mrs. Henry W. Gardner of New Hampton. Mr. Bearce died July 12, 1903, and her children survive to mourn the loss of a most devoted and loving mother.

Mrs. Bearce was a member of the Eastern Star and of the Women's Literary Club and it was one of the pleasures of her life during these later years to visit Waukon and meet with them, always a welcome and honored visitor.

Always and everywhere, as long as strength permitted, she rendered good service in whatever position she was placed. The Christian loving kindness of her heart was always shedding its cheering light on the community.

The remains, accompanied by the relatives, arrived in Waukon Saturday evening and were taken to the Hon. I.E. Beeman home. Funeral services were held there Sunday at 3 p.m. conducted by A.M. May, assisted by Rev. Butler and Rev. Van Nice. Mrs. W.T. Gilchrist of the Women's Literary Club sang, "One Sweetly Solemn Thought" and "Abide With Me." Interment in Oakland cemetery.

~Allamakee Journal and Lansing Mirror, Wednesday, March 7, 1923; pg 2

Notes:
-the obit printed a DOD error - it should read died March 2, 1923.

- Maria's mother was Aurilla (Shattuck) Israel, d/o William & Mary (Hart) Shattuck.