Iowa In the Great War

Source: Oelwein Register, November 6, 1918, pg. 3

W.D. BLAISDELL IN MEMORIAM
Born Jan. 11, 1892, He Made the Supreme Sacrifice In France, Sept. 18, 1918.

Memorial services for William Delbert Blaisdell, who was killed in action in France September 18, were held in the Christian church Sunday afternoon, conducted by the pastor, Rev. Leisher. There was a large attendance, appropriate music and a fine, patriotic address by the pastor. An outline of his life follows:

William Delbert Blaisdell was born at Howard Lake, Minnesota, January 11, 1892. In 1894 his parents moved to Viliard, where for five years he attended school; they then moved back to Howard Lake, for two years, and then came to Oelwein where William Delbert attended school for two years more. He then went to live with his aunt in Carthage, Illinois for two years, where he finished his schooling.

Several years ago he entered the C.G.W. shops as an apprentice to learn the machinist trade, where he worked till called to service, Oct. 3, 1917. He was killed in action Sept. 18, 1918.

Corporal Blaisdell was an efficient soldier, according to a letter received by his mother, written by his captain from France, and his death keenly felt by his command and comrades, all of whom held him in high esteem.

The corporal finished his earthly career at the age of 26 years, 8 months and 22 days. he leaves to mourn his loss, his mother, Mrs. Ora Johnson, now residing at 820 So. Frederick St., two sisters, Mrs. H.L. Potter of this city, and Mrs. J.H. Kalenbach of East Moline, Illinois, and two brothers, Howard, now serving in the navy, and Earl of this city, besides many friends who will ever honor and revere him for the supreme sacrifice he made at the call of his country.

"Farewell, the maze has been threaded,
This is the ending of strife:
Say not that death should be dreaded,
'Tis but the beginning of life."