Lincoln Nebraska

Biography of J. W. Searson, Prof.

Professor J. W. Searson, born in 1873 in Nebraska, has made significant contributions to education, particularly in English, at Kansas State Agricultural College. His academic journey includes degrees from the University of Nebraska and a progressive teaching career, leading roles in various educational institutions, and extensive lecturing across multiple states. An accomplished author and editor, Searson has been recognized for his leadership in national educational associations. His commitment to scholarship, coupled with active community involvement, reflects his dedication to both education and civic responsibility.

Biography of R. D. Greer

R. D. Greer, born in Ohio in 1850, has been a significant figure in Malheur County’s development. After moving to Nebraska in 1866, he returned to the West in 1875, eventually settling in Emmett, Idaho. He later engaged in the lumber industry in Weiser and operated a successful mercantile business in Ontario before moving to his current homestead near Owyhee. Greer is noted for his involvement in local progress, including the establishment of the Owyhee ditch, and is an active community member alongside his wife, Alice.

Biographical Sketch of Roswell W. Clement

Roswell W. Clement, born on January 5, 1862, in Middleville, Michigan, has become a notable agriculturist in Malheur County. Raised in Iowa and Nebraska, he moved west in 1881, driving a team to Payette, Idaho. He married Harriet Neal in 1884, and they had four children. In 1895, Clement began cultivating a hundred acres, transforming it into a prosperous farm. His success stemmed from hard work and shrewd management, leading him to become a respected and wealthy figure in the community. He is politically active and committed to educational advancement.

Biography of Samuel V. Mallory

Samuel V. Mallory, a dedicated educator and current superintendent of the Morrill city schools, has a rich history in education across Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Born in Springfield, Illinois, in 1856, he graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1883. His career includes roles as principal and superintendent in various Kansas cities and significant contributions to Oklahoma’s educational system. Active in community and church affairs, Mallory is recognized for his efforts in improving Morrill’s school standards and for promoting it as an ideal place for child-rearing.

Biography of Theodore H. Polace

Theodore H. Polace, born on March 12, 1860, in Illinois, has been a prominent lawyer in Marysville for over thirty-five years. Initially a teacher, he transitioned to law after studying at the University of Michigan. His father, Rev. Gustav W. Polack, was a dedicated Lutheran minister who immigrated from Germany. Married in 1887 to Florence McKee, Theodore and Florence had five children, contributing to both education and agriculture in their community. He remains active in legal practice, with a strong connection to his Lutheran roots.

Biography of William Clarence Howie

William Clarence Howie, born on November 27, 1860, in Iowa, was a distinguished lawyer in Mountain Home, Idaho. He was educated in law through prominent attorneys in Nebraska and established his practice in Idaho in 1890. Known for his systematic methods and dedication to clients, Howie contributed significantly to his community, including serving on the school board and supporting local education initiatives. A staunch Republican, he also participated in political activities. He married Ada Eunice Harris in 1891, and they built a notable residence in Mountain Home.

Biographical Sketch of X. X. Crum

X. X. Crum was a prominent figure in education and real estate, born in Macoupin County, Illinois. He earned an A.B. degree from Blackburn University and served as a school superintendent in various locations. In 1881, he moved to Cleveland, where he contributed to the Chamber of Commerce and wrote its history. Crum also organized the National Safe Lock Co. and later focused on real estate, specializing in city blocks. He was married to Marcia Phelps and had two sons.

Biographical Sketch of John Murton Gundry

John Murton Gundry, born on September 7, 1859, in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, was a prominent banker and attorney. After studying at public schools and Northwestern University, he earned his LL.B. from Baldwin University in 1903. He married Frances Ruth Gilchrist in 1894 and had five children. Gundry held key roles in several banks, including the San Juan County Bank in Colorado and the Mechanics Savings Bank in Cleveland. He was active in various organizations and enjoyed golf and music, with a summer home on Cape Cod.

Biographical Sketch of Leroy Pursel Sawyer

Leroy Pursel Sawyer was born on December 26, 1878, in Schoolcraft, Michigan. He was educated in public schools and graduated with a B.S. in 1899. After marrying Jessamine A. Pike in 1907, they had one son, Joseph. Sawyer had a notable career in real estate and management, serving as general manager of The Buckeye Electric Works and vice president of the National Electric Lamp Association. He was involved in several professional organizations and clubs throughout his life.

Biography of Nelson Antrim Crawford

Nelson Antrim Crawford, a distinguished professor of industrial journalism at Kansas State Agricultural College, has significantly advanced the journalism department since 1914. Previously a newspaper reporter, he served as an English instructor before specializing in journalism. Crawford edits both The Kansas Industrialist and The Kansas Churchman, and is active in numerous professional organizations. Born in South Dakota and raised in Iowa, he earned his degrees from the University of Iowa and the University of Kansas, demonstrating a commitment to education and journalism throughout his career.

Law, Oscar – Obituary

George Law departed for Lincoln, Nebraska, upon hearing of his father’s death. Oscar Law, aged 78, was a Civil War veteran. Last summer, he and his wife attended the G.A.R. reunion in Portland and visited their son and family in Wallowa County. This news was reported in the Wallowa County Reporter on May 22, 1919.

Biography of Frank Strong

Frank Strong, born on August 5, 1859, in Venice, New York, became chancellor of the University of Kansas in 1902. Educated as a lawyer, he shifted to education, serving as a high school principal and later superintendent of schools. A Yale alumnus, he earned degrees while contributing as a lecturer and author of historical works. Active in numerous educational organizations, Dr. Strong was known for his leadership and scholarship. He was married in 1890 and had two children.

Breshears, W.R., Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. W.R. Breshears, aged 65, passed away on April 10, 1942, at Enterprise hospital after a period of ill health. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, she moved to Illinois before settling in Wallowa County 25 years ago. She is survived by her husband, four children—Frances Babb, Vernon, Ralph, and Aetna Reed—and four stepsons. Her son William predeceased her. Funeral services were held at Booth Chapel in Enterprise, officiated by Rev. Oliver M. Adams, with burial at Enterprise cemetery.

Biography of W. F. Kendall

W. F. Kendall, born on November 25, 1880, in Iroquois County, Illinois, has been a prominent figure in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, for over twenty years, operating the Crescent Planing Mills. Initially following his father’s path as a contractor, he shifted to managing the mill in 1920, producing various wood products for the state. He resides with his elderly parents and daughter, Iris Louise, after marrying Kathryn Merkley in 1909. His leadership and business acumen have established him as a respected community member.

Pumphrey, Niola H. – Obituary

Niola H. Pumphrey, 85, of Pendleton, formerly of Union, passed away on May 24 at The Odd Fellows Home in Walla Walla. Born on May 28, 1922, in Spencer, Nebraska, she graduated from the University of Nebraska and enjoyed a successful career in home economics education. Niola was actively involved in volunteer work, particularly with 4-H and local organizations, including the Federated Women’s Club. She is survived by her husband, Vance, and their children. Funeral services will be held on Monday at the First United Methodist Church in Pendleton.

Harris, Emma Jane Ormsby – Obituary

Mrs. Emma J. Harris, aged 87, passed away at her home on July 9, 1947. She is survived by her daughters, Essie Harris and Eva L. Springer, and her three sons, Ernest, Orville, and Earl, all from Lincoln. Additionally, she leaves behind eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Her burial is set for Lincoln Memorial Park. This obituary was featured in the Lincoln Star and contributed by Shelli Steedman.

Cooke, Ada Rich – Obituary

Ada C. Cooke, age 89, passed away on May 22, 1981, at Haven House Nursing Home. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on August 3, 1891, she moved to Ellensburg in 1905. Ada married Edward V. Cooke in 1908 and lived in Yakima before returning to Ellensburg in 1947. She was an active member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church and the Country Mothers Club. Ada is survived by her two sons, two daughters, eight grandchildren, and numerous relatives. Her funeral is set for Tuesday at Evenson Chapel.

Hayes, Katherine Etta “Katie” Harris Mrs. – Obituary

Katherine Etta “Katie” Hayes, 81, passed away on August 9, 2005, following a knee replacement. Born in Salina, Kansas, on August 21, 1923, she contributed to the war effort as a Western Union operator before marrying Walter Hartwell Hayes in 1943. The couple raised three children in Baker City, where Katie was a dedicated homemaker, active in her community through square dancing and genealogy research. She is survived by her husband, two children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Biography of Charles W. Fleming

Charles W. Fleming, born in 1858 in Pennsylvania, began his printing career at fifteen as an apprentice. By eighteen, he moved to Nebraska, working with the State Journal Company for eight years before heading to Riverside in 1885. There, he established the Commercial Job Office and later became the business manager of the Riverside Daily Tribune. In 1889, he launched the Phoenix, his independent weekly paper. An active community member and staunch Republican, he is also involved in various fraternal organizations. Fleming married Edith Roberts and has a daughter, Cecile.