John Boehler was a successful farmer of Jackson township, owning and operating one hundred and sixty acres on section 17. A native of Germany, he was born June 17, 1862, and was a son of Jacob and Barbara Boehler, who were also born in that country and there passed their entire lives. In 1888, when a young man of twenty-six years, our subject emigrated to America and, making his way westward, located in Adair county, Iowa. For some time he worked as a hired hand, thus acquiring the necessary capital to purchase a farm of his own. He became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres on section 17, Jackson township, and made a number of improvements upon the place. He followed general farming and at the time of his death was well-to-do.
In 1889 occurred the marriage of Mr. Boehler and Miss Barbara Fleischmann, also a native of Germany and a daughter of Philip and Anna M. Fleischmann, both of whom died in the fatherland. She came to America in 1888. To Mr. and Mrs. Boehler were born eight children: Mary, deceased; Robert E., who is residing with his mother; William F.; Louisa M.; Lillie E.; John; Emma B., deceased; and George G.
Mr. Boehler was a democrat and rendered acceptable service as school director. He was a member of the Reformed Lutheran church and the Odd Fellows lodge at Bridgewater, but his family attend the Methodist Episcopal church at that place. He passed away June 6, 1913, and was laid to rest in the Witt cemetery, leaving a widow and six children as well as many friends to mourn his demise. He measured up to high standards of manhood and held the unqualified respect of all who came in contact with him whether in business or social relations. Mrs. Boehler still owns the home farm in Jackson township, which she operates with the help of her sons. She manages her business affairs well and her many admirable qualities endear her to a host of friends. |
