Benjamin Wilson 1863-1954

WILSON, GASRISON, CLAY, OAKES

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 2/20/2023 at 13:41:25

3o December 1954- The Anamosa Eureka

OLIN - Benjamin Franklin Wilson, 91, long-time resident of Olin, died Thursday, Dec. 23, after a few days illness.

Prayer service was held at the home of Mrs. Emma Clay at 1:30 p.m. followed by the public service at the Olin Evangelical United Brethren church at 2 p.m. with Rev. Lloyd Dutro, pastor, in charge.

Nellie Stivers sang, "Shadows" and "The Old Rugged Cross" accompanied by Elna Rohwedder at the organ. Velma Switzer and Erma Dutro assisted with the floral arrangements. Casket bearers were Henry Houstman, Raymond James, Bliss Switzer, Frank Phillips, Ervin Hotz and Mervin Hotz. Interment was in the Olin cemetery.

Benjamin Franklin Wilson, son of Isaac and Mary Perigo Wilson, was born near Cameron, Ill., March 4, 1863. He was the last of a family of 13 children.

He was married to Eva Gasrison Jan. 29,1890, at Monmouth, Ill. Four children, two daughters and two sons were born to this union.

Family moved to Olin in 1903 living here about six years then moving to New Mexico and to Kansas, where he lived for many years. Mr. Wilson returned to Olin in 1940 and had made his home here since that time.

While a young man he engaged in farming but was forced to give up this occupation because of his health. He taught school for a number of years and also operated a store for some time.

He was a member of the Christian church. He had always been active in the life of the church until failing health had made it impossible for him to attend.

Mr. Wilson had a talent for poetry. He was the author of a number of poems, many of which had a religious emphasis.

He was preceded in death by his wife who died March 9, 1947.

Surviving are two daughters, Emma Clay, Olin, and Mrs. Ruby Oakes, Butler, Mo.; and two sons, Lee Wilson, Lawn, Tex., and Earnest Wilson, Kansas City, Mo.

He is also survived by four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews, and other relatives.