W. M. Mead, who passed away on the 4th of June, 1914, at the venerable age of eighty-eight years, was long and actively identified with general agricultural pursuits in Delaware county and at the time of his demise owned two hundred acres of valuable land in Delaware township. His birth occurred in Indiana on the 7th of June, 1826, his parents being Chauncey and Elizabeth (Moss) Mead, natives of the state of New York. In the early '50's he came from the Hoosier state to Iowa, residing in Jones county for a quarter of a century. On the expiration of that period he removed to Delaware county, purchasing and locating on the farm where he spent the remainder of his life. His undertakings as an agriculturist were attended with a well merited and gratifying measure of success and at the time of his death he owned two hundred acres of rich and productive land in Delaware township, in which property his widow still has an interest. She likewise owns another tract of forty acres. Mr. Mead was called to his final rest on the 4th of June, 1914, and his remains were interred in the Oakland cemetery, the community thus losing one of its most venerable and esteemed citizens.
    Mr. Mead was married twice, his first union being with Miss Louisa Webster, by whom he had six children, of whom three sons survive. The wife and mother passed away on the 1st of April, 1901, and in 1906 Mr. Mead wedded Mrs. M. J. Lawrence, the widow of Sidney Lawrence, who lies buried in the Union cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence were born seven children, five of whom are yet living.
    In his political views Mr. Mead was a stanch republican, believing firmly in the principles of that party. He held several township offices and ever discharged his public duties in a most creditable and commendable manner.
    His life was above reproach in every relation and his memory is cherished by many who knew him. His widow, who survives and makes her home in Delaware township, has an extensive circle of friends and acquaintances here.