GEORGE W. GRAEHLING , age 82, passed away Saturday at 10 p.m. at the Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital after a prolonged illness. George Washington Graehling was born near Polo, IL, Jan, 23, 1862, a son of the late Henry and Walberga Graehling. He was married March 26, 1890 to Anna S. Ben, who preceded him in death Aug 15, 1938. To this union six children were born, Jessie McCurtney of Marengo, Clara Bedient of Lee Center, Ruth Emmert of Nachusa, Violet and Ollie Graehling of Chicago, and Alexander of Dixon. In addition to his children, Mr. Graehling is survived by two brothers, Henry and William of Polo, and one sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Peters of Milledgeville; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchIldren. 17 nieces and a host of friends. One grandson, Robert Bedient, is serving in the armed forces of the United States.

In his youth he was interested in the betterment of his home and community, always assuming more than his share of duties and responsibilities. He was trustworthy and considerate of his fellow men and in all his dealings was fair and upright. His intrigity was beyond reproach, all of which exemplified his early Christian teachings which were a source of great satisfaction to him in his declining years. He was generous to a fault and ever ready to give a helping hand to those in need. He admired and was inspired by the great builders of our Nation and his loyalty as a true American citican was unsurpassed. He enjoyed recalling the many interesting changes and incidents of his early life, the compilation of which would have made a most interesting book. He was a great lover of nature, making the study of trees his hobby. Mr. Graehling was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. His family and friends will greatly miss his wise and understanding council.

Dixon Telegraph, July 14, 1944

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