DEATH COMES TO LEAF RIVER'S LAST OLD SOLDIER

Joseph S. Myers, 90, Leaf River's only surviving Civil War veteran, died at his home there at 11:50 p.m. Monday. Death was caused by a broken collar bone, suffered in a fall two weeks ago.

A lifelong resident of Ogle County, Mr. Myers once served five years as Maryland Township supervisor and a term as Chairman of the County Board. He was one of Leaf River's most prominent citizens.

Born in Lincoln Township, Nov. 22, 1842, he was educated in Mount Morris Seminary. In 1860 he became the instructor of the White Eagle School, east of Adeline and shortly afterward, enlisted for Civil War service with the 142nd Illinois Infantry holding the rank of fife major.

Upon his return from the war in October 1864, he resumed teaching in Leaf River Township, retiring twenty-one years later. In 1900, he went to Washington, DC, as an enumerator for the twelth census.

His marriage to Rachel J. Miller, who preceded him in death, took place June 23, 1868. Mr. Myers is survived by a son, George G. Myers, of Leaf River, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Another son, Frank, at one time Minneapolis Superintendent of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad, died in 1913.

Funeral services were held Thursday at 1: p.m. at the home and at 2 p.m. at the United Brethren Church in Adeline, the Rev. Frank D. Sheets of Oregon officiating. Burial will be in the cemetery adjoining the church.

Mr. Myers was familiarly known as "Uncle Joe" and had taken an active part in Leaf River's affairs during his many years of residence in the community. He had kept up his interest of war days in martial music and under his leadership, the local fife and drum corps has graced many a political and social gathering, and added to his acquaintanceship in many neighboring places.

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