Dixon Telegraph Oct 10, 1923 newspaper Account, front page, lower left column :

Franklin Grove Veterinary Dies Suddenly - Dr. Hepfer, well known veterinary at Franklin Grove, died suddenly last Wednesday morning at the home of Arthur Meilke, north of Franklin Grove where he had been called upon professional services. Death is said to have been due to apoplexy. Dr. Hepfer was an able man in his profession and had a wide acquaintance throughout this part of the state.

2nd Obituary. from Marion Roth: By the death of Dr. Wm. Hepfer, this vicinity lost one of its most familiar characters. His presence in the business circle will be greatly missed, as he was always present - and amiable and pleasant to everyone. As a veterinarian, his services were valuable to farmers, and in this profession he has no successor in the immediate vicinity. His sudden death came while he was administering to a sick animal at the Emil Mielke home, north of town. He had not been enjoying the best of health for some time, and prior to leaving for the country had mentioned the fact that he was ill.

Wm. A. Hepfer was born March 15, 1849, at Chambersburg, Franklin Co., PA. and died at his home in Franklin Grove, IL on October 9, 1923, at the age of 74 years, 6 months and 24 days.

He was the youngest son of a family of twelve children - six girls and six boys. His parents, Daniel Hepfer and Rebecca Fox Hepfer, continued their residence at Chambersburg, PA, until called from this life. He was reared under the influence of the German Lutheran faith. Coming to Lee County, IL when 21 years of age, he soon thereafter resided at Lanark and for three years read and practiced in the veterinary profession under the direction of his brother, John, also a veterinarian. Later, the deceased resided in Ogle County about three years and also at Ashton the same period of time. For thirty-nine years, he practiced his profession in Franklin Grove. Death resulted from a cerebral hemorhage.

On May 13, 1875, he was united in marriage to Miss Emily E. Hunsdon of Ogle County. To this union were born - one son, Clarence J., residing north of this city, and one daughter, Adelaide, Mrs. Walter Freer, of Benton Harbor, Michigan. His widow, the two children, one brother, Peter of Upper Lumber City, PA; and one sister, Catharine, Mrs. Theophilus Young, of Hagerstown, MD survive him.

Funeral services were held at the late home Friday afternoon, Rev. C. W. Lahman of the Brethren Church officiating, being assisted by Elder George Brown of Oregon.

Interment was made in the local cemetery.

Submitted by Sue Cramer

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