Ralph Bossman's life

 RALPH BOSSMAN

 

Ralph Bossman was born in Holthusen, East Friesland, Germany, September 4, 1838, and passed away at his home near Lennox, Thursday, September 20, 1928, at the age of 90 years and 16 days.

 

Mr. Bossman came to the United States in the year of 1867, settling at Freeport, Illinois, where he resided for a few years.   He then took up his residence on a farm near Wellsburg, IA, and was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude Kuper June 27, 1874.  This union was blessed with 13 children, two of them dying in infancy, and one son, Harmanus, at the age of 18 years in the spring of 1905.  Mrs. Bossman, his wife, passed away on May 25, 1923.

 

The children who remain to mourn his death are Mrs. Pete Vietor, Lennox; Jerry R. Bossman, Lennox', Mrs. J.H. Jacobs, Lennox; John Bossman, Cedar Falls, IA; Henry Bossman, Lennox; Tom Bossman, Lennox; Ben Bossman, Lennox; Mrs. Robert Must, Harrisburg; and Mrs. Ben F. Smit, Lennox;  Others who survive him are 32 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, one brother, George Bossman, SR, and two sisters, Mrs. Harm Buus, (nee Hedina Bossman, the great grandmother of Jean Plucker Straatmeyer and the great aunt of Gene Straatmeyer - this was not in the paper but is the typist's addition.  The above share great, great grandparents, Jurgen Bossman and Swantje Geersma.), and Mrs. John Geersma and many other relatives.

 

In 1878, Mr. & Mrs. Bossman and children moved to their farm in Middleton township, where they resided until they retired and took up their residence.  Since the death of Mrs. Bossman, Mr. Bossman has made his home with his daughter Mrs. J.J. Jacobs north of town.  

 

Mr. Bossman is one of the few to attain the age of 90 years, and his life as been a blessing to all with whom he has been associated.  Always ready to help in the time of need, he was a splendid father, husband and neighbor and his friends were legion.  He was a faithful member of the First Turner County Presbyterian Church and held many important offices in that religious institution and its existence and growth has been in large measure to he and his fellow pioneer workers of the early day.  

 

The funeral services were held first at the home and then at the Turner County First Presbyterian Church Monday afternoon at 12:30.  The remains were laid to rest in the cemetery there beside his wife.  Rev. Rops, the pastor, assisted by Rev. Fred J. Peterson of Lennox, and Rev. JAW. Wienands of LaValley Presbyterian Church conducted the services.