At 12:30 a.m. on last Wednesday, May 16, 1917, one of Coldwater's best citizens, Ira D. Powell, passed away, after an illness extending through several months, during which time he had been a constant sufferer from a complication of stomach and bowel disorders. He had undergone two surgical operations during the past year and had spent considerable time in a Wichita hospital, yet he endured all his long continued physical discomforts uncomplainingly. He accepted without a murmur the Divine Plan concerning his life, and when it became evident that he could not survive, he expressed no fear or dread of death; rather, he was entirely prepared for and welcomed that event.Ira David Powell was born in Mitchell co., Iowa, on November 3, 1876. His age at the time of his death was, therefore, 40 years, 6 months and 13 days. On June 5, 1895, in Thornton, Iowa, he was united in marriage with Miss Emma Boelk, who died on May 28, of the following year. To this union one daughter, Emma Ione, was born. On June 23, 1899, in Nebraska City, Nebraska, Mr. Powell remarried, the bride being Miss Anna Elizabeth Heisner, who, with the daughter, survives him. In the year 1901, Mr. and Mrs. Powell moved to this county, and here they continued to make their home, with the exception of a part of one season. During the past 13 years, Mr. Powell had been the trusted manager for the Morrison Grain Co. of this city, and in that capacity he made many business friends by his fair dealing, business-like methods and courteous treatment of the public. At all times Mr. Powell had the confidence of his employer, as he was dependable and faithful under all circumstances.
Deceased was of that type of men who are a blessing and a real help to the community in which they live. In his home life he always exhibited the utmost kindness and consideration. On February 15, 1915, Mr. Powell became a member of the Presbyterian church in this city, having been converted in the Rayburn meetings. He died with an abiding trust in Christ as his savior.
Besides the wife and daughter, Mr. Powell is survived by his father, Z. T. Powell, a brother, O. A. Powell of Ordway, Colo., and Mrs. H. S. Kimple of this city.
The funeral services, as now planned, will be held from the Presbyterian church at 4 p.m. on Friday.
Ira David Powell is buried in Crown Hill Cemetery.
Thanks to Shirley Brier for finding, transcribing and contributing the above news article to this web site!
This RootsWeb website is being created by Jerry Ferrin with the able assistance of many Contributors. Your comments, suggestions and contributions of historical information and photographs to this site are welcome. Please sign the Guest Book. This page was last updated 11 March 2005.