One of the saddest deaths which has been our duty to chronicle is that of John L. Ward, which occurred in this city on last Friday about 10:15 a.m. Johnny came to town that morning after a load of rock with which to build the foundation of a new house at the Ward home a few miles east of town. He drove four horses and had on about 4200 pounds of rock. He had started home and just as he was crossing the railroad track in the eastern part of town (near Avery residence) and as the loaded wagon was starting down the slight incline on the east side of the track, Mr. Ward, who was driving and riding on top of the loaded wagon, was, in some manner, thrown to the ground, falling immediately under one of the wheels of the heavily loaded wagon, which passed over the upper part of the body, causing severe internal injuries. Several ribs were broken, the lungs and heart were badly crushed and profuse bleeding was the result. Mrs. Henry Gates, who happened to be driving past, was the first to discover the accident. The team had gone only a short distance and had stopped by the roadside. Mrs. J. H. Wilson and Miss Mattie Fish were soon by the side of the unfortunate man, but found him unconscious, and he never regained consciousness. Several persons were soon assembled and did all that could be done. The almost lifeless body was carried a short distance to the home of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Wilson, and about 30 minutes after the accident occurred life became extinct. The body was taken on Saturday to Staffordville, Kans., and was buried in Toledo cemetery near that place by the side of the father, who died a few years ago.Deceased was born in Morgan-co., Ind., on June 27, 1877. He moved with his parents to Kansas several years ago and settled near Staffordville. About 3 years ago he and his widowed mother, two sisters, Callie and Florence, and two brothers, Will and Oliver, moved to this county. They purchased land and are building a home, 5 1/2 miles east of Coldwater. Johnny was an industrious and honorable young man and his untimely death deprives the family of a loving and faithful son and brother, and to them the sincere sympathy of all is extended. Deceased was a member of the Odd Fellows and Woodmen lodge. In the latter order he carried $2000 life insurance.
Oliver H. Ward, brother of John L. Ward.
Thanks to Shirley Brier for finding, transcribing and contributing the above news article to this web site!
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