J. ANDERSON
J. Anderson, employed as brakeman at Bergen, NJ for about 5 months, was injured on the night of March 14th (1912), and died in St. Francis Hospital from injuries received. Mr. Anderson was a good workman and made many friends while employed by the company. (P. 101)
CHARLES BERGER
Charles Berger died at his residence in Cleveland, Tuesday, March 19th (1912). Mr. Berger has been an employe of this company for 43 years, and, at the time of his death, was Baggage Master on Cleveland-Pittsburg trains 624 and 623. (P. 106)
DENNIS BOCK
After a short illness, Dennis Bock, an old-time telegraph operator, died at Shohola on January 20 (1912). Burial was in Callicoon. (P. 37)
C.W. BRACE
C.W. Brace, a regular Engineer for the past several years, on the Bath & Hammondsport Railroad, recently died at his home, in Hammondsport, N.Y., of erysipelas. He was highly esteemed by his fellow employes and many friends, who extend much sympathy to his surviving family. (P. 104)
SAMUEL BUEL, JR
On July 2nd, 1912, Samuel Buel, Jr. died suddenly of heart failure at his home, 356 West 23rd Street, New York City. He was an old and faithful employe of the Erie Railroad, having been in the Engineering Department of this road for sixteen years.
Born in Cumberland, Maryland, in 1844, he was the son of a professor in the General Theological Seminary. Mr. Buel graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, N.Y., in 1866; after graduation he became Assistant Engineer of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad. In 1868 he was promoted to Division Engineer of the North Division of the Reading road from Pottstown north to Pottsville.
He left the service of the Reading Railroad to enter private business. In 1871 he became General Manager of the Detroit Bridge Company. After that he came to New York City and was more or less interested in engineering enterprises, especially with the Elevated Railroad. In 1896 he became assistant Engineer on the Erie Railroad, in which position he remained until his death.
Mr. Buel was an expert in terminal plans and promised to become one of the best engineers in the country. He would have been very successful, if his health had not given away and his hearing failed. His ideas have had their influence on several of the important terminals of the Erie Railroad.
Funeral was held at Campbell's Chapel on 23rd Street, New York, July 3rd. A number of the employes of the Engineering Department attended.
SAMUEL BURNS, JR.
Samuel Burns, Jr., a clerk in the Accounting Department, died at his home, 142 Wilkinson Avenue, Jersey City, on Sunday, May 5 (1912), of Bright's disease. Interment took place on May 8 at Bay View Cemetery, from Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Jersey City.
Mr. Burns was born in Brooklyn thirty-four years ago, and had been in the Erie service in various departments of the general offices, including the Freight Claims, General Freight and Accounting Departments, for fourteen years.
He was highly esteemed by his associates in the general offices, as a young man of sterling integrity, unusual ability and a hard worker.
Mr. Burns was married to Miss Leah Ashmore at South Amboy, N.J., in September, 1900. Besides his widow, he leaves two children, a boy of ten and a girl five years old. He was a member of the Erie Mutual Benefit Association. (P. 222)
HARRY HAYS CAGE.
Harry Hays Cage, whose death occurred at St. Louis. Mo., March 19th, 1912, after an illness of six days with pneumonia, was born in Canton, Miss., April 23rd., 1864, the son of a physician.
He entered the Erie service as Southern Agent, Erie Dispatch, at Memphis, Tenn., on September 1st, 1894, after some seven years' service with the Star Union Line.
Merit earned him the recognition of the management at different times, and on September 1st., 1911 he was appointed General Southern Agent, Erie Railroad Company, and Agent, Erie Dispatch, and was given jurisdiction over the entire Southern territory.
Mr. Cage was one of the most affable men it has been our good fortune to meet, and know. He had practically no enemies, but a legion of the warmest of friends. In his death, which it is our painful duty to announce, the Erie Company has lost a faithful, efficient and loyal servant, and its employes, a devoted and valuable friend. Mr. Cage is survived by his mother, who lives at Canton, Miss., and his widow, at Memphis, Tenn.
RICHARD S. CAREY
Richard S. Carey, for 42 years employed in the (Kent) blacksmith shop, died Dec. 15th (1912), after an illness of about four weeks, of pneumonia. "Dick," as he was commonly known by everybody, was a good and honest citizen, a good mechanic and trustworthy employe, and during his whole term of service was never reprimanded for any misdemeaner, or misconduct. His shopmates will miss him greatly, on account of his kind-hearted and cheerful ways. Tall in stature, strong in body, he was a familiar figure in the ranks of men and also had a wide acquaintance among the veterans of the Erie.
Mr. Carey was born March 4th, 1851, in Summitville, Columbiana County, Ohio, where his early life was spent. On July 3, 1873, he was married to Miss Eunice Bosler of Kent. She died 14 years ago, leaving six children. On Aug. 10th, 1903, he married Mrs. Jennie Spring; to them three children were born. Besides his widow, six sons and three daughters survive him. The funeral was largely attended by his relatives, shopmates and many local and out-of-town friends. The floral offerings there were many and beautiful.
W.F. CARR.
Mr. W.F. Carr, Agent, Erie Dispatch, at Providence, R.I., died on March 26th (1912). Mr. Carr has been in the Erie service sixteen years, having entered the Company's employ at the Boston Agency in 1896. He is survived by his widow.
JAMES CAMPBELL
James Campbell, employed as Dunmore night shop watchman, was stricken with heart failure while at work Thursday night, Sept. 19th (1912), and died before medical assistance could be summoned. Deceased was a native of Ireland, where he was born in 1851, and immigrated to this country when a young man. He was employed at Dunmore shop July 1st, 1881, and was in continuous service until the time of his death. Mr. Campbell was a faithful and dependable employe, losing but little time in the 31 years of his employment, working in the year 1911 364 days, and enjoyed the remarkable distinction of never having been disciplined by his superiors. His widow and family of five survive. (P. 489)
D.F. COLEMAN
Engineer D.F. Coleman of the Susquehanna Division died at his home in Binghamton, October 26th (1912), after several weeks illness. Mr. Coleman had been in the service for the past 19 years, nine of which he served in the capacity of locomotive engineer. Mr. Coleman was a man held in high esteem, and the sympathy of all is extended to his family in their bereavement. (P. 551)
DANIEL CONNELL
A death that has caused general sorrow on the Mahoning Division, is that of Passenger Conductor Daniel Connell, one of the veterans, who passed away at Cambridge Springs, after undergoing several operations and being compelled to remain away from duty by reason of continued illness.
Mr. Connell had been an employe of the Erie Railroad for 43 years, and was 60 years of age at the time of his death. He started his railroad career carrying water for laboring gangs, but ambition and a resolution to succeed caused him to forge to the front and he didn't stop until he reached the grade of Passenger Conductor.
Mr. Connell was a ready wit and a kindly soul, whose generosity was proverbial and followed his good name even on the trains he ran.
The funeral, which took place at Youngstown where he resided, was largely attended by railroad friends of deceased.
JEREMIAH M. CONNORS
Jeremiah M. Connors, night yardmaster at Jersey City yard, was the victim of a particularly sad accident on the morning of Sept. 18th (1912). In attempting to remove an electric light wire, which had fallen across the tracks, "Marty" received a heavy charge of electricity and was instantly killed. Mr. Connors had been in continuous service on the Erie since November 10th, 1898, commencing as brakeman, and was promoted to conductor, and later as assistant yardmaster on the south side (Jersey City). His work was always of the best quality and it was a known fact that "Marty" had his heart in his work. His loyal service won for him the commendation of his superiors, as well as the admiration of his fellow employees.
NELSON CRIST
Nelson Crist, a Chicago & Erie passenger conductor, died very suddenly in Chicago about the middle of June (1912), from heart trouble. In the death of Mr. Crist, the Erie loses a most popular and able conductor. His nature was all sunshine and good humor, and his friends, accordingly, included as many people as he knew. Without affectation, he was affable, and his sociability was the kind that left good impressions permanently. He knew his business well and always kept himself and others out of trouble. There was never any kick on "Nels" Crist. He was about fifty years old at the time of his death, and was sick but a few days previous to his demise. He is survived by a widow and several grown children. (P. 300)
C.R. DAVEM
C.R. Davem of the Erie Chemical Deptartment and for some time fuel inspector died after a short illness at the age of 22 years. Mr. Davem was a popular young man with a useful and successful future before him. His death will be sincerely mourned. Much sympathy is extended to his bereaved parents, Patrick Davem, foreman of Air-Brake Run and Mrs. Davem. (P. 363)
ISAAC H. DOLSON.
Isaac H. Dolson died at his home in Huntington, Ind., Monday, March 11th (1912) of Pneumonia.
Mr. Dolson or "Hank," as he was familiarly called by the railroad men from Salamanca to Chicago, came to Urbana, 0. when a boy. When the Civil War broke out he was one of the first to answer the call for men, and served his country for four years, participating in many of the hardest fought battles of the Rebellion.
Upon his return to civil life, he commenced work as a Bridge Carpenter on the old A&GW R.R.; being a first-class mechanic, he soon became a Bridge Foreman, a position he held for many years on the Cincinnati Division, then on the Mahoning Division, and in January, 1891, he came to the C.& E. Division, as Bridge Foreman, a position he held to the entire satisfaction of the Company until his death.
"Hank" was a man who did not know the taste of liquor, and a Christian who was respected by all who knew him. He was a Mason in high standing.
JOHN D. DONALDSON.
The little community of Nutley, N.J. has lost one of its oldest citizens. The person referred to is Mr. John D. Donaldson, who, for about 27 years, had served the Erie Railroad faithfully as its station agent.
His death occurred on Saturday, April 13th (1912), of rheumatism. Mr. Donaldson was 61 years old. He came to Nutley when a boy, and was always interested in the welfare of the town. He was at one time Town Clerk.
When the late Henry C. Bunner, editor of "Puck", was a resident of Nutley, he persuaded Mr. Donaldson to enter the newspaper field, and for many years he corresponded for several papers, in addition to his work as agent for the Erie. He was a member of the Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and Junior Order American Mechanics, and is survived by a widow and three daughters. (P. 158)
FRANK P. ECCLESTON.
Mr. Frank P. Eccleston of the Auditor of Disbursements' office, died at his home in Ramsey, N.J., on March 13th (1912), of tuberculosis, which developed from a long siege of stomach trouble.
Mr. Eccleston was 59 years of age, and had been in the Erie service for 25 years. He was a member of Lafayette Council, Royal Arcanum, Essex Lodge, F.&A.M., and a member of the Erie Mutual Benefit Association. He is survived by his widow, a son, 18 years of age, and a daughter of 15.
Deceased had many friends in the general offices, where he was well and favorably known, and the floral tributes at his funeral, on March 17th, were beautiful and appropriate, representing the offices of the Auditor of Disbursements, Auditor, Coal Department and Treasury.
JOSEPH EISENZIMMER
The Buffalo Machine Shop boys deeply regret the sad demise of Machinist Joseph Eisenzimmer, who, on the night of Feb. 16th (1912), was taken suddenly ill, while working in the roundhouse on an emergency engine repair, and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance, and died on Feb. 18th, the cause given being ulceration of the stomach. (P. 38)
JOHN FAY
In the recent death of John Fay the Erie Railroad has lost its oldest employe at the East end of the line, and one of the oldest on the entire line.
Mr. Fay had been employed as Foreman on the various piers at Jersey City and Weehawken for over fifty years. About two years ago he suffered a stroke of paralysis, from which he never recovered, and this incapacitated him from work.
At the time of his death he was 70 years old, and among the best known residents of Jersey City's famous "Horse shoe" district, where he had lived ever since coming to this country from Ireland 52 years ago.
He was a member of the Catholic Benevolent League and the Holy Name Society of St. Michael's Church, and is survived by his widow, a son and five daughters.
MARTIN FORTUNE
We very much regret to report the death of one of our oldest employees, Mr. Martin Fortune, who passed away on the eleventh day of December, 1912. Mr. Fortune was very highly respected by all who have known him. His fellow workers came to the support of his widow very handsomely.
GEORGE FAIL GEAGAN.
On March 24th (1912), George Fail Geagan, former Live Stock Agent of the Eric Railroad, died at his home in Passaic, N.J., of paralysis and a dropsical affection, at the age of 66.
Mr. Geagan was born at the corner of Broadway and Thirty-fifth Street, New York City. At the age of 16, he became a sailor on the Great Lakes, and one year later was made mate.
In 1870, he was married to Miss Margaret Stokes, of Chicago, and in that year took charge of the Erie Stock Yards at Deposit, N.Y., where he remained until 1875, when the Company placed him in charge of the Stock Yards at Buffalo. In 1884, he was made Live Stock Agent of the Chicago & Atlantic, and, in 1888, became Live Stock Agent of the Erie, with office in the old Erie Building, corner of West and Duane Streets, New York City. This position, and that of Superintendent of the Weehawken, N.J., Stock Yards, he held until his retirement, account of ill-health on December 1st, 1910.
Mr. Geagan was a lover of, and an authority on horse flesh, and was often chosen to act as Judge at harness races in the East.
He was a member of the Acquackanonk Club, the Masonic Fraternity, Elks, and the Erie Railroad Relief Association. Mr. Geagan's warm personality won him a wide circle of friends that he retained until his death. He leaves a widow, two daughters, Mrs. Alfred Jelleme, and Miss Isabella A. Geagan, and one son, George B. Geagan.
Funeral services were held at the late home of deceased, 321 Aycrigg Avenue, Passaic, on Wednesday, March 27th. Interment took place at Buffalo, N.Y.
GEORGE HALE
Brakeman George Hale, who resided at Littleville, near Avon, NY, died very suddenly at his home on February 1st (1912). He had been in the employ of the company for the past twelve years. He is survived by his widow, three children, his mother, two sisters and one brother, fireman F.C. Hale, who have the sympathy of the entire community. (P. 40)
THOMAS HAPPER.
Another of the dear old boys of the Mahoning Division, has gone to his long reward. A feeling of general sorrow prevails along the Division, on account of the death of Thomas Happer, a popular passenger conductor and good fellow, who died April 19th (1912), as the result of an operation performed in the hope of saving his life, about a month ago.
Mr. Happer entered the employ of the old A&GW R.R. in 1860, as water boy in a section gang. In 1867 he became a brakeman on the Hubbard Branch. In 1870 he was promoted to conductor, and ran freight on the Niles & Lisbon Branch. In 1872, he was transferred to the Mahoning Division, and ran through freight. In the Fall of 1880 he was promoted to extra passenger conductor, and in the Spring of 1882 to a regular passenger run, remaining in that service ever since. His last run was made on January 11th, last.
Mr. Happer was a Scotchman, and came to this country when a small boy.
He was a Mason and a member of Forest City Lodge No. 388, and of Cleveland Chapter R.A.M., No. 148, Hollyrood Commandery, K.T.;
Al Koran Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine; Cleveland Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star; Palestine Shrine of the White Shrine of Jerusalem, and the Order Railway Conductors.
JAMES HARVEY
A feeling of sorrow pervades this division on account of the death of Engineer James W. Harvey, whose home was at Girard (OH). Engineer Harvey's death occurred at Girard on Sunday, September 29th (1912), and came unexpectedly, the cause being a severe attack of diphtheria, from which, after a siege of ten days, it was believed he was recovering, as he was able to sit up the day preceding death. Mr. Harvey was born in Lonaconing, Maryland, in 1876, and came to Girard two years later with his parents. He had been in the Erie's employ 11 years, and was a young man, having a faculty for making friends, of which he had many. He was a Brotherhood man and member of the Knights of Pythias. He leaves a widow and little son. (Pp. 554-555)
OSCAR HARVEY
Another A&GW veteran, Mr. Oscar Harvey, died March 19th (1912). His death was due to the infirmities of old age, he having reached the age of 80 years, practically all of them active in affairs. Mr. Harvey is survived by his widow and two sons, Jason and William, both employed in Kent Paint Shop. He was employed as Baggage Master for the A&GW (now the Erie) in 1860, and was employed in various capacities until 1888, a period of 28 years, when he left the Erie to enter the W.& L.E. R.R., being in continuous service with that Company 21 years. His combined service with the Erie and the W.& L.E. covered a period of almost 50 years. Oscar Harvey will always be remembered as a kind husband and father, a good railroad man, and a loyal citizen. His death is mourned by many railroad friends. (P. 108)
GEORGE HOWARD HINTON
George Howard Hinton, 79 years old, died November 15 (1912) from apoplexy at his home, No. 73 Pennington avenue, Passaic, N.J. He was a Civil War veteran, and retired from business twenty-five years ago. He was an assistant to Colonel James when the latter was postmaster of New York City, and afterward was in the Treasury Department of the Erie Railroad Company. One daughter and one son survive him. (P. 611)
JOHN MARTIN HOFFMAN
It is with profound regret that we announce the death of John Martin Hoffman, passenger trainmaster, New York Division and Branches, at his home No. 124 Van Houten Avenue, Passaic Park, N.J., on Friday, April 19, 1912.
Mr. Hoffman was born in Springtown, N.J., October 30, 1863. Leaving school after an ordinary education, he entered the employ of the Lehigh Valley Railroad as fireman, and in January, 1884, commenced his career with the Erie as a brakeman, and in the same year was promoted to flagman. In June, 1885, he was promoted to conductor on the Greenwood Lake Division, which position he held until January, 1900, when he became assistant depot master, at Jersey City station; in 1902 was made depot master, and in 1903 freight train master at Port Jervis, N.Y., which position he held but a short time, when he was made passenger trainmaster, N.Y. Division and Branches. This position he occupied at the time of his death.
As year by year he advanced in his chosen career as a railroad man, faster yet did he advance in the hearts of his fellow-men, and especially those with whom he came in daily contact. "A man among men" he was always "fair and square' to all, none recognizing this fact more than those who were directly under him, and the expressions of good will and esteem heard on all sides, show him to have been a man loved by all, whose place in the hearts of his fellow-men will, indeed, be hard to fill.
From the beginning of Mr. Hoffman's illness, evidence of the esteem of his fellow men was evinced, by the numerous gifts of fruit and other delicacies, sent him by his many friends, and B.R.R.T. No. 209, George Eisenberger, president, and when it became known that his illness was of a very serious nature, a specialist was sent from New York by Pavonia Lodge, No. 400, W.H. Smith, chief conductor. The uppermost thought of all, was to make his last hours as peaceful as possible, though, with all the tender care that could possibly be given him, it was not to be.
The funeral, one of the largest ever held in Passaic, took place on Sunday, April 21, and was attended by many men of prominence in railroad circles. Among the officers and men of the Erie that attended, were D.W. Cooke, general traffic manager; R.S. Parsons, division superintendent; W.J. English, assistant division superintendent; G.W. Gould, superintendent employment bureau; M. Nolan, train master. Port Jervis; H.W. Howley, J. Robert, C.W. Jones, A.R. Gramlich. W. Gramlich, C. Joyce, J.F. Shinn, T.C. Clifford, superintendent, dining car department; M.C. Roach, superintendent Lehigh Valley Railroad.
The floral gifts were numerous and handsome. Special mention is made of those from the engine department, conductors of Jersey City and Port Jervis Lodge's, trainmen, N.Y. Division and Greenwood Lake Division;
Jersey City station and yard force; superintendent's office, despatcher's office, staff members, general passenger agents office, Superintendent R.S. Parsons, and General Traffic Manager D.W. Cooke.
Services at the house were conducted by the Rev. R.J. Goddard of the Congregational Church of Passiac. The interment took place at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Paterson, N.J., services being conducted by Ex-Chief Conductor, C.L. Boughner of Pavonia, No. 490, and Neversink, No. 52, 0.R.C. The honorary pall bearers were:
T. O'Donnell, train master; F.W. Swan, station master; T.M. DeVere, assistant station master; W.0. Rock, division passenger agent; H.R. Cole, chief despatcher; E. Salley, road foreman of engines. The pall bearers were: M.F. Conway, J.H. Gordon, W.H. Smith, T. Burns, W.E. Sigler and T. Welch, conductors.
The seating of the vast number of people in attendance at the funeral, was in charge of ushers Harry J. Breen and George Lafrican.
At the regular meeting of the New York Division staff of the Erie Railroad Company, held at Jersey City, Monday, April 22, 1912, the following resolution was ordered drawn up and entered in full upon the minutes:
John Martin Hoffman, had been an employe of the New York Division since 1884, and trainmaster and passenger trainmaster since 1902. The undersigned who had been closely associated with him, desire to testify their appreciation of his many excellent personal qualities. He was always bright and cheerful in his intercourse with his business- associates, and his genial disposition never failed to result in a firm friendship with those who had the good fortune to meet him frequently in a business capacity. His long term of service on the Division, amply equipped him for the work which he so ably performed, and, it is with sincere regret that we record his untimely departure from our midst.
His judgment, in connection with the handling of the business of the New York Division, was excellent and freely expressed at meetings of this staff, to consider the difficult problems continually arising.
Whatever measure of success has attended the operation of the constantly increasing passenger business, can be attributed, in no small measure, to his untiring and zealous efforts in behalf of the Company, by which he was employed.
It is ordered that a copy of this minute be engrossed and forwarded to Mrs. Hoffman.
EDWARD HONAN
Edward Honan, formerly weigher and checker at 28th Street Station, died on July 27th (1912), after having faithfully served the Erie since 1866. Mr. Honan was born in 1842 and began with the Erie as laborer at Pier 8, East River, New York in June, 1866. In Sept., 1869 he was transferred to Jersey City local station and from that point to 28th Street Station in February, 1870, which position he held until about two months prior to his death. Mr. Honan rendered valuable service to the Erie and was a popular man among his co-employees. It was with the deepest regret that the news of his death was received. (P. 424)
EARLE HORNE
Earl Horne, machinist in the tool room, died after a long illness. He was a graduate of the Erie and well liked; a widow survives him. (P. 170)
JACOB M. JOHNSON
Jacob M. Johnson, formerly conductor on the New York Division, and later on the NYS&W Division, died recently at his home, Middletown, NY, of diabetes after an illness of several years.
Mr. Johnson began his Erie service at the age of 16, as brakeman, running between Corning and Buffalo at a 90 cents per day rate of pay. Later he became baggageman, then conductor, running between Corning and Rochester, and between Elmira and Buffalo.
In 1868 he was transferred to the New York Division, and ran between Jersey City and Port Jervis. When the New York and Oswego Midland road opened in 1872, he was appointed conductor of the milk and mail train. He ran the first freight train over that road, now the NYS&W Division of the Erie.
In 1888 he was elected Sheriff of Orange County on the Republican ticket. He was prominent in Republican politics, and was a member of Millard Division, ORC. After being elected Sheriff he quit railroad life and never returned. (P. 158)
J. KATERAT
J. Katerat, Flue and Grate Cleaner, was instantly killed April 23 (1912) at Croxton roundhouse while performing his duties. Mr. Katerat was 22 years of age and resided at 52 Van Winkle Avenue, Jersey City. (P. 165)
MICHAEL KEEFE
Death has again called a veteran employe of the Erie. Michael Keefe, machinist, long an employe here (Meadville Shop), died at his home here after a long illness. He is survived by a widow, four sons and a daughter. His fellow employes contributed a beautiful floral offering. (P. 748-750)
JOSEPH KNIVETON
Mr. Joseph Kniveton, who gave 41 years of his life to the service of the A&GW and Erie Shops, died, on 16th of March (1912), after an illness of five weeks, at the age of 78 years. His death was due to arterial chlorosis. About forty-two years ago, Mr. Kniveton and his two sons, came to Kent. Here the father went to work in the present Erie Shops as a Carpenter and Car Builder. He was greatly devoted to his work, and gave the Company the best service in his power. He gave up actual work, less than one year ago, from that time on his health began to fail. One of his sons, Thomas, has been employed at these Shops as a Machinist for the past 36 years. Joseph Kniveton was a highly respected and good citizen, a trust-worthy and kind shopmate, and an indulgent and devoted father. (P. 108)
GEORGE E. LAPHAM
George E. Lapham, for many years assistant paying teller in the office of the treasurer, was buried from his late home at Leonia, N.J., on Saturday, December 21st (1912). His death was the result of an operation for tumor of the brain, performed at the New York Polyclinic Hospital on December 17th. Mr. Lapham entered the service of the Company in October, 1903, and by his quiet, unassuming manner, and other admirable qualities, had won the esteem and regard of his associates. (Page 673)
JAMES LAUGHLIN
James Laughlin, brakeman on the Randall (OH) ore dock crew, died suddenly at Randall about 11 o'clock on April 2nd (1912). His brother John, agent at Solon, OH, died in the same manner about two years ago, while performing his duties. He was a brother of Frank Laughlin, Freight Agent of Cleveland, OH. (P. 170)
GEORGE MASTERS, JR.
On the 9th, George Masters, Jr., Night Yardmaster at Hammond, IN, and formerly a clerk in this office (Chicago), died very suddenly of heart failure. (P. 487)
PATRICK MOFFAT
Patrick Moffat, for many years an employe in the Meadville Locomotive Dept., retiring five years ago, dided at his home, aged 77 years. Mr. Moffat was respected by all who knew him as a good man and a devout Christian, who had a kind word for everyone. He is survived by two sons, Michael and Patrick, engineers, and three daughters, grand and great grand children. (P. 750)
MELVIN D. MYRES
Melvin D. Myres, a former employee of the Erie, left the service about August, 1900, after working for the Erie about nine years, being an Erie graduate. Mr. Myres was employed by the Rock Island Railroad at Moline, Ill., until taken sick about a year ago with paralysis of the brain, which caused his death Sunday, May 19, 1912 at Moline. He was buried at Galion, Ohio. Mr. Myres leaves a widow and three children to mourn his loss. Quite a few of his old shopmates attended the funeral. Mrs. Myres and children have the sympathy of their many friends here. (P. 238)
JOHN NOON
John Noon, in length of service one of the oldest employees at the Jersey City Passenger Terminal, recently passed away at his home in Jersey City, following an attack of pneumonia. Mr. Noon was a faithful and industrious employe and the news of his demise was received with regret by his fellow employes. (P. 35)
EMIL PERSBACKER
Emil Persbacker, Foreman at Stockport station for the past 32 years, is dead of paralysis at the age of sixty. He is survived by a widow, four sons, mother, two brothers and two sisters. Mr. Persbacker was a highly respected citizen and a loyal employe of the Erie Railroad. (P. 103)
B.E. PITCHER
The death of B.E. Pitcher, one of the dispatchers in the Rochester (NY) office, occurred in his home in Rochester on Monday night, April 8th (1912), after a lingering illness of several months and intense suffering, with heart trouble and dropsy. Mr. Pitcher was born in Oswego, NY December 22, 1872, and began the study of telegraphy when a young boy, becoming a very proficient operator, having worked for the Erie at Wayland and other stations for many years, until his appointment as dispatcher about two years ago, when he moved with his family to Rochester, NY. He was highly esteemed by his many railroad friends and associates. He is survived by a widow, three daughters and two sons, his mother and one sister, to whom the deepest sympathy is extended in their sad bereavement. The funeral services were held from St. Joseph's Church, Wayland, NY, his former home, with interment in the Catholic Cemetery. (P. 166-167)
H.E. REED
Employees on the Mahoning and Meadville Divisions were very sorry to hear of the death of Conductor H.E. Reed, which occurred at El Paso, TX on December 16th (1912). Mr. Reed left Youngstown Wednesday night, December 11th, accompanied by his wife, enroute to Arizona, where he was going in the hope of bettering his health. He had been in poor health for some time, but when he departed nothing serious was looked for in such short a time.
Mr. Reed was born in New Castle, May 17th, 1871, and had been employed at New Castle and Youngstown practically all of his life as brakeman and conductor on the Mahoning Division. Deceased was a member of Tabernacle United Presbyterian Church; also of Western Star Lodge No. 21, F.A.M.; Youngstown Chapter No. 93, St. John's Commandery No. 20, and Al Koran Shrine of Cleveland. He was also a member of the Order of Railway Conductors at the time of his death, being chairman of the Grievance Committee. (P. 685)
ALFRED RICHMIRE
Salamanca, N.Y., has lost another good citizen, in the death of Alfred Richmire, an old shop employe, who had resided there for 43 years. He entered the shops of the Atlantic & Great Western at Randolph, N.Y., and came to Salamanca when the shops were removed to that place in 1869. For 43 years he was foreman of these shops. He was a member of Cattaraugus Lodge, 239, F. & A.M., Salamanca Chapter, 266 R.A.M., and Salamanca Commandery, 62, K.T.
WILLIAM ROSS
William Ross, baggageman on trains 17 and 46, died at his home in Port Jervis, NY on October 11 (1912) of stomach trouble. He was well known in the circles of railroad men, and his death is mourned by all who held his acquaintance.
GEORGE SCOWDEN
George Scowden, a former engine dispatcher at Meadville, PA, died very suddenly of pneumonia. He was one of Nature's noblemen, and his many friends are deeply grieved. (P. 750)
WILLIAM SHARP.
A feeling of deep sorrow pervades the Erie ranks at Bradford, Pa. and the city, as well, on account of the recent death of Erie Conductor William Sharp, who was a general favorite among the boys wherever known.
Conductor Sharp, or "Scotty," as he was affectionately known, met a tragic death. He, in some way unknown, slipped from his train, and, falling beneath the wheels of a moving car, was instantly killed.
Deceased was a member of Lodge 228, B. of R.T., and was both fair and consistent. He had been employed by the company for the past 28 years, most of the time at Bradford.
He leaves a family to mourn his loss. The funeral was a large one, the pall hearers being Frank Maginn, Richard Roche and John Mullins of Bradford, and John Harvey, D.W. Kehoe and H.C. Warner of Salamanca, all members of the B. of R.T.
ADELBERT N. SIMMONS
On Monday morning, Dec. 16th (1912), the Grim Reaper called Adelbert N. Simmons, the Erie R.R. agent at Oil City, Pa. Mr. Simmons had experienced trouble with his heart about a week previous, but had apparently recov�ered. The night before his death he expressed himself as having never felt better, retiring about nine o'clock.
He arose next morning, and evidently was seized with a fit of fainting, as friends in an adjoining room heard him fall to the floor and hastened to his relief, summoning medical atten�tion, but all to no avail, as he passed away without regaining consciousness.
Mr. Simmons was born in Sinclairville, N.Y., in 1860, entering the serv�ice of the Erie R.R. at Corry at the age of twenty-two. He was later transferred to the superintendent's office at Meadville, Pa. Four years later he came to Oil City as chief clerk and cashier for D.W. Gurnsey, then agent at that point. Eight years ago, when Mr. Gurnsey was appoint�ed commercial agent, Mr. Simmons received the appointment as agent at Oil City, which he filled faithfully and well.
He was a man of much energy and foresight and had amassed a consid�erable fortune in the oil business. The only known surviving relatives are two or three cousins.
Fraternally, Mr. Simmons was a member of the following orders: Oil City Lodge of Elks, Knights of Pyth�ias, I.0.0.F., Petrolia Lodge, Ma�sons, Talbot Commandery Knight Templars, all of Oil City, and Zem Zem Temple of Shriners of Erie, Pa. Funeral services were conducted at Oil City Dec. 19th at 10.30 A.M. by Rev. Mitchel of Grace M. E. Church. and the remains taken to Corry for interment.
The following resolutions of respect were passed:
The members of Meadville Division, Erie R.R. Freight Agents' Associa�tion, through the undersigned Com�mittee, do hereby extend to the rela�tives and friends of our late brother, fellow worker and associate, Adalbert N. Simmons, our sincere sympathy in their sorrow and loss occasioned by his death. His long, faithful and valued service to the Erie R.R. Co., his simplicity of manner, fearlessness in the performance of duty, his con�servative council, loyal and faithful adherance to all rules in support of fair and honorable practice pertaining to the duties devolving upon him in his avocation, should leave a lasting impression, and be an example worthy of emulation.
While his genial personality and wise council will be greatly missed from our Association, and his taking away deemed by us untimely, yet we bow in humble submission to the will of Him who doeth all things well and Who in His Wisdom has called Adelbert N. Simmons to his Eternal reward. We request that a copy of the above be placed upon the records of this Association, also copy be sent to relatives of deceased.
(Signed) A.L. Cottrell, President; W.R. Johnson, Secy.; M.C. Flower.
JOHN SPRINGSTEIN
John Springstein died very suddenly Sept. 27th (1912). Mr. Springstein was employed at Susquehanna for a number of years as a patternmaker at this shop, but for the past several years has conducted a store at this point. He was a man held in high esteem, and the sympathy of all is extended to his relatives in their bereavement. Mr. Springstein was a brother of Theo., Jr. and W.A. Springstein, employes of the Erie at this point and an uncle of George Springstein, chief clerk in the storekeeper's office here. (P. 489-490).
JOSEPH J. TRACY
On December 12th (1912), Joseph J. Tracy, one of the most favorably known and best liked passenger conductors on the Allegheny Division, died at his home, Hornell, N.Y., of pneumonia, after a brief illness.
He had been in the employ of the Erie Railroad nearly 40 years and at the time of his death was in charge of trains 7 and 8. He is survived by one son, Dr. W.J. Tracy, and three daughters. He entered the Erie service in August, 1873, as brakeman. In September, 1884, he was promoted to freight conductor and in June, 1892, to passenger conductor.
GEORGE UNDERDOWN
George Underdown, a highly esteemed and much valued employe, who has been employed at Avon, NY shop as machinist, for many years, and who, as stated in these columns several months ago, siffered a stroke of paralysis; suffered another stroke on Wednesday, Feb. 21st (1912) amd passed away without regaininig consciousness, at his home in Avon, NY on that date. He is survived by his widow, one son, George, his mother, two sisters and two brothers, of South Lima, NY, to whom sympathy is extended by his many friends and fellow employes. (P. 40)
MRS. WINIFRED COLE UTLEY.
The recent death of Mrs. Winifred Cole Utley, wife of Mr. Charles P. Utley which occurred at Hammondsport, New York, brought sorrow to a large circle of friends and relatives.
During their long term as residents of Hammondsport, where Mr. Utley so acceptably filled the position of General Agent for the Erie Railroad, the family made many warm friends, who extended their sincere sympathy in the hour of sorrow.
Mrs. Utley died of pneumonia, after an illness of one week. The funeral services were held at home of deceased, after which the remains were taken to Elmira, N.Y., and placed in a vault.
Deceased was born at Racine, Wisconsin, October 23rd, 1850. After attending the public schools, she graduated from the Normal School at Whitewater, Wis., and became a successful teacher in the public schools at Madison and Milwaukee, Wis.
She married Charles P. Utley at Milwaukee, February 19th, 1878. and is survived by him and two children, Joseph of McKeesport, Pa., and a daughter, Miss Katherine; also a sister Miss Clemence H. Cole.
Mr. Utley is an old and faithful employe of the Erie Railroad, and has a wide circle of good and true friends, who have expressed their sympathy for him verbally and by letter and telegrams.
JACOB VAN DUSER.
The death of Jacob Van Duser removes another veteran from the ranks of New York Division Conductors. Mr. Van Duser, who died during the latter part of June (1912), had served the Erie well and faithfully, since the seventies, when he entered the freight service. During the early eighties he ran the Way Freight between Jersey City and Port Jervis on alternate days with the late William H. Camp. On Sundays these two ran passenger trains between the same points.
About a year ago Conductor Van Duser was retired on account of old age and failing health, and he retired to private life. For years he ran the Newburgh Express between Jersey City and Newburgh, and was a prime favorite with the patrons that rode to and from Tuxedo. He was also a great favorite among his fellow conductors, being always a fair and square man, with a smiling countenance and kindly nature.
Interment took place at Mountainville, Orange County, N.Y., and was attended by a large delegation of New York Division Conductors, several of whom served as pall bearers.
SAMUEL CURTIS VAN VLIET
After serving the Erie Railroad well and faithfully for more than 51 years, Samuel Curtis Van Vliet, station agent at Oxford, NY on the New York Division, has been called to his long reward.
Mr. Van Vliet died at his home after a week's illness, due to infirmities incident to old age. Deceased, in addition to being the Erie's agent at Oxford, conducted a store in the village. He was a man of literary tastes and was correspondent at Oxford for several newspapers in Orange County, being a breezy and entertaining writer.
Deceased is survived by two married daughters, a grand daughter and two brothers. He was a man of integrity and was held in high esteem by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.
JOHN J. YOUNGSON
John J. Youngson, foreman of water and signal system of the Erie for 45 years, died Nov. 17 (1912). Mr. Youngson was connected with the Erie since the days of the Atlantic & Great Western, until within a year. He entered the service when 15 years of age, and has been with the road ever since. He was prominent in local affairs (Meadville, PA), serving as councilman for several terms. It was through his efforts that Erie's right-of-way through the city is so well lighted, and he was always loyal to the Erie. He is survived by a widow. (P. 617)