Felix E. Gerard (1869-1940)

GERARD, HOLLENBECK, HUMBERT, OTHELLO

Posted By: Carl Malone (email)
Date: 6/19/2017 at 18:42:48

The Adams County Free Press
Corning, Iowa
January 25, 1940

OBITUARY

The entire community was saddened Tuesday morning when word came the F. E. Gerard, prominent and highly respected farmer residing southwest of Corning had passed away at his home the previous evening at 10:45. The news of his passing came as a distinct shock. While it was known to many that his health had not been the best, only a few had known of the recent and sudden illness which resulted in his death. A heart attack was attributed as the immediate cause of the death.

Felix E. Gerard was born on a farm 3 1/2 miles east of Corning July 5, 1869, and passed away January 22, 1940, at the age of 70 years 6 months an 17 days. His parents were Jean B. Gerard of Lyons, France, and Theoderine [Theodorine] Othello, of Geneva, Switzerland. His parents came to America with French groups who formed colonies in this country, although they were not active members of the Icarian colony formerly in existence east of Corning. The Gerards purchased land adjoining the Icarian lands but did not live in the colony. Mr. Gerard was educated in the schools of the county.

December 24, 1891, the deceased was married to Elva Humbert and to this union two children were born. The living child is Harold Gerard of Kirkwood, Mo. A daughter, Vera Gerard Hollenbeck, passed away in 1929. In addition to his companion of so many years, Mr. Gerard is also survived by three brothers. They are Fred Gerard of Fontanelle, Peter Gerard of Nevada, Mo., and Theodore Gerard of Kennebec, South Dakota. Four brothers preceded him in death, they being Arsene, William, Alex and Charles.

Mr. Gerard had lived all his life except three years, in Adams county. The family has lived on the home farm continuously, except for three years spent in Iowa City, for 40 years. Mr. Gerard was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He was a good husband, kindly parent and accommodating neighbor. He will be sadly missed in the community where he has spent so many years.

Funeral services will be held this (Thursday) afternoon from the home at 2 o’clock, conducted by Rev. W. H. (?) of the Corning Federated church, where Mr. Gerard has held membership since the Congregational and Presbyterian churches were Federated. He previously held membership in the Presbyterian church. Burial will be made at Prairie Rose Cemetery.