BRUCE SMALLEY
Bruce Smalley, son of Elmer Smalley of this place, passed away on Friday, March 14, at Camp Dewey, Great Lakes. Two telegrams, one telling of the lad's illness and the other one bearing the news of his death were received by Mr. Smalley within a few hours of each other. This news came as a great shock to the community, as well as the father and many have been expressions of sympathy since the sad news was received. Mr. Smalley had a letter from his son telling that after a dinner served at the Great Lakes on Washington's Birthday, several were sick from eating canned food, but there was no word to indicate he was in such critical condition. The certificate gave the cause of death as obstruction of the intestines.Bruce Isom Smalley was born Nov, 19, 1902, at Harris, and was 16 years, 3 months and 25 days old, died March 14. His mother preceded him, having died Sept. 25, 1911. His entire school training was received in Harris, except one year in Ocheyedan. The family and relatives remaining are his father-Elmer R. Smalley; sister Yola Smalley; stepmother, Mrs. Dena Smalley, and two step brothers; grandfather, Isom Harris; and uncle, Ralph Harris, is in the Govt.medical service in Europe. Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Navy February 1, 1918, and was stationed at the Great Lakes Training Station. Rev. O.P. Mueller of Harris conducted the funeral services for the Congregational church at Ocheyedan,
"Death comes with reckless footsteps, to the Hall of Hut.
Think you death will tarry-when the door is shut?"
Card of Thanks
To all the friends and neighbors who extended such generous sympathy, and kindness to us in our recent bereavement, we wish to express our thanks.
Elmer Smalley and family
Mrs. Ralph Harris
Isom Harris
From Sibley Gazette March 27, 1919
