In the decease of John W. Wirtel, which occurred at Davenport, March 14, 1892, the city sustained the loss of a most estimable citizen. He was a self-made man, and by honest industry, perseverance, economy and determination, overcame many difficulties and established a thriving business, which still prospers under the careful management of his daughter and only surviving child.
He was a native of Prague, Hungary, and was born April 14, 1833. When he was twelve years old, in 1815, his parents immigrated to the United States and settled in St. Louis, Missouri. Their moderate means were not sufficient to give the son many advantages, but he received a fair education and made good use of such opportunities for learning as he had. He was early trained to habits of industry and economy and learned the worth of a dollar, and before he grew to manhood had accumulated a snug little sum. At the opening of the War of the Rebellion he enlisted as a private in a Missouriinfantry company, served throughout the war and was honorably discharged at its close in 1865. After returning from the army he moved his family and effects to Davenport and engaged in the manufacture of trunks, establishing a factory and business which prospered and grew under his skillful management.
While living in St. Louis Mr. Wirtel married Miss Elizabeth Voita, then of that city, but a native of Prague, Hungary. Of six children born to them only two lived to maturity. Of those, John, the only son, who was associated with him in his business, died in August, 1891, and his death so affected his father that he never rallied from its effect. Grief-stricken, heart-broken and despondent, he never again went to his place of business, and after a lingering illness passed away, mourned by a wide circle of friends.
He left a widow, who still survives, and an only daughter, Miss Josie Wirtel, who assumed the management of the large business her father left and has continued to carry it on with great success, retaining the confidence and good will of the public, so richly merited by her deceased father.
BIOGRAPHIES