- Death Calls John Speltz, Old Resident of Winona County
Came to this section in 1864-Was prominent Oak Ridge Farmer before his retirement-Lived in Winona 20 years.
John Speltz, who helped with the development of Winona county in the early days, died early this morning at the home of his son, Louis, on the farm near Altura at the age of 85 years.
Mr. Speltz had lived at 468 West Fourth street for the past 20 years following his retirement but recently made his home with his son. Emigrating to America in 1864, Mr. Spettz, arrived in Winona county to take his place with other pioneer residents in settling the country.
He was born April 16, 1842 in Luxembourg and before coming to America completed a year and a half of compulsory military training in his native land. Four brothers and four sisters, none of whom are now living, resided near Rollingstone with the exception of one brother who settled in Iowa, and a sister who remained in Luxembourg.
Buys Oak Ridge Farm
Upon his arrival in this country, Mr. Speltz, joined an older brother, Matthew, on a farm a few miles northwest of Rollingstone. In 1868 he purchased a farm on Oak Ridge and later considerably increased his agricultural holdings.
During the same year he was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Rivers of Rollingstone. With her family, Miss Rivers had also emigrated to this country in 1854. Seven children were born, five sons and two daughters, of whom all but one are now living.
They are Matthew Speltz, residing at 320 West Wabasha street, Henry, Altura, Louis and Andrew, living on farms near Altura, Jerome, and Mrs. Andrew Greden, Rollingstone.
Up to the death of his first wife about 23 years ago, Mr. Speltz remained actively engaged on the farm. Several years later he was married to Mrs. Maria Kramer, a former resident of Elba. Soon afterward the couple retired and came to Winona to live. Mrs. Speltz died just seven months ago.
Active in Public Affairs.
Mr. Speltz was for many years active in public affairs and has held various offices in his township. H was also known in earlier years as a prominent leader in his community in musical circles, having for many years directed the "Oak Ridge Male Chorister Club".
Funeral services for Mr. Speltz will be conducted Friday at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's church at Oak Ridge. The Rev. Anthony Hennekes, pastor of the church, will read the last rites and burial will be in the church cemetery. The pallbearers will be Francis Greden, Stephen Speltz, George Speltz, Richard Speltz, Alfred Speltz, Eugene Speltz and Sylvester Speltz, all grandsons of the deceased. The Winona Republican-Herald, Wednesday Evening, Sept. 17, 1927
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1842 - 1927 (85 years)
