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Obituaries

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Those names in bold, red lettering were well-known or of importance in Madison County.

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SURNAME W

WADDELL, KATHRYN I./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 27, 1921

Mrs. Kathryn I. Waddell, aged 25 years, died this morning at six o'clock at the family home, 303 Cherry Street, after an illness of two weeks. The deceased is survived by her husband, Raymond Waddell, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Andre and two sisters, Mrs. Harry Golden and Miss Frances Andre. The funeral will be held Thursday morning at nine o'clock from the St. Patrick's Catholic Church. Interment will be in the Greenwood Cemetery.

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WADE, EDWARD P./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 15, 1920         Oldest Native Passes Away at 87 - Active Business Man

Edward P. Wade died Tuesday afternoon at 5 o'clock at his residence, 1014 Henry street, following a general breakdown due to old age. His illness was of but two weeks' duration. He had not been as active as formerly, but was in fairly good health, considering his age. He had been unconscious since the day before his death. He had been able to recognize his older daughter, Mrs. J. L. Oldham, when she arrived, but when Mrs. John Duncan, his second daughter, came, he had lost consciousness. In the passing of Mr. Wade, Alton loses a man who had been the longest interested in Alton of any man in the city. He was born in Alton and lived here all his life. Since boyhood, he had been connected with business institutions in the city, most of the time the banking business. His mind was perfectly preserved, his recollections of events and people of the far distant past were almost as if he was telling of something of yesterday. Illustrative of his state of mind, even up to the last few months of his life, Mr. Wade's brain was able to give out facts of the early history of Alton and her people. It was the custom of newspaper men who desired some information as to an old house built in the early days, or to inquire about some individual about whom it was for the moment necessary to have some facts, to appeal to Mr. Wade. His mind would seldom slip in its accuracy. His period of recollections spanned over 80 of his 87 years of life. Mr. Wade was born in a little brick house recently torn down on Broadway, east of the Levis building at Broadway and Alby. His father, Samuel Wade, was an active and very prominent citizen of the early day Alton, and was one of the founders of the bank that became the present Alton National Bank. It was when a young man out of school, that Mr. Wade took a job clerking in a store and stayed there until an opening was offered in the bank. He stayed with the bank until last January 1, when he refused longer to serve in the capacity of president, insisting that he be succeeded by C. A. Caldwell, the cashier, who for the year 1919 had been acting in the capacity of president without the title, and who for years had been Mr. Wade's chief subordinate. At no time in his work in the bank was he merely a figurehead. He performed the functions of president, and he would, even when he occasionally visited the bank after he retired, assist in attending to customers in rush hours at the bank. Mr. Wade became president of the Alton National Bank in 1895, on the death of C. A. Caldwell, father of the present president. Mr. Wade was for many years a member of the Monticello Seminary board of trustees, and during a long period was chairman of the board of trustees of that institution. He retired a few years ago because he felt his inability to continue at that post. He was deeply interested in Monticello Seminary at all time, and was also an honored guest at the commencements of that institution. He was among its most generous benefactors, and always supported any moves for the improvement of that school. It was in his private life that Mr. Wade perhaps showed the greatest nobility of character and his most admirable qualities. He was a kindly, courteous, generous man. His hand was ever ready to help those who needed help. He was profoundly religious and lived his religion in his every day life. He had affiliated with the Plymouth Brethren for years, but he never gave up his interest in the First Presbyterian Church. For many years he was organist in the First Presbyterian Church, he being a musician of much talent. He was, therefore, a backer of many musical enterprises of merit in the city. Many institutions and individuals had known the liberality of Mr. Wade.

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WAGGONER, HELEN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 4, 1920

After being bedfast for two months, following a stroke of paralysis, Mrs. Helen Waggoner died at 7 o'clock this morning at her home. Mrs. Waggoner was 84 years of age last August. She was a member of a well known and prominent Madison County family, being the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Alec Ferguson. Her maiden name was Helen Ferguson. Her husband died twenty-five years ago. She was a member of the Godfrey Methodist Church, and until illness incapacitated her, she took an active interest in church and civic affairs in her town. She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Kate McNeil of Godfrey, Mrs. Lou Lefter of Granite City, and Mrs. Jesse Hinkle, also by two sons, Bert Waggoner of Edwardsville and Harry Waggoner of Macomb. She also leaves seven grandchildren.

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WAGNER, MINNIE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 11, 1923                    Victim of Explosion at Western Cartridge Co., East Alton, 1923

The body of Miss Minnie Wagner, 615 East Broadway, will be taken to her home in the central part of Missouri for burial, probably tomorrow or the next day. Miss Wagner, who was 16 years old, beside her mother and father, leaves five brothers and one sister.

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WAGNER, N./Source: Alton Telegraph, May 11, 1893

Moro -- Mr. N. Wagner died last Saturday after a brief illness at the advanced age of 75 years. In accordance with his request, his remains were taken to the crematory in St. Louis where they were cremated. Besides an aged wife, he leaves numerous other relatives to mourn his loss. This is the first incident of this kind in this community and excited not a little curiosity. The pallbearers were: Messrs. Craig and Butler of Gillespie, Eph Green, William Evans, William Owens and William Richardson.

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WALD, JOSEPH/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, October 19, 1922

After five years of his life being spent in darkness, and an invalid for a long time, Joseph Wald, for 45 years an employee of the Illinois Glass Co., died this morning at 1:30 o'clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E. Ross McPherson, 1127 Central avenue. The death of Mr. Wald had been expected for a year. He had been a sufferer from a droppical condition and he had been bedfast practically all of the time. Five years ago, while he was working for the Illinois Glass Company, he was suddenly stricken with blindness. The cause of the loss of sight was never completely established. He had been a faithful worker for his employers. For many years he was a glassblower and after glassblowers were dispensed with, Mr. Wald had another position at the glass works until he lost his sight and was unable to work any longer. He was born in Lancaster, Ohio and came here when a boy. He was 67 years of age. He leaves his wife, Mrs. Louise Wald, and two children, John Wald and Mrs. E. Ross McPherson. He leaves also two brothers, John and Andrew of St. Louis, and one sister, Mrs. Henry Kentnor of Chicago. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the home of Mrs. McPherson, and services will be conducted by Rev. Mr. Niebrugge, pastor of the Twelfth street Presbyterian church. Burial will be in City cemetery.

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WALKER, RUSSEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 21, 1919

Russel, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Walker, died last night at the home near Fosterburg after a short illness with pneumonia. The funeral will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Salem Baptist Church.

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WALLACE, GEORGE McKINLEY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, August 26, 1920

George McKinley Wallace, the six months' old son of Casper Wallace, died this morning at the home, 311 Shields street. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Mrs. Casper Wallace, the mother of the child, died above five months ago.

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WALLACE, HELEN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 10, 1920

Mrs. Helen Wallace, aged 33, died yesterday afternoon at the home on Mayfield avenue. She is survived by her husband, and two children, one of the children was only two days old. The funeral arrangements have not been made.

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WALLAR, WILLIAM/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 19, 1921

William Wallar, aged 45 years, died Friday afternoon at 4:45 o'clock at the family home at 1615 Piasa street after a short illness. The deceased is survived by his widow and one son, William Wallar. The funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at two o'clock.

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WALSH, ANNA (nee MURPHY)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 1 1920

Mrs. Anna Murphy Walsh, widow of James Walsh, died at her home in Godfrey township Monday morning, a few minutes after midnight, on All Saints Day. Her husband, John Walsh, died six months ago on Ascension day. Mrs. Walsh would have been 80 years of age next Friday. The death of Mrs. Walsh followed a period of eighteen months of complete paralysis. She was in such condition that it was impossible for her family to be sure that she understood that her husband had died. They could not know whether she suffered at any time. There was no sign of recognition from her given to any of the efforts of the family to give her any information. Mrs. Walsh had lived in Godfrey township since she was a small child. She was born of Irish parents in Berkshire, England, and they emigrated to America when she was very young. They settled in Godfrey township and there she passed all the remainder of her life. She had resided forty-five years in the house where she died and she had a wide acquaintance in Godfrey township, especially among the older folks. A year after she was stricken with paralysis, her husband, who had been constant in his devoted attention to her, died very suddenly. When news of the death of the husband went out many believed it was an error, that it must be the wife who had died, because of her condition. She leaves three children, John and William and Miss Anna Walsh. The funeral will be Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock from SS. Peter and Paul's Cathedral, and burial will be in Greenwood cemetery.

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WALSH, JOSEPHINE YOKUM/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 2, 1922

Mrs. Josephine Yokum Walsh, wife of Richard Walsh, died this morning at 5:30 o'clock following an illness which began last September. Her condition gradually became worse and for months Mrs. Walsh has been unable to leave her home. Heart trouble was the cause of her protracted illness. She died at the family home, 344 Bluff street. Mrs. Walsh was one of the city's best known residents. She was 50 years of age last January 18. She was born and reared in Alton, living her entire life on Bluff street, dying in a home next to the one in which she was born. She was educated in the Alton public schools and graduated as valedictorian of her class. She took a great interest in lodge work and was especially active in patriotic organizations. She was a member of the Daughters of Veterans, Woman's Relief Corps and the Maccabees. She was a member of the First Baptist Church. She leaves her husband, her mother, Mrs. Maggie Yokum, one brother and three sisters. Her mother and family are residing in Stockton, Calif. The funeral will be held at 2:30 o'clock on Saturday.

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WALSH, MICHAEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 20, 1919

Michael Walsh, aged 93 years, died Sunday morning at an early hour at the home of his daughter, Mrs. George Long, of 1705 Alby street, after a short illness with pneumonia. The funeral of Mr. Walsh will be held at 9 o'clock Tuesday morning from the Cathedral, and interment will be in Greenwood cemetery. The passing of Mr. Walsh marked the loss of another well known Altonian, who will be greatly missed by relatives and friends throughout the city. coming to Alton at an early age the deceased settled in the vicinity of Seventeenth and Alby street, where he has since resided. For years he was employed by the Chicago & Alton Railroad, and when age prevented him from continuing his employment, he opened a small grocery store on Seventeenth street, where he prospered. He is survived by one son, David Walsh, of Alhambra, Cal., and by one daughter, Mrs. George Long. He also leaves six grandchildren, George Jr., Miss Helen, David, Earl, Eugene and Frank Long. Two of the grandsons, David and Earl, are in France, and it was the wish of the grandfather that he might live to welcome them home, but this was denied him. Walsh was born in County Cork, Ireland, on July 16, 1826, and came to Alton in 1864. Since that time he resided here, and throughout that time was a member of the Cathedral congregation. The family requests that friends omit flowers.

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WALTER, ELIZABETH (nee JOHNSON)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 10, 1921

Mrs. Elizabeth Walter, widow of George M. Walter, died at St. Joseph's Hospital at 6:30 a.m. today. She was 66 years old. Though ill for some time, it was only a few weeks ago that Mrs. Walter's condition became serious. Ten days ago she was taken to St. Joseph's Hospital, when her condition became worse. She failed to rally, however, and today the end came. Mrs. Walter had been a resident of Alton most of her life. She was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson. Her father was formerly superintendent of the Alton gas works. The death of Mrs. Walter, while not unexpected, was a shock to the many people who knew her, and caused profound sorrow. A woman not attracted by social activities and of no fraternal connections, she was loved and respected for her sterling character and kindly disposition. She was known for her love of home and family. Mrs. Walter was born in Manchester, England, on September 13, 1854, and would have been 67 years old next Tuesday. She came to this country with her parents when 18 months old. She was married on May 17, 1876, to George M. Walter, who died several years ago. Mrs. Walter is survived by two sons and two daughters. The sons are Robert and George M. of Alton. The daughters are Mrs. C. L. Goulding of Alton and Mrs. Eva Smith of Winchester. She is survived also by a sister, Miss Martha Johnson, and a brother, Charles Johnson, both of Alton. Funeral services will be at the Cathedral at 9 o'clock Monday, when requiem mass will be celebrated.

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WALTER, GEORGE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 30, 1922

George Walter, aged 70 years, died Saturday evening at 6 o'clock, following an illness of one month, suffering from heart trouble. He died at the family home at Godfrey, where he has spent most of his life. He was unmarried. He is survived by three sisters, Miss Rose Walter of Godfrey, Sister Leocadia of the O'Fallon Convent, and Mother Bernard of Ursaline Novitiate and three brothers, John of Bunker Hill, Henry and Philip of Godfrey. Miss Rose Walter and John made their home with the deceased. The funeral will be held Tuesday morning at ten o'clock from the Cathedral, interment will be in the Greenwood cemetery. The body of Mr. Walter has been taken to the home of his brother, Philip, near Godfrey.

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WALTER, JULIA MONAGHAN/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 23, 1921

Mrs. Julia Monaghan Walter, wife of Louis E. Walter, died this morning at the home of her sister, Mrs. William Deacon, on the Grafton road, where she was taken a few days before her death. Mrs. Walter had been in bad condition for about seven weeks, but since last Tuesday her case had been desperate. She was suffering from a kidney trouble and while she did not give up her hope of recovering, it was known to her family that her condition was grave and that there was a probability that it would terminate fatally. Owing to the continual noise of passing automobiles on Central avenue, and the nervous condition of Mrs. Walter due to her sickness, it became necessary to seek a quieter place and so she was taken to the home of her sister, Mrs. Deacon, had reared Mrs. Walter from childhood, as the older sister, and it was to the home of this sister that she went to spend the last few days of her life. Her death occurred at 3:40 a.m., after her case had taken a sudden change for the worse. Mrs. Walter was born in Alton and spent all of her life here. She was born August 29, 1866, and was married in Alton to Louis E. Walter, May 7, 1890. She leaves beside her husband, two sons, Louis E. Jr., and Eugene. She leaves also two sisters, Mrs. Charles McKenna, of St. Louis, and Mrs. William Deacon, of Alton, and one brother, John Monaghan of Alton. Mrs. Walter was a woman of a quiet, beautiful disposition. She had a wide acquaintance in Alton and leaves a very large number of good friends to mourn her death, and who will join in sympathetic expressions to the afflicted family. She was known as a kind neighbor and one who always was for the ways of peace and harmony. She possessed a kind heart and there are many who will long remember acts of kindness she did for them. Her affection for her family was the dominant trait of her character, and in them most of her interest was centered. The body will be taken from the Deacon home on the Grafton road to the home on Central avenue Sunday evening. The funeral of Mrs. Walter will be held Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock from SS. Peter and Paul's Cathedral. Interment will be in City Cemetery.

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WALTER, LOUISA/Source: Alton Telegraph, May 1, 1913

Mrs. Louisa Walter, widow of Paul Walter, aged 85, died Wednesday morning at her home on West Brown street in Upper Alton, at 10:45 o'clock after a three-weeks illness. Mrs. Walter was a resident of Alton more than sixty years, and in her long period of residence here she had made many friends, most of whom have gone before her, but among the younger people she had acquired a retinue of friends who held her in the highest esteem. Mrs. Walter's husband died eleven years ago in Alton. She was born in West Coplin, Germany, July 13, 1827, and came to America when she was eleven years of age. She married in Alton July 20, 1844, and the remainder of the time she lived in Alton and vicinity, spending some time in Jerseyville. The greater part of her life she lived in Alton and close by. She was the mother of nine children, six of whom survive, Henry of Upper Alton, Mrs. Josephine Malforth and Mrs. Otto Ulrich of St. Louis, Miss Mary of Upper Alton, William of Upper Alton, George of Fosterburg. She leaves sixteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, also two sisters, Mrs. Theo. Lex and Mrs. Caroline Kies, and a brother, Louis Schaaf, all of St. Louis. The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon from the family home. Rev. C. M. McManis of the Presbyterian Church officiating.

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WALTER, MAURICE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 3, 1921        Body of Young Soldier, Killed in Battle on Sept. 26, 1918, Is Returned From France

Funeral services for Maurice Walter, soldier killed in battle in France, will be conducted at the home of his father, G. A. Walter, 103 West Elm Street, at 2:30, Monday afternoon, by the Rev. E. L. Gibson, pastor of the First Presbyterian church. Interment will be in City Cemetery. The American Legion post will take part in the funeral and will furnish a firing squad and the pallbearers. Owing to the distance of the home from the cemetery, the firing squad will meet the cortege at the City cemetery. The body of Maurice Walter arrived in Alton last night. The body of Charles Maguire, another of Alton's heroes, has arrived at Hoboken, but up to this morning, word as to when the body will reach Alton had not been received by the family. Maurice Walter was killed in battle on September 26, 1918. He was killed at the time that Capt. Skinker of St. Louis met his death. The body of Capt. Skinker is now enroute to St. Louis. The St. Louis officer was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal for bravery. Capt. Skinker attacked a German machine gun nest. Capture of the nest meant a strategic triumph, and he asked for volunteers. Two men responded, one of whom was Maurice Walter, then a boy of 20 years. In the performance of this heroic duty, he met his death. As before related, the captain was posthumously honored. News of the heroic way in which the Alton boy went to his death was learned from the family of Captain Skinker, in St. Louis. Maurice was a member of Co. I, of the 138th. Members of his company, who reside in St. Louis, are expected to attend the funeral. The Alton Post of the American Legion will also participate. Charles Maguire was a son of Police Magistrate and Mrs. Patrick Maguire. He died a heroic death in the battle of the Argonne. He met death in the battle in which Edward Kniery, also of Alton, was killed. He will be buried with military honors when the body reaches Alton.

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WALTER, MICHAEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 18, 1922

Michael Walter, 80, died this afternoon at 2506 State street. He had been seriously ill for three weeks. He leaves five sons and a daughter.

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WALTERS, WILLIAM/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 4, 1920

William Walters, 57 years old, died at St. Joseph's hospital in Alton at 8 o'clock Thursday morning, following an attack of rheumatic cold. Mr. Walters had been a carpenter and caretaker at Monticello since 1903, and was highly regarded both by the seminary officials and students, of whom he has seen seventeen classes pass through the institution. He was taken to the hospital the first part of the week when his illness became severe. His death was said to be due to uremic poisoning. He is survived by four children, Joseph, Myrtle and Velma Walters of St. Louis, and Mrs. William Dietz of Alton; two sisters, Mrs. Otto Ulrich and Miss Mary Walters of St. Louis; and two brothers, Henry Walters of Los Angeles and George Walters of Upper Alton. Funeral arrangements have not yet been completed.

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WALTON, CHARLOTTE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 12, 1919

Charlotte Walton, aged 55, died this morning at the family home, 1825 Piasa street. Funeral services will be held from the home at one o'clock on Thursday, and interment will be in Rocky Fork cemetery.

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WANURA, THERESA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 28, 1921

Mrs. Theresa Wanura, aged 80, died yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the family home, 1217 East Seventh street. Mrs. Wanura was a long time resident of Alton and news of her death will be received with much regret. Her husband died a number of years ago. She leaves two daughters, Mrs. Teresa Mueller and Mrs. Benj. Wutzler, both of St. Louis, and three sons, Lee Wanura of Mounds, Ill., Wenzel Wanura of Breeze, Ill., and Lawrence Mickley of Springfield. The funeral will be held Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock, requiem mass to be said at St. Mary's Church. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery. The body is at Klunk's undertaking parlors on East Broadway and can be viewed by friends until time for the funeral.

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WARNER, DANIEL H./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, Thursday, March 30, 1899

Daniel H. Warner died at his home near Fosterburg, March 23, 1899, of nervous prostration, the result of la grippe, aged 85 years, 3 months and 25 days. He was born November 30, 1813 near London, Madison County, O, came to Illinois in 1836, and has since resided on the farm where he settled at that time. He was married to Mary A. Heato, in May 1846, who died November 4, 1881. Of this union there were 52 descendants, of which 8 were their own children and 44 grandchildren. Mr. Warner joined the M. E. church in 1847, was ordained a minister of that denomination by Geo. W. Robbins. Deceased was widely known and highly esteemed. He was a rank Republican and always enthusiastic in political affairs. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Josiah Able, of Alton, at the A. M. E. church at Fosterburg, Sunday. The pall bearers were John Helnes, John Thompson, William Thompson, William McCauley, Moses Thompson and Phillip Neuhous.

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WARNOCK, WILBUR M./Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, December 8, 1911/Submitted by Jane Denny

Death Claims Wilbur M. Warnock After Operation for Appendicitis
Wilbur M. Warnock, one of Edwardsville' foremost citizens passed away at 6:05 last night at the St. Luke's Hospital, in St. Louis, where he had been since Monday evening of last week. With him when the end came were his wife, who had never left his bedside since he was stricken; and his business associates, George D. Burroughs, together with his physician, Dr. S. T. Robinson of Edwardsville. The funeral will be tomorrow, Saturday afternoon, at 2:30 from the residence on Kansas street to Woodlawn cemetery, Rev. J. W. McNeil, pastor of St. John's M.E. church will conduct the service at the home. For Mr. Warnock with all his attainments, was not fifty years old. It seemed very perverse of fate to pronounce the final sentence upon one how had attained to a place where he could fully enjoy life. A high position in his profession, affluence, a handsome home and a loving family were his to appreciate and enjoy, when the cup was suddenly dashed form his lips. Wilbur M. Warnock was born in Columbia, this state, April 23, 1862, a son of Lafayette and Lucinda Moore Warnock. His father was born in Vandalia, March 14, 1824, and his mother is a native of Waterloo, born March 12, 1826. The family originally came from South Carolina, being Revolutionary stock. Mr. Warnock's grandfather, Judge Warnock, was the first territorial judge of Illinois for the southern district holding that office when the state was admitted to the union in 1818. He was postmaster of Vandalia when that city was capital. Wilbur M. Warnock was one of a family of eight. He attended the district schools and then the High School at Columbia. In 1878 he entered the academy at Butler, Mo., where he studied until the spring of 1880. Then he came to Edwardsville, and studied law for a year in the office of Judge B.R. Burroughs. Entering the Union College of Law at Chicago, he graduated in June 1883. He formed a partnership at once with Judge Burroughs, but as he was not yet of age his name was not incorporated in the firm style until the following years. This partnership continued until February 1889, when the judge was elected to the Circuit bench.  Mr. Warnock practiced alone until 1889 when he formed a partnership with R. P. Owen, which continued two years. On the first of August 1891, the firm of Travous & Warnock was formed, the late C.N. Travous being the senior member. Later George D. Burroughs was admitted to the membership, then Thomas Williamson, and recently Mallory L. Burroughs. The firm title at present is Warnock, Williamson & Burroughs. Mr. Warnock was a master in chancery of Madison county for a number of years.  He was a very bright lawyer, quick to grasp all the details of a case, and fertile in resource. In the later years of his law work he engaged most extensively in corporation practice, handling the legal business of many railroads and corporations. During the past year much of his time was spent in studying western investments. He was a brilliant speaker equally good before judge or jury, or on the public. In the affairs of his home town he always took a deep and sincere interest, being in the fore-front of any movement that was calculated for the general betterment. He was a democrat and manifested always a keep interest in party success. This did not prevent him from viewing men and matters impartially where local conditions were concerned. He could estimate men readily and became a splendid judge of human nature. He was social in nature and an aristocrat in this breeding and … but not distant in manner. He had a kindly word for every one at all times. He was one of the "big men" of his community and will be sadly missed. He is survived by his aged mother, his wife, Maud Burroughs Warnock, who is a daughter of judge and Mrs. B. R. Burroughs, and one son, Donald Burroughs Warnock.

Edwardsville Intelligencer, 9 January 1912:
Members of the Madison County Bar Association yesterday afternoon united in a memorial for the late Wilbur M. Warnock, of Edwardsville. Mrs. Warnock's death was so sudden and unexpected that the blow stunned his friends and associates. Now at a distance of one month, for it is just a month ago today that his funeral was held, they can think the clearer of the estimable traits and the splendid attainments that were lost to mortal life when he was called away. It was a notable meeting. Citizens of many walks of life gathered in addition to the barristers, to listen to the eloquent tributes that were paid to his memory, tributes that came from those who knew him best, who had associated with him for years. The sentiments that were expressed were such as to ennoble and elevate the auditors, they were inspirational, they were perhaps the finest monument that could be builded [sic] by mortals. To those who were allied to him as kindred or as associates there must have been comfort for their sorrow in the knowledge that the subject of these eulogies deserved this meed [a fitting recompense] of acclaim.
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WARREN, MITTIE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 11, 1923         Victim of Explosion at Western Cartridge Co., East Alton, 1923

Mrs. Mittie Warren, wife of James Warren of Runyan street, Alton, had gone to work only the day before she was killed. She was very happy about going to work. She wanted to provide some extra comforts for her family and to help her husband. She leaves ten children. They are Mrs. Kate Browning, Mrs. Lily Overath, Obert Warren, Mrs. Alice Holmes, Mabel, Edith, Pearl, Aileen, James and Frederick Warren.

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WASHBURN, WILLIAM/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, January 28, 1922             Victim in Line of Rifle Fire

William Washburn died at St. Joseph's Hospital this morning at 5 o'clock following a surgical operation to recover the bullet which had inflicted a wound in his head as the result of an accident at Monticello Seminary yesterday forenoon. The surgeons found that the bullet had passed through the head from the back to the front and had lodged inside the skull behind the right eye....The funeral will be held Sunday at one o'clock at the home in Godfrey, and will be private. Interment will be in the Godfrey cemetery and will be open to friends. The private services at the home was made necessary through the illness of the boy's mother, who is suffering with pneumonia.

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WASMAN, KATHERINE (nee MAGUIRE)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 15, 1919

Mrs. Katherine Wasman, widow of William Wasman, died Friday afternoon at 5:45 o'clock at her home at Wanda, after an illness of about six years. She was 72 years of age. She had been suffering from a complication of diseases. Her husband, a prominent farmer in the Wanda neighborhood, and a resident of Alton for three years up to about eight years ago, died six years ago. Mrs. Wasman is survived by the following children: Henry of Weatherford, Okla.; Fred of Bloomington, Ill.; Frank of Wanda; Mrs. A. L. Dolbow of Alton; Mrs. Hugh Poag of Wanda, and Miss Ida Wasman of Wanda. She was born in Madison county October 27, 1846, and all of her life she spent in Madison County. Her maiden name was Maguire. The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the family home at Wanda.

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WATERS, JESSIE (nee ELLIOTT)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 23, 1920

Mrs. Jessie Elliott Waters, wife of Dr. P. S. Waters, died at the Alton State Hospital this morning at 6 o'clock. Dr. Waters is one of the Managing Officers of the Alton State Hospital and holds the position of Assistant Superintendent. Both Dr. Waters and his wife are members of pioneer families in Southern Illinois. The Waters family came to the Alton institution about 18 months ago, after residing in Anna for 6 years. Since coming to Alton the family has made many friends who will be interested in the death of the wife and mother. Evelyn Waters, a 13 year old daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Waters, graduated from the Horace Mann school this year. Mrs. Waters is survived by her husband and one daughter. Mrs. Waters has been ill for two years and though every attention was given her, it was known for many months that she could not live. She made friends among the people at the hospital, being very patient during her long illness. She was 37 years of age. The body will be shipped out of Alton at 5:40 Tuesday morning and will be sent to Metropolis, Ill. for burial. Two children of Dr. Waters are buried in Metropolis, so it was thought best to take the body of the mother there for burial.

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WATSON, CHARLES/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 29, 1920

Charles Watson died at the family home, Belle and Hamilton streets, Saturday night, after an illness of several weeks. He is survived by his wife, Catherine, and several children. For some time Watson has been proprietor of a grocery store, conducted near the home. The funeral was held this afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the home. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery. The children are Leo, Rose, Catherine and Elizabeth. He also leaves his father, Dr. Samuel Watson, three brothers, James of Atlanta, Ill., Harry and William of Alton, and three sisters, Miss Gertrude Watson, Mrs. Joseph Deane, and Mrs. L. Gillham, the last named of Dow.

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WATSON, EMMA J. (nee HOWELL)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 18, 1919

Mrs. Emma J. Watson, wife of Dr. S. M. Watson, died this morning at 1:30 o'clock at the family home, 271 Madison avenue, after a lingering illness. Mrs. Watson had been bedfast for ten weeks, but the members of her family and friends report that no complaint was uttered during the whole period regarding her physical trouble. Mrs. Watson was 74 years old on February 18th last, and was born at Godfrey. Her maiden name was Emma J. Howell. She was married to S. M. Watson on October 13, 1869. Besides her husband, Mrs. Watson is survived by three daughters, and four sons. They are: Miss Gertrude Watson and Mrs. Joseph Dean of Alton; Mrs. Luther Gillham of Dow; Charles, William and Harry, all of Alton; and James Watson of Atlanta, Ill. Eleven grandchildren also survive. Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the family home. Rev. M. W. Twing, pastor of the First Baptist Church, will officiate. The burial will be in the Godfrey cemetery. Mrs. Watson was known to a large circle of friends for her splendid traits of character. Her large family was the center of her affections and care, and she reared them to mature manhood and womanhood to respect the traits of character which she possessed.

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WATTS, RACHEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 12, 1922

Mrs. Rachel Watts, a well known and long time resident of Alton, died yesterday morning following a stroke of paralysis which disabled her three weeks ago. Mrs. Watts was in a serious condition from the first, but she was manifesting such strong vitality that there was hope that she would recover from the paralysis. Thursday of last week complications set in and death resulted Sunday morning. Mrs. Watts was 77 years of age. Until she was paralyzed, she was strong and active and was deeply devoted to her church and to the cause of the W. C. T. U., in both of which she was a valuable member. Until the very last she kept up her interest in these two organizations and her family. She was known for her self-denying liberality, and contributed to all causes she deemed worthy. For many years she had been connected with the First Baptist church. Owing to the absence of her pastor, the funeral services Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Edgar Hollister, will be conducted by Rev. Edward L. Gibson of the First Presbyterian church. Mrs. Watts is survived by four daughters, Mrs. C. F. Steizel and Mrs. Edgar Hollister of Alton, Mrs. S. W. Ingalls of Jacksonville, and Mrs. J. A. Atkinson of Chicago. She leaves also one son, John Watts of Alton. Her husband died many years ago.

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WEBB, DANIEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 16, 1921

Daniel Webb, aged 62, an invalid for three years, died Saturday evening, leaving his family in a destitute condition. Members of the family said that they had no food in the house on Saturday, and they had been getting along at times on a meager allowance. The Red Cross had been paying the rent on the house and had been furnishing them with some food. The mother had been doing some work to earn money. Saturday, when the mother was occupied in taking care of her husband in his dying house, there was nothing to eat in the house. When this information was learned by outsiders, a supply of food was immediately provided for them to relieve their emergency needs and later other substantial aid was provided for them. One son of the dead man is in the army; another is married and has three children and a daughter is married. The other children are young, with the exception of a 16 year old boy who is described as being small for his age and finds it difficult to get a job to help support the family. The family live on McClure avenue in Yager Park. Their wants are now being looked after.

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WEBB, ETNA PEARL MANLEY/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 1, 1921

Word has been received in Wood River of the death at Munice, Ind., of Mrs. Etna Pearl Manley Webb, wife of Harry Webb, following an illness which extended over a period of a year. Mrs. Webb was taken ill with the grippe, and her sickness terminated into tuberculosis. Every attention was given her but her condition gradually became worse. Mrs. Webb is survived by her husband, Harry Webb, one brother and three small children; Howard, aged 5; Adele, aged 3; and Carl, aged 2. Her husband is the eldest son of Rev. and Mrs. C. W. Webb of Wood River. Mrs. Webb died at the home of her foster parents in Munice. Her parents died when she was very small. The Webb family resided for a long time on Penning avenue in Wood River, and the young wife and mother made many friends who will regret to learn of her death. Mrs. Webb was 26 years of age. The funeral will be held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at Streator, Ill.  Rev. and Mrs. Webb will attend the funeral.

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WEBB, GEORGE/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, February 10, 1919              Boy, 15, Shot By Companion

George Webb, 15 years old, was shot and killed by Gerald Monroe, about the same age, yesterday afternoon on a sand bar in back of the plant of the Illinois Glass company, opposite Skinny Island. Five boys - - Webb, Monroe, Ernest Little, Sam Reeder and Russell Bawlings - - went to the river to hunt ducks, there being a 38 caliber revolver and a shot gun in the party. Monroe wielded the revolver so carelessly, according to the story told of the shooting, that the others became frightened. Monroe and Webb went into a duck blind, Monroe carrying the revolver. The other three boys shortly afterward heard the shot, and saw Webb  staggering from the blind. An effort was made to carry him somewhere where assistance could be had, but he died in a short while. According to the information given the deputy coroner, Monroe was sitting with the revolver in his hands. The gun was discharged accidentally, the ball entering Webb's jaw and coming out at the neck. The body was taken over by Deputy Coroner Bauer, who will conduct an inquest. Webb was a son of Donald Webb, 2707 College avenue, and leaves several brothers and sisters.

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WEBB, JAMES/Source: Syracuse, New York Daily Standard, September 25, 1850

Died, at Alton, Ill., on the 20th of August, James Webb, aged 68 years, formerly a resident of Onondaga, and one of the first settlers of that town.

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WEBER, ADAM/Source: Troy Star, October 26, 1894

Adam Weber, a much respected citizen of Troy, died Sunday noon at 12 o'clock, aged 80 years, 10 months and 11 days. He was a resident of this vicinity for a score or more of years and had a host of friends. He leaves to mourn his death a number of close relatives. The funeral took place Tuesday morning from the family residence to the Black Jack Presbyterian church, where the last sad services were conducted. One by one the old settlers are passing away.

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WEBER, PHILIP J./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 30, 1920

Philip J. Weber died at his home, 717 Linden avenue, at 7:45 o'clock this morning after a three weeks illness, in his 60th year. His wife and all of his children were present at the time of his death. He leaves his wife, five sons: Fred, Arthur, Gustave, Oscar and Ernest; and two daughters, Lillian and Estella. He leaves also two sisters, Louisa and Mary, of Edwardsville, and three brothers, Edward, William and Fred Weber. He was a faithful member of the Grace Methodist church from which church the funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

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WEBSTER, SARAH E./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 16, 1922

Mrs. Sarah E. Webster, widow of Ezra Webster, died at 11:40 o'clock this morning at her home, 1323 Washington avenue, after an illness of six days with pneumonia. Few friends knew that the aged woman was seriously ill and were shocked to learn of her death. She was 81 years of age. Mrs. Webster was born in Warren County, New Jersey, and came to Illinois in 1849. In 1880 she came to Alton and has resided here since that time. She was the mother of four children, Miss Rita Webster, a retired school teacher; Park S. Webster, who for many years conducted a grocery store in Upper Alton; Mrs. Clara Kitterington of St. Louis; and Mrs. Genevieve Herdina of this city. Last November Mrs. Webster celebrated her eightieth birthday with a family reunion. At that time, Mrs. Webster and three sisters from distant points were together for the last time. Mrs. Webster was one of Upper Alton's best known residents and was beloved by all who knew her. Until the debility of age confined her to her home, Mrs. Webster was an active worker in the College Avenue Baptist Church. No funeral arrangements had been completed at a late hour this afternoon.

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WEGENER, ALEXANDER/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 1, 1920             Stone Mason Contractor and Alderman Dies

Alexander Wegener, one of Alton's best known citizens, died at his home, 1005 [might be 1006] Pearl street, Tuesday evening at 7:30 o'clock, after an illness of one year. Death was due to weakness of old age. He had been failing in strength ever since the death of his wife, who died eight years ago. The aged man never got over grieving over his lost mate, to whom he had been married forty years at the time of her death. He had married her in Alton. She was Lena Vonnahman. When nineteen years of age he came to Alton from Germany, sixty years ago, and he had lived here continuously since that time. He was a native of Westphalia, Germany, and grew up to young manhood there. Mr. Wegener was one of the best stone contractors in Alton. He was known as a skilled workman, and he built some fine jobs of stone masonry which are pointed to with pride by their owners. He operated a quarry for a long time in connection with his contracting business. One of his monuments is the foundation of St. Mary's church, but there are numerous others in the city that are examples of high class workmanship. He retired from active work about six years ago because of failing health. He was much worse in the last year and his condition had been declining rapidly the last few months. He leaves five daughters, Misses Anniem Mary and Clara Wegener of Alton, Mrs. Joseph Davis of Milwaukee and Miss Sophia Wegener of El Paso, Tex. He leaves also four sons, Alexander, Henry, Frank, all of Alton, and John of Savannah, Ga. Mr. Wegener served as alderman in the city council several terms. His first attempt at political honors returned him a victor by one majority over his competitor. Averring that one was as good as thousand if it was on his side, Mr. Wegener took office. He took an active part in city affairs, and was, in his way, a good alderman. His knowledge of how to do work very valuable to the city. He was once a candidate for mayor, but was defeated. Years ago his right to vote was attacked after he held office for years. The record of his naturalization in Alton was lost, but Mr. Wegener was saved from criminal prosecution by the rare chances of his finding the men who had been his witnesses many years before. They appeared in court and testified that they had served as witnesses for him at his naturalization, and so new papers were issued to him by the then presiding judge. The funeral will be held Friday morning at 9:30 o'clock from St. Patrick's church, and interment will be in St. Joseph's cemetery.

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WEIHE, ANNA/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, September 3, 1921

Mrs. Anna Weihe, wife of William Weihe, died at 2 o'clock this morning at the family home, 625 Liberty street, from a nervous breakdown. She had been a partial invalid for many years and of late had been constantly growing worse. Last Sunday she was obliged to take to her bed and on Wednesday she became unconscious, remaining in that condition to the end. Mrs. Weihe had no children. She leaves beside her husband two sisters, Mrs. Blase, of St. Louis, and Mrs. Louise Bowman of New Minden, Ill.  The body will be taken to New Minden for burial, Monday.

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WELD, ARTHUR D./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, December 6, 1921      Sweet Singer Dies After a Breakdown

Arthur Weld, aged 62, died at the Alton State Hospital last night where he had taken employment some time ago. The death of Weld marks the closing of a life that had great promise, but which in middle life was a great disappointment on account of a breakdown in health. He was born in Boston and received a very good musical education and possessed a fine voice which was the delight of those who knew him or had an opportunity to hear him sing at entertainments. For years Mr. Weld was a vocal soloist and for a long time he was soloist in the Church of the Messiah of St. Louis. Twenty years ago his health broke down and later he came to Alton. Here he was frequently heard at various gatherings and his services were in demand. He took employment in various factories at Alton, as his voice no longer being a sufficient asset, he took to common labor. Not long ago Dr. George A. Zeller gave Mr. Weld a position at the state hospital, and his vocal talents there, or the remnant of them, afforded much pleasure to those who heard him. His health suffered further impairment and the end came last night. His mind was not affected. Weld leaves a brother who resides in Boston and efforts were being made to get into communication with him and get instructions as to what disposition to make of the body. Weld was married but his wife and he had separated.

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WENDLER, ELIZABETH (nee RICHTER)/Source: Troy Call, January 4, 1918

Mrs. Elizabeth Wendler, widow of the late Henry Wendler and one of the old residents of this vicinity, was claimed by death Thursday morning at 11:45 o'clock at her home northeast of this city on the Marine road. Her age was 71 years, 6 months and 28 days. The death of Mrs. Wendler was due to pneumonia with which she was stricken on Thursday of last week. Her condition from the first became grave and she seemed to have a premonition that the end was near. With true motherly love and devotion she summoned all her children last Saturday and told them she felt she was to leave them but was ready to go if the Master so willed. Funeral arrangements have been made for Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock and will be from the residence to St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church. Rev. C. Lange will conduct the burial service and interment will be in the Lutheran cemetery. Deceased, whose maiden name was Richter, was born in St. Louis, Mo., June 6, 1846. Her childhood was spent at Collinsville where after reaching maturity, she taught in the German school. Her marriage to Henry Wendler took place October 29, 1865, and in 1899 they came to Troy and located on the present Wendler farm where they spent the remainder of their lives. To Mr. and Mrs. Wendler were born eleven children, four of whom died in infancy. The survivors are four sons and three daughters who are: Mrs. Charles Fedder of Collinsville, Theodore Wendler of St. Louis, Paul Wendler of Chicago, and Mrs. August Schultze, Mrs. Ben Schultze and Charles and MOritz Wendler of Troy. There are also twenty-seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. August Fedder of Collinsville is a step-daughter and Gotthold Richter, also of Collinsville, is a brother. Mr. and Mrs. Wendler celebrated their golden wedding anniversary three years ago and the husband and father's death occurred June 17, 1916. Mrs. Wendler was a devout Christian and one of the oldest members of St. Paul's Lutheran church. She was a devoted and loving wife and mother, a kind and obliging neighbor, a true friend, and was held in highest esteem by all who knew her. She will be missed most in the home circle by her children and other relatives who in their filial devotion recall her and her memory as blessed.

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WENTZ, ANTON/Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, Wednesday, January 4, 1893

Anton Wentz died unexpectedly Thursday [Dec. 29, 1892] at 12:45 P.M., after an illness of only a few days. The remains were taken to St. Louis Saturday on the Wabash train, in charge of J. P. Sehnert, Charles Heinrich and Charles Miller, members of the U.O.T.B.  The funeral took place Sunday afternoon from 2716 Utah street. Mr. Wentz was 38 years, 5 months and 14 days old. He has been a resident of this city for several years, acting as agent for the Anthony & Kuhn Brewing Co. He leaves a wife and four small children.

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WERTS, JOHN S./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 4, 1920

The death of John S. Werts occurred this morning at 2:35 o'clock at the family home on Main street. He had been ill with pneumonia only a few days. Mr. Werts was 64 years old April 28, and was born and had lived in Fosterburg until 28 years ago, when he came to Alton. He owned a grocery store on Staunton street until a year ago, when he sold it and moved to his new home on Main Street. He is survived by his wife, a son, Henry, a daughter Anna, two sisters, Mrs. Henry Gottlob of Archwood, Ia., Mrs. Elizabeth Clayton, and one half-brother, Abraham Hedge, both of Fosterburg. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at two o'clock from the home on Main street. Rev. C. Combrink of the Twelfth Street Presbyterian Church will have charge of the services. Burial will be in Oakwood cemetery. The Jr. O. U. A. M. will have charge of the services at the grave.

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WESSEL, ALBERT A./Source: Alton Telegraph, March 27, 1913

Albert A. Wessel, aged 25, "trouble" man for the Kinloch telephone company, was electrocuted in his home, 705 Milnor avenue, Monday night, on taking hold of the brass socket of an electric lamp. His wife witnessed the accident but was so unnerved by the accident that she was powerless to give any help and though her husband three times shouted to her to go back upstairs and throw off the switch, she could not get up the stairs. Mr. and Mrs. Wessel, who had been married but six months. Mr. Wessel went to the cellar for a bucket of coal, and his wife stood at the head of the stairs, waiting for him. In the cellar there was an extension lamp, and instead of an ordinary extension cord, ordinary insulated wire was used. The lamp could be carried into the far corner of the cellar, and hung up there to illuminate the far corner. Mr. Wessel had carried the lamp in, filled his coal buckets, got his kindling, and carried them back to the foot of the cellar stairs. Then he went back for the lamp. He was carrying it back to the stairway when his foot went into a pool of water, and, it is said, at the same instant the street car went around the curve, and the trolley and incandescent wires came in contact. Wessel received the full force of a deadly current. He shouted to his wife first to shut off the switch and told her not to touch him. In her excitement she fell down the stairs. Mrs. Wessel saw her husband's plight, and he shouted to her to run back upstairs and shut off the current. Twice more, while the terror stricken wife was attempting to climb the stairs, she heard her husband telling her to hurry. She says that she seemed to have no control over her legs. She stood almost helpless and she says she heard her husband fall. Then she ran, with all the speed she could, to the home of William R. Wilson, and called him. Mr. Wilson went over to render aid and when he got there, he found the electric current still on. He threw the switch, and then he went to the cellar, and found Mr. Wessel lying on the floor, his hand freed from the electric lamp, but the wiring and the socket were lying on the floor beside him. The conclusion was that in his struggles to free himself, Wessel had dragged the wiring from overhead, but even this failed to break his grasp on the electric socket, his muscles rendered tense in their contraction as the powerful current coursed through his nerves. Wessel was dead when Mr. Wilson reached him. Burned spots were on his right hand and right foot. According to Mr. Wilson, there were many complaints, Monday night, of excessive power in the electric lighting system. Whether it was due to lightning or to some crossing up of lines not known. The death of Wessel came about in exactly the same way as that of Mrs. Alvina Foulds, a sister of G. F. Crowe and Mrs. James Aldous, and it is the second instance of the kind in Alton in many years. Mr. Wessel was well known among the patrons of the Kinloch company, as it was his duty to investigate and repair all troubles on the telephones. He was an expert electrician. Dr. R. M. Luster arrived in Alton today to conduct the inquest in the death of Albert A. Wessel, the young man who was electrocuted Monday night in his home, 705 Milnor avenue. Relatives of Wessel arrived from his old home, New Haven, Mo., to assist in looking after the funeral plans. They were deeply interested in the death of the young man and it was decided to secure some aid in the way of eliciting all the possible information at the coroner's inquiry this afternoon. The taking of evidence was at the Jacoby Undertaking establishment, and a number of witnesses were called. The theory upon which the family are going is that the young man's death was due to improper hanging of the trolley and electric light wires in the neighborhood and it is claimed that the deadly current had been complained of before. However, the representatives of the Alton Gas & Electric Company claim that the trolley line voltage is not high enough to kill a man, and that the deadly current, as told last evening was transferred from the high tension line to the service line leading to the Wessel home, by means of a strand of baling wire which boys had thrown over the high tension wire and let hang down to the other wire.....The jury found a verdict that Wessel came to his death by being electrocuted from current furnished by the Alton Gas and Electric Co. No specific finding fixing the responsibility was made.  E. A. Wessel, of New Haven, Mo., a brother of Albert A. Wessel, has arrived here to look after the funeral arrangements of his brother. He brought with him an urgent request from the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. H. Wessel, of New Haven, that the body be sent back there for the funeral services and burial. To this the widow has refused so far to agree. It is being urged by the brother that his father is prostrated, and his mother ill, and that neither can come to Alton to attend the funeral, so it is desired that the body be taken to them.....He was a favorite of the couple, among their children, and they want the body. However the young wife can not bring herself to the point of giving her consent. Another conference will be held this evening to attempt reaching some conclusion about the funeral. There is no doubt that in Illinois the wife has the right to dictate what disposition shall be made of her husband's body.

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WEST, EDWARD M./Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, November 2, 1887/Submitted by Jane Denny                One of Edwardsville's Widely Known Citizens Dead.

Hon. Edward M. West, president of the banking firm of West & Prickett, and for over half a century identified with the interests of the city commercially, politically, educationally and socially, died on Monday, shortly after noon, at his residence, on St. Louis street. He had been unwell for several weeks but was not strictly confined to bed, and it was not believe that any serious results would follow. The immediate cause of death was heart disease. Edward Mitchell West, a native of Virginia, was born May 2, 1814, and would have reached the age of 74 years at his next birthday. His ancestors were English and were closely identified with the Revolutionary war. The numerous incidents related of the war made a strong and lasting impression upon the subject of this sketch. In 1818 he came west with his father, settling near Belleville, St. Clair county. In the early times of his childhood in southern Illinois there were no colleges, and had there been, he could not have attended them. He was always an earnest supporter of educational facilities and assisted in building the first school house in the county. He was emphatically, to a great degree, a self-educated and self- made man. When only a boy, twelve years of age, he was hoeing corn and doing other farm work, on his father's farm, in St. Clair county. The next year he went to Springfield, spending two years in the Recorder's office, recording all the deeds made in Sangamon county, during that time, in addition to which he rendered valuable aid to the postmaster, besides cultivating the garden of his employer. The year 1833 found him with a clerkship in the land office at Edwardsville, where he spent two years of his time working fourteen hours a day, at a salary of $12 per month. By strict economy he managed to lay by one-third of his salary and having gained a knowledge of book keeping, he opened a store in this city in the spring of 1835. By his persistent industry and application, soon established a reputation as a reliable and successful business man. By dint of perseverance, pleasing manners and fair dealing he rapidly built up the largest trade in town. There had been no bank in Edwardsville since 1824, and Mr. West recognizing the need of one, in connection with his son-in-law, Major W. R. Prickett, erected a handsome building in 1867, and established the banking house of West & pricket. This institution is among the first in the state, and Mr. West remained as its president to the time of his death. His face was a familiar one to all business men, and to all who had business connections with the bank. Notwithstanding his close application to business, he devoted much time to literary pursuits, and was well read. As an earnest student he had collected a fine library. In recognition of his literary attainments, Illinois College, the oldest in the state, conferred the degree of Master of Arts upon him. When the Illinois National Guard was formed he was commissioned Captain of the 15th Battalion, and acted in capacity of Chaplain until it ceased to exist. Politically, he was formerly a whig, but since that party has become extinct, he acted with the democratic party. In these affairs he always took an active interest, and many expressions of confidence were bestowed upon him. Being a candidate for office fifteen times, he with two excerptions, was elected. He was a member of the state constitutional convention in 1848, and took a very active part in the debates of that body. In this convention he drafted an article "On Counties," and as a member of the finance committee furthered the payment of the state debt. His ambition, however, has not been for political honor and distinction, but he rather preferred the pursuits of business and quiets of domestic life. He was an indefatigable business man and worker, and even in late years was regular and persistent in his devotion to the interest of the bank. His judgment seldom was at fault, and hence his advice was frequently sought. Both in public and private affairs he was not only generous, but unostentatious. For many years he has been an active and prominent member of the Methodist church, rendering aid in every form. He contributed very heavily to the maintaining and erection of St. John's church and other churches in the state. In fact, it is largely due to his beneficence that the debt on the M. E. Church is lifted. He was wedded to Miss Julia A. Atwood [Atwater], in 1835, in whom he found a worthy companion and loving wife for forty-two years. But three of his children reached their majority: Virginia, wife of Major W. R. Prickett; Mary, wife of Senator W. F. L. Hadley; and Norah L., wife of O.L. Taylor. Only two of his children survive him, the wife of Major Prickett having passed away thirteen years ago. Mr. West was again married in 1880, to Mrs. M. K. Mitchell of this city, who survives him. The funeral services, which will be conducted at the Methodist Episcopal church, will occur tomorrow morning, at 10 o'clock. The remains will be laid to rest in Woodlawn cemetery.
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WEST, JULIA A. [nee ATWATER]/Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, March 7, 1877/Submitted by Jane Denny

DIED – On the 3d Inst., in this city, Mrs. Julia A. West, wife of Hon. E. M. West, and daughter of the late Joshua Atwater. The funeral services took place at the resident on the 5th, in presence of a large audience of friends how had come to evidence their esteem for the memory of the departed. The services were conducted by Rev. F. A. Hoyt, of the M. E. church, assisted by Rev. Dr. Root [sic] of the Presbyterian church, and Rev. Jub. Hogan of St. Louis. From a paper read on the occasion by Judge H. K. Eaton, we get the following facts: Mrs. West was born near Collinsville, on the 5th of March, 1817, and has always lived in St. Clair and Madison counties, and at the time of her decease had probably lived longer in Edwardsville than anyone who ever resided in this city. Received into the M. E. church by Rev. Samuel H. Thompson, when ten years of age, she became one of the first class of that church in 1827, of which Rev. Richard Randle, now of Salem, Illinois, was the leader. She was the last surviving member of the twenty persons who formed that society. Knowing her intimately well for over forty years, I can say that I never knew a person of purer life than hers. She loved truth and practiced it as perfectly as can be done in human life, guided by a clear intellect, and aided by Divine wisdom and strength. For fifty years she was a christian in all that word means, uniform in her experience and settled in her convictions of Bible truth. Without pretense and peculiarly conscientious, she never said anything which her judgment did not approve, nor did anything that her conscience condemned. Never were parents blessed with a better child –a husband with a truer wife, or children with a more loving mother. All who came within her influence were impressed with the dignity and excellence of her character. For forty-two years she had made her home a place of holy joy to her family, and of welcome to her friends and acquaintances. All who knew her esteemed her, and they who knew her best loved her most. Although an invalid for two years, her sick chamber was the most cheerful room in the household. She suffered without complaining, and was cheerful and happy where many find cause of despondency and sorrow. Of ripe and cultivated intellect and discerning christian faith, she found sources of enjoyment and cause of hope and gratitude where many feel discouragement and sadness. Of nine children two survive her, and a husband who will never cense [sic] to love and cherish her memory as the richest treasure of life. The day, which would have completed the sixtieth year of her age, finds many loving friends gather to bear her from her pleasant home to her last resting place. While she leaves to the church in Edwardsville, of which she was a member for fifty years, the valued legacy of a holy and useful life, and to her family and friends the sweet memories of affection and benevolence, and rising to a higher and heavenly life, and joining many loved and kindred spirits, will enter that rest of joy and blessedness prepared for the faithful and the pure.
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WESTON, GERTRUDE (nee CANNELL)/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, March 20, 1919

Mrs. Gertrude Cannell Weston, wife of L. H. Weston, died this morning at 8 o'clock at St. Joseph's hospital where she was taken for treatment about noon yesterday. Mrs. Weston's death occurred in less than 24 hours after being removed from the home to the hospital. She had been suffering from diabetes during the past two years, but her case was not considered necessarily serious until lately. Finally she made up her mind to go to the hospital where she could be treated for the trouble from which she suffered, but her case had become very serious and she was in a very weak condition. Her death this morning comes as a surprise to her friends. Mrs. Weston was born in Alton and lived here all her life. She leaves her husband, L. H. Weston, and two sons, Horace and William Weston. She also leaves two brothers, Charles A. and Herbert Cannell, and one sister, Miss Eva Cannell. The body was removed from the hospital to the residence in Upper Alton this morning, but funeral arrangements were not complete. The Weston family moved to Upper Alton twelve years ago and lived several years in the E. C. James homestead at Amelia street and Washington avenue. From there they moved to the Dr. Robert Gibson place at College avenue and Humbert street, where they have resided for five years. The funeral will be held from the home.

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WETZEL, UNKNOWN/Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, February 19, 1897

Mrs. Henry Wetzel, wife of a prominent farmer living two miles from Alhambra, took her own life Wednesday morning [Feb. 17], between ten and eleven o'clock. She was found dead in her room at that time by a servant, who gave the alarm and summoned the assistance of neighbors. Death was due to strangulation, a stocking fastened from the head of her bed being used for that purpose. Coroner H. J. Bailey, of Alton, was notified and arrived about 11 o'clock Wednesday night. The verdict was suicide. Despondency, due to the recent death of her mother and illness is assigned as the cause of the act. Some time ago, Mrs. Wetzel scalded her arm badly, making a painful wound which prevented her attending the funeral of her mother, and this, in connection with her general state of health, made her very downhearted. She leaves a husband and several small children, the youngest under a year old.

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WHETZEL, LOUIS O./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, October 6, 1922           Man Who Helped Build Alton Bridge Dies

Louis O. Whetzel died at 11:40 o'clock last night, aged 62, after a long illness with Brights disease. He had been in bad health for about one year. The death of Mr. Whetzel had been expected for some time. Recently he was completely disabled after having returned to his place of duty on the draw span of the Alton Bridge. He had been employed on the bridge ever since work upon it was started, about 1891. He came here as labor foreman for the bridge contractor. When the bridge was finished, Mr. Whetzel was given the position of chief engineer on the draw span, in charge of turning the span for passing steamboats. He continued on that job without any interruption and was still carried as an employee of the company at the time of his death. He has the record of never losing a day's time except on rare occasions he would go away to attend some lodge gathering for a part of a day, and so rare were his absences it is said that he never missed a day's pay. Some time ago he was forced to take a layoff on account of bad health, but he managed to resume his duties until a few weeks ago when he was prostrated and he sank rapidly. Mr. Whetzel was born in Des Moines, Ia., July 6, 1860. He was the father of seven children, all of whom are living. His wife also survives him. The children are Louis Jr. of Springfield, Ill., Freeman of St. Louis; Robert, Paul, Perry, Ernest and Miss Mary Whetzel, all of Alton. He also leaves four grandchildren. Mr. Whetzel had been a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Junior Mechanics and the Masonic Order. Mr. Whetzel was a good citizen, a hard working man and he was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him. He was a good father and husband and respected by his neighbors. The time of the funeral will be announced later.

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WHITE, ANNA RACHAEL/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 29, 1921

Mrs. Anna Rachael White, aged 62 years, passed away this morning at 12:30 at the family home at 20 Elm Street after a lingering illness of two years, suffering from gall stones. During the past two years she has been confined to her bed most of the time. Two months ago she was taken seriously ill and had been unable to leave her room during that time. The deceased is survived by her husband, Douglas White, one daughter, Mrs. Hillopine Sprague of this city; two sons, Fred White of Michigan and Henry Borghen of Tennessee; and one brother, Henry William of Calhoun. Mrs. White's death was preceded by that of her granddaughter, Miss Bessie Sprague by several weeks. The funeral will be held Friday afternoon at two o'clock from the family home. The interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

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WHITE, D. C. (DR.)/Source: Items of Interest, A Monthly Magazine of Dental Art, Science & Literature, Volume XXV, 1903, page 637

WOODS, ELIZABETH/Source:  The Alton Daily Telegraph, November 29, 1889

Died - Woods - In this city, Thursday, a 4:30 p.m. Mrs. E. J. WOODS, mother of Mrs. J. W. FLINT, age 60 years.  The funeral will take place tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon at 7 p.m. from the Methodist parsonage. Friends and acquaintances are invited to attend.

Saturday Evening Telegraph, Alton, Illinois, Saturday evening, November 30, 1889
The funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth WOODS, mother of Mrs. J. W. FLINT, took place at 2 p.m. today from the Methodist parsonage, Sixth street, Rev. J. A. Scarritt officiating. Deceased was born in St. Clair Co. Ill. Sept. 2nd 1829. Died Nov. 28th 1889, so that she journeyed on earth a little more than an even three score years. The last decade of her life was passed in widowhood. Two children have preceded her to the spirit world. Two daughters and one son remain to mourn the loss of an affectionate and exemplary Christian mother. Her early religious life was passed in communion with the Cumberland Presbyterian church. Later she united, by removal, with the M. E. church , in which connection she remained, highly esteemed, until transferred to the upper fold. For many months she has been in poor health. In October she came to this city with the family of Rev. J. W. FLINT, and soon took her bed and patiently suffered. In readiness and longing for her change. Her daughter and family, though comparative strangers, have the deep and sincere sympathy of many friends.
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WOODSIDE, MATTHEW/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, Thursday, March 16, 1899

Mr. Matthew Woodside died at 6 o'clock last evening at the home of Mr. Charles Freeman, Twelth and Alby streets, with whose family he has lived for many years. Mr. Woodside has been sick all winter with the grippe, and was unable to withstand its debilitating effects on the system. He was a native of Scotland, and came to Alton in 1854. Since that time, he has resided in Alton, with the exception of a few years he lived in Missouri. Mr. Woodside was an employee of the C. & A. [rail]road for thirty years, serving the road in the capacity of car repairer until three years ago. In all his work he was faithful and was respected by all acquainted with him for his many good qualities. He was an Odd Fellow. The order will attend the funeral and conduct the services at the cemetery. Of his immediate relatives only a brother and sister survive him. The brother lives in Colorado. His wife died twenty years ago, and there were no children. The funeral will take place Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from Mr. Freeman's residence.

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WORDEN, JOHN C. (COLONEL)/Source: Edwardsville Intelligencer, Tuesday, February 12, 1895                            Village of Worden is named after him

Col. John C. Worden, after whom the village of Worden is named, had an apoplectic stroke Thursday afternoon at half past four o'clock, which terminated in his death Saturday morning [Feb. 9] at 11:30 o'clock. Col. Worden was born near Preston, Lancashire, England, June 24, 1834, and was at the time of his death 60 years, 7 months and 15 days old. He emigrated to the United States in 1848 and spent the following six years in the East. His first employment was on public works in Albany. A year later he apprenticed himself to learn the trade of blacksmith, and attended night school at Schenectady. His next occupation was boating on the Erie Canal. During the winter,  he attended Whitestown Seminary. He purchased a half interest in a canal boat and afterwards operated a brickyard, and finally in 1853 became clerk in a store in Mohawk, New York. During the winter that followed he taught school and in December 1854 came to Madison county where he was given a position as clerk in a general store owned by his aunt, Mrs. Elizabeth Sandbach. He was so well pleased with this country that he returned to England in 1856 and induced his mother to come here with him. He then taught school for several terms in the St. Louis and Moultonville, Illinois, public schools, after which he again entered his aunt's store. In July 1865, he purchased a store in New Hampton, which town was afterwards included in the corporation of the village of Worden, being named so in honor of Col. Worden. After a successful career in business he disposed of his stock in 1871 to accept the position of station agent for the Wabash railroad. This position he held until 1878, when he resigned and retired from the business. Col. Worden was well and favorably known throughout Madison county. To his public spirit and enterprise more than any other cause, is due the building up of the flourishing village which bears his name. He has repeatedly been honored with positions of trust by the people and always discharged his duties to the best interest of his constituents. In 1860 he was appointed deputy sheriff. For eleven years he was postmaster. He also filled the office of justice of the peace and school treasurer for several terms. Col. Worden was married November 26, 1867 to Miss Virginia J. Weaver, who died in September 1881, leaving a family of two sons and two daughters, Bernice, John P., George B., and Virginia E. The funeral occurred this afternoon from the M. E. South church, at Worden, and was largely attended. The services were conducted by Rev. R. F. Killgore, the Evangelist, who is holding revivals there. The deceased was a prominent Mason, a member of Staunton Lodge No. 177, under whose auspices the ceremony was conducted.

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WORTHEY, SARAH (nee PORTER)/Source: The Alton Telegraph, March 12, 1928/Date of Death: March 11, 1928
Mrs. Sarah Worthey, aged 59, died at the family home on Rodemeyer street, Alton, yesterday morning, Sunday, at 8:30 o'clock. Mrs. Worthey had been ill for the past six months. She was born in Elsah but had lived in Alton the last seven years. She leaves her husband, Harry; one daughter, Mrs. Peter Slover; three sons, Robert Segraves of St. Paul, Minn., Owen Segraves of Alton, Raymond Wise of Alton and seven grandchildren. Funeral services will be held from the Methodist church at Elsah, and burial will be in Elsah cemetery. Relatives and friends of Alton attending the funeral will leave in the morning on the Alton and Eastern train at 9:25 o'clock.

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WORTHEY, SINAH/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, November 26, 1921

Mrs. Sinah Worthy, wife of Harry Worthy, died this morning at 7 o'clock at the family home, 1215 Rodemeyer avenue, after an illness of eleven months from dropsy. Mrs. Worthy leaves beside her husband, two daughters, Rosetta and Addielee. She leaves also her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alex G. Richmond, one sister, Mrs. Prudence Schmidt, of Alton, and two brothers, Charles Richmond and Frank Smith. The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock from the First Baptist Church and after services there the body will be taken to Melville for burial.

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WREATH, JOHN S./Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, June 4, 1923                Youth Drowned While Bathing In Mississippi

John S. Wreath, aged 21, son of S. J. Wreath, of 1702 Hill street, was drowned yesterday while bathing in the Mississippi river a short distance from shore just above the pumping station of the Alton Water Co. His father, S. J. Wreath and a brother were looking on when the drowning occurred. They were on shore, fully dressed, and did not fully realize what was happening until it was too late to do anything toward rendering assistance. The young man had waded out from shore, still clad in his underclothes, when he seemed to be in trouble and began going down and reappearing. His arms were seen floundering above the water, even after he ceased to show his head. Help was procured and dragging started for the body, but there was no success. Capt. W. D. Fluent, who has a long record for recovering bodies of drowned people, was called into service, but after hours of dragging he failed to recover the body. Then dynamite charges were exploded without any success. The body is supposed to have floated away down stream after the drowning. The drowning occurred at the intake of the water works pumping station, and at first it was feared the body had been drawn into the intake, but investigation resulted in assurance being given that it was impossible for the body to have been swept in there by the suction of the pumps. The family moved here from Carlinville two months ago. The young man who lost his life was working at the Wood River refinery. There survive him his parents, Mr. and Mrs. S. J. Wreath; four sisters, Mrs. A. Ward of Carlinville, Misses Hazel, Fern and Irene Wreath of Alton; and two brothers, William and George Wreath.

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WUTZLER, AL/Source: Alton Telegraph, January 2, 1913

Al Wutzler, aged 40, died this morning at 11:20 o'clock at his residence, 638 Spring street, after a long illness with locomotor ataxia. Mr. Wutzler was taken very ill on Christmas day. He had long been suffering from a malady which he knew to be incurable, but he managed to be up and around and attended to his business affairs until Christmas day, when he was forced to give up. His condition became rapidly worse from that time until the end came Monday morning. Mr. Wutzler had been conducting the cigar store formerly owned by Mayor Faulstich on Second street, for some time. He was doing a prosperous business and was making a name for his brands of cigars. He was a member of a well known Alton family. His mother, Mrs. August Wutzler, lived with him. He leaves beside his wife and one child, one brother, H. A. Wutzler of Alton, and two sisters, Mrs. Emma Schumann and Mrs. Lena Johnson.

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WYMAN, RALPH EDGAR/Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, April 24, 1920

The funeral of Ralph Edgar, four months' old child of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Wyman, was held this afternoon from the home, 1123 Long avenue. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery.

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