May 1945

Joseph Elmer, son of Joseph T. and Malissa Kurtz, was born near Johnsonville, May 24, 1878. His life has been spent in the vicinity of his birth, where he was highly respected by a large circle of friends.

He was baptized March 5,1899 and became a member of the Brush Creek Branch of Latter Day Saints Church. He was interested and faithful in the work of the church and January 13, 1911, he was ordained to the office of priest in this congregation. In this position he rendered faithful service throughout his life.

He was united in marriage with Cora Ellis, October 22, 1899 Seven children were born to this union.

He has been in failing health for several weeks and entered peacefully into rest at his home in Zenith, Saturday night, May 12, 1945, age 66 years, 11 months and 18 days.

He is survived by his faithful companion, three sons, Edwin of St Louis; William of Zenith and Earl of Grayville; four daughters, Ethel Hoover  of East Alton; Mabel Battaglino of Forest Park; Nelle Van Derhagen of Orlando, Florida and Marjorie Galbraith of Xenia; one sister, Mary Ellis of Willis Point, Texas; a nephew, Roy A. Kurtz of Flora, who was reared in the home with him as a brother; twenty seven grandchildren, many other relatives and a large circle of friends who will mourn his passing.

Funeral services were conducted from the Brush Creek L.D.S. Church, Monday afternoon by Elder Lewis DeSelms. Interment was in the Harrell cemetery.