John Henry Osterhaus

Obituary: Teutopolis Press - February 27, 1919

Green Creek Pioneer Dies

Henry Osterhaus, one of the oldest and longest settlers of Green Creek, died Monday evening at 7 o'clock at the age of 76 years, having been well prepared upon this his final journey to the eternal reward. During the last prevailing influenza epidemic here, the deceased had rendered necessary assistance, when all the members of his son's family were afflicted with this disease. However, upon their recovery, the deceased was obliged to seek medical attention and after an illness of several weeks, caused by gall trouble, the unexpected end came.

Henry Osterhaus was born July 15, 1842, on the same farm where he drew his last breath. His father, a Mr. Fischer and Mr. Darenkamp were the first settlers of Green Creek; On Oct. 27th, 1868, he was married to Marie Helena Dust who preceded the deceased, having died Aug. 8th, 1909. This union was blessed with five children as follows: Anna Marie, dead; Helena Elisabeth, dead; Johann, dead; Marie Josepha Knope of Noble, Arkansas and Henry F. who is now living on the old homestead.

Mr. Osterhaus, during his entire life, has been of a great assistance to the parish, helping in whatsoever a way that he, could. For several years it had been his duty on Saturday's and Monday's to drive three Franciscan Paters from Teutopolis to this respective mission viz. Green Creek, Sigel and Trowbridge.

The deceased served 25 years as Trustee of the parish and has been for 50 years a member of the St Joachim Maenner Verein and at the time of his death a member of the Third Order.

The funeral was held Wednesday morning at 9 o'clock. After the Requiem mass the corpse was buried in the Cemetery attended by a large host of relatives and friends who mourn his departure from their midst May he rest in peace.

Death Cause: Inflenza and gall bladder problems