Obituary

Jan. 18, 1906. Joseph Billick died this morning at 8:30 o'clock after an illness of many weeks, the last five of which were spent at the Axtell hospital. Everything that willing hands and the best medical attendance could do alleviate his suffering was rendered during his illness, but to no avail. Joseph Billick was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, March 27, 1836, where he lived with his parents until the death of his mother, which occurred when he was six years of age. He was deprived of his father at twelve years of age, going to live with his elder brother thereafter. At the age of seventeen years, he moved with his brother to Louisa county, Iowa, where he married to Margaret M. Riley November 7, 1870. In 1871, with his wife he took up his residence in Harvey county settling on a homestead three miles east of Newton. He underwent all the trials ans hardships of the pioneer settler bravely and steadfastly. About twenty-two years ago he sold his homestead and bought a farm five miles east of Newton, which he owned to the day of his death. Joseph Billick was a volunteer in the Second and later the Third Iowa Volunteer Infantry, serving from 1861 to 1865. He was a member of Judson Kilpatrick post. He is survived by three children, two sons and one daughter, Frank M., Elmer J., and Mrs. L. E. Fife all of this place, and by one sister, Mrs. William Crane, of Seattle, Washington. His wife preceded him to the better land six years ago and he often expressed himself as being lonely without her and hopeful of meeting her in the hereafter. Mr. Billick was one of the sturdy pioneers that have proven the bone and sinew of Harvey county. His rugged honesty, his fearless patriotism, and his upright citizenship made him an useful and helpful resident of the county. The funeral will be tomorrow afternoon at 2:30 o'clock in the Baptist church under the auspices of the G. A. R.The Newton Kansan.